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Photo Assistant Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Production Associate Intern/Volunteer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

... * Assist with daily staff meetings to coordinate creative-department projects and manage and organize workflow * Producer Requirements: Manage all aspects of photo and video production including:

Showing results 21-40

Photo Assistant information

See Illinois salary details

$12

$18

$28

How much do photo assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for photo assistant in Illinois is $18.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a photo assistant?

Photo assistants are professionals who help photographers during photo shoots by setting up equipment, managing lighting, organizing props, and ensuring that everything runs smoothly on set. Their responsibilities can also include handling digital files, maintaining gear, and assisting with post-shoot breakdown. Photo assistants play a crucial role in supporting photographers so that they can focus on capturing the best possible images. This role is often an entry point for those looking to gain experience and build a career in photography.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a photo assistant?

To thrive as a Photo Assistant, you need a solid understanding of photography principles, lighting techniques, and basic camera operations, often supported by coursework or hands-on experience. Familiarity with studio equipment, photo editing software like Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom, and digital asset management systems is typically required. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate clearly and take direction are standout soft skills. These abilities ensure smooth photo shoots, efficient workflow, and effective support for photographers in achieving creative objectives.

What are some common challenges faced by a photo assistant during on-location shoots?

As a Photo Assistant on location, you may encounter challenges such as managing unpredictable lighting conditions, handling heavy or delicate equipment, and adapting quickly to changing environments. You’ll often need to anticipate the photographer’s needs, problem-solve on the spot, and ensure that all gear is transported and set up safely. Being proactive, communicative, and organized is key to overcoming these challenges and supporting a smooth, successful shoot.

What is the difference between Photo Assistant vs Photo Assistant?

AspectPhoto Assistant

Since the comparison is with itself, the main differences often lie in experience level or specialization. Typically, a Photo Assistant supports photographers by handling equipment, setting up shoots, and assisting during photo sessions. They usually require basic photography knowledge, technical skills, and familiarity with studio or on-location environments. The role is common in commercial, fashion, and portrait photography industries. Both entry-level and experienced assistants are called Photo Assistants, but experience and specific skills can vary.

What are the most commonly searched types of Photo jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Photo jobs in Illinois are:

What job categories do people searching Photo Assistant jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Photo Assistant jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Photo Assistant jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Photo Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Photo Assistant job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,515 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

Production Associate Intern/Volunteer

The Aparecio Foundation, NFP

Chicago, IL • On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Full-time, Part-time, Internship

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Company Description

Felix is a luxury lifestyle magazine currently serving Chicago, Los Angeles and New York. The pages of this glossy publication cover the latest trends in fashion, fine dining, nightlife, arts and culture. Featuring ultra luxe fashion profiles, restaurants, and the season's must-have accessories from the world's top writers and stylists.

Luxe Media, LLC and Felix Magazine are the marketing names of The Aparecio Foundation, NFP ("TAF"). Luxe Media, LLC. is committed to developing a fun and productive work culture that is conducive to positive results! 
We offer a uniquely open environment that demands initiative and imagination from every single team member that are heard, tested, and genuinely empowered to lead by example and create lasting impacts on our organization, its programs, and the community.  This is an unpaid internship/volunteer opportunity.  

Job Description

As a Production assistant you will have a variety of responsibilities throughout the semester. Our  team is looking for bright and innovative intern .
Primary responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • Develop and manage production timelines and budgets for creative projects; ongoing evaluation of

adherence to budgeted time and cost constraints for sold ad programs, which could include-
Serve as liaison between Creative Communications and sales, marketing, edit, ad ops, and external vendors

  • Assist with daily staff meetings to coordinate creative-department projects and manage and organize

workflow

  • Producer Requirements


Manage all aspects of photo and video production including: Castings (models and real people)
Sourcing new hair/makeup/wardrobe/set design talent
Maintaining a diverse pool of photography and videography talent
Running pre-production meetings internally and with clients
Coordinating with PR/Management teams of celebrities
Organize shot lists and shoot schedules to ensure shoots ended on time and under budget
Scout studios, locations, and local production teams in NYC, LA, Chicago.
Handle all aspects of photo shoot production, including sourcing locations, permitting, booking stylist/hair/makeup, executing contracts, creating call sheets, managing process on set, etc.
Oversee the day-to-day workflow of Photo Department to ensure deadlines are being met. Assign and
divide web research assignments and review before submitting to editors.

Qualifications

A passion for women's economic opportunities
Must be a full or part-time practicing professional
Have relevant consumer magazine and online experience
Have extensive photo research and photo production experience and a strong visual and creative sensibility
Be enthusiastic and team oriented, but also able to work independently
Have excellent communication and organizational skills
Work effectively on several projects simultaneously and under tight deadlines
Must be able to commit to 2-3 days a week for 3 months
Comfortable with ambiguity and able to work autonomously
Experience working in a studio setting
Flexible; ability to adapt to changing priorities and multiple tasks
Ability, and willingness, to adhere to verbal direction and creative critique
Proficiency in collaboration and/or problem-solving during photo shoots
Ability to take initiative and must have the confidence to learn in a "live" environment.
Must be reliable with excellent organizational skills and very strong attention to detail.
Ability to work well with a team
Integrity, honesty, openness and a willingness to operate as a team player

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.