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Photo Stylist Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Production Associate Intern/Volunteer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

As a Production assistant you will have a variety of responsibilities throughout the semester. Our ... photo shoot production, including sourcing locations, permitting, booking stylist/hair/makeup ...

Photo Stylist Assistant information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$11

$22

$34

How much do photo stylist assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for photo stylist assistant in Chicago, IL is $22.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a photo stylist assistant do?

A Photo Stylist Assistant supports the lead photo stylist in preparing and arranging props, wardrobe, and backgrounds for photo shoots. Their responsibilities may include sourcing items, setting up and breaking down sets, organizing products, and ensuring everything looks visually appealing according to the creative vision. They often help with steaming clothes, keeping track of inventory, and assisting with any on-set adjustments during shoots. This role is essential for making sure the shoot runs smoothly and that the final images meet the desired aesthetic.

What are some common challenges faced by a photo stylist assistant, and how can they be overcome?

As a Photo Stylist Assistant, you may encounter challenges such as working under tight deadlines, managing multiple props or wardrobe items, and adapting to sudden creative changes during a shoot. Staying organized, communicating clearly with the lead stylist and photographers, and remaining flexible are key to overcoming these hurdles. Building strong problem-solving skills and maintaining a positive, proactive attitude will also help you thrive in this fast-paced, collaborative environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a photo stylist assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Photo Stylist Assistant, you need a good eye for detail, basic understanding of design principles, and often a degree or coursework in fashion, art, or photography. Familiarity with styling kits, sourcing tools, and photo studio equipment is commonly required. Strong organizational skills, adaptability, and effective communication are essential soft skills for supporting lead stylists and working with creative teams. These abilities ensure smooth photoshoots, cohesive visuals, and contribute to the overall success of creative projects.

What is the difference between Photo Stylist Assistant vs Photo Stylist?

AspectPhoto Stylist AssistantPhoto Stylist
CredentialsMinimal, often on-the-job trainingMore experience, possibly specialized training
Work EnvironmentAssists in studio or on locationLeads styling, manages wardrobe and props
ResponsibilitiesSupports styling tasks, organizes wardrobeCreates and executes styling concepts
Industry UsageEntry-level support roleSenior support or lead role in styling

The main difference between a Photo Stylist Assistant and a Photo Stylist is experience and responsibility level. The assistant supports the stylist with organizational and preparatory tasks, while the stylist takes charge of creating and executing the overall styling concept. Both roles are essential in the photography industry, with the assistant serving as a support role to help ensure a smooth workflow.

What are the most commonly searched types of Photo Stylist jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Photo Stylist jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Photo Stylist Assistant job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,441 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Production Associate Intern/Volunteer

The Aparecio Foundation, NFP

Chicago, IL

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Full-time, Part-time, Internship

Re-posted 10 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.