1

Freelance Lighting Design Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Our thoughtful craftsmanship, timeless design, and spirited stories inspire our customers to live ... lighting and grip * Utilizing audio equipment for voice overs when applicable * Leading freelance ...

New

Our thoughtful craftsmanship, timeless design, and spirited stories inspire our customers to live ... lighting and grip * Utilizing audio equipment for voice overs when applicable * Leading freelance ...

Freelance Lighting Design information

See Michigan salary details

$12

$41

$115

How much do freelance lighting design jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance lighting design in Michigan is $41.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.15 and $53.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance lighting design?

A Freelance Lighting Design job involves designing and implementing lighting for various projects, such as theater productions, concerts, events, architecture, and film. Freelance lighting designers work independently, collaborating with clients to create visually effective and functional lighting setups. They handle tasks like selecting equipment, programming lighting effects, and ensuring proper illumination. This role requires technical knowledge, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Freelancers often manage their own schedules, finances, and client relationships.

What skills and qualifications are needed for freelance lighting design?

Excelling as a Freelance Lighting Designer requires a deep understanding of lighting principles, color theory, and the technical aspects of lighting systems, often supported by a degree in lighting design, theater production, or a related field. Proficiency with industry-standard design software such as AutoCAD, Vectorworks, or Lightwright, as well as familiarity with DMX lighting consoles, is typically necessary. Outstanding communication, creativity, and project management skills help freelancers collaborate effectively with clients, directors, and production teams. These capabilities are vital for delivering visually impactful and professionally executed lighting solutions that meet creative and logistical demands.

What are common challenges faced by freelance lighting designers, and how can they be managed?

Freelance lighting designers often encounter challenges such as tight project timelines, coordinating with multiple production teams, and adapting to varied budgets and technical setups. To manage these effectively, it is important to maintain strong organizational and communication skills, build a reliable network of industry contacts, and stay updated with evolving lighting technology. Flexibility and proactive problem-solving are crucial when working independently, as each project may require different creative and technical approaches. By continuously honing your design skills and managing client expectations, you can build a strong reputation and enjoy a diverse range of opportunities in the field.

What job categories do people searching Freelance Lighting Design jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Lighting Design jobs in Michigan are:

Infographic showing various Freelance Lighting Design job openings in Michigan 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 $86,489 per year, or $41.6 per hour.

Senior Videographer

Shinola

Detroit, MI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

ABOUT US

At Shinola, we make beautiful, enduring, handcrafted goods that are built to be lived in, worn out, and well-loved. Our thoughtful craftsmanship, timeless design, and spirited stories inspire our customers to live well, with confidence & joy-in a style that is uniquely their own! Because we are a growing and evolving company, each employee is a key stakeholder, making decisions every day that directly impact our overall vision and direction. At Shinola, you'll have the opportunity to make a significant contribution at the start of what we believe will become an iconic American brand.  

ABOUT THE ROLE

As our Senior Videographer, you will lead the development of Shinola's video tone. You will play a key role in capturing, editing, and producing high-quality video content that aligns with Shinola's vision and core messaging. You will be responsible for both the technical and creative aspects of production - shooting high-quality footage, editing videos, and ensuring that all content aligns with the brands aesthetic and goals.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Pre-Production

  • Collaborating with Art Director, creative and marketing teams on concepts for campaign, product, social, and brand videos.
  • Refining story boards and scripts with creative team/Art Director.
  • Creating shot lists and schedules in collaboration with creative project manager.
  • Scouting locations, talent, weather and lighting pre shoot.

Cinematography

  • Executing video assets for campaigns, ecommerce, and social media.
  • Camera operations
  • Set lighting and grip
  • Utilizing audio equipment for voice overs when applicable
  • Leading freelance staff on set
  • Collaborating with freelance agencies on larger brand videos

Post-Production - Video Editing

  • Execution and delivery of final video assets: offloading footage, color correction, sound, first assembly, rough cut, final cut, delivery and archiving final assets.
  • Adhering to a script and timeline
  • Conception of scripts and timelines when applicable
  • Organizing assets for approval
  • Video sizing and output formats

Video Enhancement

  • Makes corrections/improvements to lighting, coloring and stabilization of footage
  • Adds effects such a graphics or transitions to enhance footage
  • Inputs sound enhancements through music selection and voice-overs
  • Crafts cohesive visual stories and messaging across multiple mediums (digital, social, etc)
  • Utilizes emerging technology and trends in visual content creation to enhance brand storytelling and guest connection

General Maintenance & Administration 

  • Organizing and cataloging final video assets on the creative server.
  • Organization and storage of working files.
  • Partners with the Art Director to make recommendations for equipment purchases, upgrades, or replacements based on inventory.
  • Oversees inventory and orders supplies.
  • Maintains, repairs, services, and installs basic video production equipment.
  • Can support with operation of equipment including cameras, editing console, time base correctors, audio board, and video switcher.
  • Provides frequent updates on the completion of tasks to ensure deliverables are met
  • Files footage in the appropriate locations and creates backups when necessary
  • Attends key meetings with partners to present final deliverable to ensure the vision of the client is being met
  • Supports with the arrangement of sets and lighting to capture professional video.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Post-secondary degree in film or related field OR relevant experience to prove ability to perform described duties required.
  • Experience working with an in-house creative team
  • Proficiency in adobe creative suite, motion graphics, editing software programs
  • Ability to use basic video production equipment.
  • Thorough understanding of artistic styles, techniques, methodologies, and effects used within video production.
  • Knowledge of studio photography and light setup
  • Experience in color grading, audio recording and editing

At Shinola, we're committed to growing and empowering an inclusive community within our company and industry. This is why we hire and cultivate diverse teams of the best and brightest from all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives across our organization. Research shows that oftentimes women and other minority groups only apply to open roles if they meet 100% of the listed criteria. Shinola encourages everyone to apply for our available positions, even if they don't necessarily check every box on the job description.  

Note: This job description is not meant to be all-inclusive. You may be required to perform other duties to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.