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Freelance Costume Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Weissman

Freelance Digitech

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$61 - $69/hr

... costumes and dancewear. From digital sketch to delivered product, we handle every step in-house ... We've cultivated a talent base skilled in merchandising, marketing, design, and more, constantly ...

Weissman

Freelance Photo Assistant

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$61 - $69/hr

... costumes and dancewear. From digital sketch to delivered product, we handle every step in-house ... We've cultivated a talent base skilled in merchandising, marketing, design, and more, constantly ...

Weissman

Freelance Production Artist

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

... costumes and dancewear. From digital sketch to delivered product, we handle every step in-house ... We've cultivated a talent base skilled in merchandising, marketing, design, and more, constantly ...

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Freelance Costume Design information

See salary details

$14

$47

$132

How much do freelance costume design jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance costume design in the United States is $47.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $61.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Freelance Costume Design vs Costume Designer?

AspectFreelance Costume DesignCostume Designer
CredentialsPortfolio, experience, sometimes formal trainingPortfolio, experience, formal education often preferred
Work EnvironmentSelf-employed, project-based, flexible scheduleEmployed by production companies, studios, or theaters
Industry UsageUsed across film, theater, TV, fashionPrimarily in film, theater, TV productions
Search & Comparison IntentLooking for freelance opportunities or independent workSeeking full-time or contract employment in productions

Freelance Costume Designers work independently on various projects, offering flexibility and diverse opportunities. Costume Designers are typically employed by production companies or studios, focusing on specific projects with a team. Both roles require similar skills and experience, but differ mainly in employment structure and work environment.

What is freelance costume design?

Freelance costume design involves creating and assembling costumes for theatrical productions, films, television, events, or private clients on a project-by-project basis, rather than as a full-time staff member. Freelance costume designers are responsible for conceptualizing costume ideas, sourcing or making garments, and ensuring costumes fit the creative vision and practical needs of the production. They often work closely with directors, actors, and other designers, managing budgets and timelines while maintaining creative flexibility. This role requires a mix of artistic talent, technical skills, and business acumen to succeed independently.

What are some common challenges freelance costume designers face when managing multiple projects simultaneously?

Freelance costume designers often juggle several projects at once, which can present challenges in time management, communication, and resource allocation. Balancing deadlines for different clients, ensuring clear communication about creative direction, and sourcing materials within tight budgets are all typical hurdles. Staying organized with project timelines and maintaining strong relationships with suppliers and collaborators can help alleviate these challenges. Many freelance designers use project management tools and maintain detailed schedules to keep everything on track.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance costume designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Costume Designer, you need strong skills in fashion design, garment construction, and fabric knowledge, often supported by a degree in costume or fashion design. Familiarity with digital design tools like Adobe Creative Suite, sewing machines, and pattern-making software is essential. Creativity, excellent communication, and time management set standout designers apart when collaborating with directors and clients. These skills ensure visually impactful costumes delivered on deadline, enabling successful storytelling in theater, film, or events.

What cities are hiring for Freelance Costume Design jobs?

Cities with the most Freelance Costume Design job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Costume Design jobs?

The most popular types of Costume Design jobs are:

What states have the most Freelance Costume Design jobs?

States with the most job openings for Freelance Costume Design jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Freelance Costume Design jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Costume Design jobs are:

Freelance Costume Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Costume Design job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $99,230 per year, or $47.7 per hour.

Freelance Digitech

Weissman

Saint Louis, MO • On-site

$61 - $69/hr

Contractor

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Description
ABOUT US
At Weissman, located in St. Louis, Missouri, we've been the heartbeat of the dance community for 60 incredible years. As a privately held, medium-sized company, we're not just another manufacturer - we're the driving force behind the dance industry's most stunning costumes and dancewear. From digital sketch to delivered product, we handle every step in-house, infusing passion and expertise into every creation.
What drives us? Our extraordinary team! We've cultivated a talent base skilled in merchandising, marketing, design, and more, constantly investing in our people, products, and technology to stay ahead.
Why collaborate with us? At Weissman, independent contractors are valued contributors to our mission of empowering performances and elevating the artistry of dance. We seek passionate, skilled professionals who want to make an impact in a dynamic, creative industry-on their terms.
If you're ready to unleash your creativity, be part of something bigger, and make an impact in an exciting, dynamic industry, Weissman is the place for you. Come, let's dance towards a future where dreams take center stage.
JOB TITLE
Freelance Digitech
LOCATION
St. Louis, Missouri (On-Site)
ENGAGEMENT TYPE
1099 Independent Contractor
JOB SUMMARY
Weissman is seeking a Freelance Digitech to join our dynamic photo studio team during live shoots. This role ensures a seamless digital workflow from capture to backup, supporting photographers and art directors with technical expertise and precision. The Digitech keeps shoots running smoothly by managing tethered capture, monitoring image quality, and safeguarding files so that every shot is sharp, accurate, and production-ready.
The ideal candidate thrives in fast-paced studio environments, brings advanced knowledge of Capture One, and has strong technical troubleshooting skills. With an eye for detail and a passion for digital photography workflows, the Digitech plays a crucial role in making sure our creative vision is executed flawlessly and on schedule.
RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Manage on-set software and hardware, including Capture One, Shotflow, and Adobe tools
  • Troubleshoot technical issues during capture to minimize downtime
  • Oversee digital capture and maintain image quality throughout shoots
  • Organize and name files correctly in Capture One for smooth post-production
  • Support accurate color and exposure adjustments on set
  • Tether cameras for real-time image review and feedback
  • Prepare selects for client and internal review during or after shoots
  • Assist photographers with set prep, breakdown, and equipment handling
  • Coordinate closely with photographers and art directors to meet creative needs
  • Perform file backups, ensuring image integrity and multiple device redundancy

QUALIFICATIONS
Education
Bachelor's degree in Photography, Digital Media, or related field preferred
Experience
  • Proven on-set Digitech experience in commercial, editorial, or e-commerce environments
  • Strong proficiency with Capture One Pro and Adobe Photoshop
  • Experience with professional camera systems (Canon, Phase One, Nikon, Sony) and studio lighting setups

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Advanced understanding of digital photography workflows and color management
  • Familiarity with monitor calibration and color consistency standards
  • Comfortable with file backup protocols, RAID systems, and external storage solutions
  • Strong troubleshooting skills for hardware, software, and connectivity issues
  • Excellent organizational and communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively
  • Must be comfortable working around children ages 3-17

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