Samantha Xu

Samantha Xu is a seasoned visual media professional with extensive experience in photo editing and production. Currently serving as Deputy Photo Director at Billboard since 2014, Xu is responsible for conceptualizing and executing diverse photo shoots that include covers, features, and portfolios across multiple platforms. Prior roles include Photo Editor at Hearst Digital, where Xu managed photo shoots and content for various brands, and Associate Photo Editor at Future US, overseeing photo edits for multiple music publications. Xu began the career as an Assistant Photo Editor at Entertainment Weekly. Holding a B.S. in Journalism with a focus on Photojournalism from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Xu has established a strong foundation in visual storytelling and collaboration within the industry.