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Photo Studio Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Photo Studio Assistant information

See Iowa salary details

$8

$15

$22

How much do photo studio assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for photo studio assistant in Iowa is $15.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.21 and $18.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a photo studio assistant?

Photo Studio Assistants are professionals who support photographers and studio managers in the day-to-day operations of a photography studio. Their responsibilities typically include setting up equipment, organizing props and backdrops, assisting with lighting, maintaining the studio space, and helping during photo shoots. They may also handle administrative tasks such as scheduling and communicating with clients. This role is essential for ensuring that photo shoots run smoothly and efficiently.

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

To thrive as a Photo Studio Assistant, you need a good understanding of photography basics, lighting techniques, and equipment handling, often supported by prior studio experience or relevant coursework. Familiarity with camera systems, studio lighting setups, and photo editing software like Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom is typically required. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate clearly with photographers and clients are important soft skills. These competencies ensure smooth studio operations, high-quality shoots, and effective teamwork in a fast-paced creative environment.

What are some common challenges faced by photo studio assistants, and how can they be effectively managed?

Photo Studio Assistants frequently encounter challenges such as managing tight schedules, handling multiple tasks simultaneously, and adapting to last-minute changes during shoots. To effectively manage these challenges, strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize tasks are essential. Clear communication with photographers and team members can help anticipate needs and minimize disruptions, while staying adaptable ensures smooth studio operations even when unexpected issues arise.

What is the difference between Photo Studio Assistant vs Photography Assistant?

AspectPhoto Studio AssistantPhotography Assistant
CredentialsBasic photography knowledge, sometimes certificationsSimilar credentials, often with more emphasis on technical skills
Work EnvironmentPhoto studios, retail stores, event setupsOn-location shoots, studios, events
Employer & IndustryPhotography studios, retail outlets, commercial settingsPhotographers, media companies, event organizers
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While both roles support photographers, a Photo Studio Assistant primarily works within a studio setting, handling equipment, setup, and client assistance. A Photography Assistant often works on location or at events, assisting with lighting, equipment, and logistics. The roles overlap in skills and environment but differ mainly in scope and setting.

What are popular job titles related to Photo Studio Assistant jobs in Iowa?

For Photo Studio Assistant jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Photo Studio Assistant jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Photo Studio Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Photo Studio Assistant job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,223 per year, or $15.5 per hour.

Media Production Specialist I

Iowa State University

Ames, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Iowa State University rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

388th of 628 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Title:
Media Production Specialist I
Job Group:
Professional & Scientific
Required Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree
Job Description:
Summary of Duties and Responsibilities:
The Student Innovation Center is seeking qualified candidates for a Media Production Specialist I to support media production services, technical operations, and user engagement within the Digital Media Studio.
The Digital Media Studio provides access to media production and editing facilities, including audio and video production equipment, photography equipment, studio lighting, audiovisual technologies, Mac and PC workstations, green screen technology, media storage systems, and industry standard software such as Adobe Creative Cloud, Pro Tools, and DaVinci Resolve.
The Media Production Specialist I will help create an engaging and welcoming environment while supporting safe, hands on learning experiences for students, faculty, staff, and community users.
Key Responsibilities
  • Create, edit, and maintain video, audio, photography, and other digital media content.
  • Provide technical support and guidance to users of the Digital Media Studio.
  • Assist with developing and delivering workshops, training sessions, and demonstrations.
  • Support users with media production, content creation, and editing software applications.
  • Operate, maintain, troubleshoot, and monitor media production equipment and technologies.
  • Manage equipment inventories, supplies, and studio resources.
  • Create graphics, animations, screen recordings, and other digital assets to support educational and promotional initiatives.
  • Capture photo and video content at Student Innovation Center events and activities.
  • Assist with outreach efforts, open houses, workshops, and special events that promote innovation, entrepreneurship, and experiential learning.
  • Support building operations and assist with training and supervising student employees as needed.

The successful candidate will demonstrate strong communication, customer service, and organizational skills; possess the ability to learn and apply media production technologies and processes; and work effectively in a collaborative environment. The individual should enjoy working with students and maintain the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and ethical conduct.
Additional Information
Schedule is Wednesday through Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., with 30 minute breaks at noon and 5:30 p.m.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience with videography, photography, video editing, and/or audio editing.
  • Experience providing customer service and technical support to users.
  • Experience operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting media production equipment and software.
  • Experience working with or supervising student employees.

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.
Application Instructions:
To apply for this position, please click on "Apply" and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:
Resume/Curriculum Vitae
Letter of Application/Cover Letter
Why Choose Iowa State University?
Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental, as well as:
  • Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
  • Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans
  • Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
  • Life insurance and long-term disability
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Various voluntary benefits and discounts
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Wellbeing program

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu, or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.
Appointment Type:
Regular
Number of Months Employed Per Year:
12 Month Work Period
Time Type:
Full time
Pay Grade:
PS806
Original Posting Date:
August 18, 2026
Posting Close Date:
September 1, 2026
Job Requisition Number:
R19783
Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email eooffice@iastate.edu.
General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.

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