ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Portrait Artist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ripley Entertainment Inc

Theme/Prop Artist

Orlando, FL · On-site

Duties and skills may include: -Creating wax and resin figures. -Wax figure paint artist. -Figure Finish -Portrait Painter - Repairing/restoring of exhibits. -Theming props for galleries. -Ensuring ...

Tri-C

Art Model - Metro

Cleveland, OH · On-site

SUMMARY Sustains nude and clothed professional portrait poses for art students to observe anatomy and structure to compose artistic drawings and/or paintings. ESSENTIALFUNCTIONS * Sustains a variety ...

Tri-C

Art Model - East

Warrensville Heights, OH · On-site

SUMMARY Sustains nude and clothed professional portrait poses for art students to observe anatomy and structure to compose artistic drawings and/or paintings. ESSENTIALFUNCTIONS * Sustains a variety ...

Tri-C

Art Model - West

Parma, OH · On-site

SUMMARY Sustains nude and clothed professional portrait poses for art students to observe anatomy and structure to compose artistic drawings and/or paintings. ESSENTIALFUNCTIONS * Sustains a variety ...

Nuovo Photography

Studio Hostess - SOHO

New York, NY · On-site

$15.25 - $20.50/hr

Access to Nuovo's services and products, ensuring you, too, can experience the power of portraiture. We also provide you with a 50% Family & Friends discount. About Us: Nuovo Artistic Studios is not ...

Jaizai Investment Inc

Lead Photographer

Matthews, NC · On-site

... event, portrait, and fine art photography. The Lead Photographer will collaborate closely with ... Bachelor's degree in Photography, Visual Arts, or a related field. * Minimum of 5 years of ...

Tri-C

Art Model - West

Parma, OH · On-site

Work in studio art classes based on need SUMMARY Sustains nude and clothed professional portrait poses for art students to observe anatomy and structure to compose artistic drawings and/or paintings.

Tri-C

Adjunct Faculty, Art (2D)

Westlake, OH · On-site

$951/wk

Department: Creative Arts Location: College-Wide Reports To: Associate Dean Recruitment Type ... or Portrait Drawing & Painting. * Prepares and delivers learning activities in order to achieve ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPortrait Artist Jobs

Portrait Artist information

See salary details

$7

$21

$71

How much do portrait artist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for portrait artist in the United States is $21.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.98 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a portrait artist?

A portrait artist is a professional who specializes in creating artistic representations of people, capturing their likeness, personality, and mood. They use various mediums such as oil paints, charcoal, pencil, or digital tools to produce portraits from life, photographs, or imagination. Portrait artists often receive commissions for personal, family, or official portraits and may work independently or for art studios. Their work can be found in galleries, museums, private collections, and public spaces.

How do portrait artists typically collaborate with clients to ensure satisfaction with commissioned work?

Portrait artists often begin by consulting with clients to discuss their vision, preferences, and the intended purpose of the portrait. This may involve reviewing reference photos, agreeing on pose, style, and medium, and clarifying expectations regarding timelines and revisions. Throughout the process, artists usually share preliminary sketches or progress updates, inviting feedback to make adjustments before finalizing the piece. Clear communication and a collaborative approach help ensure the finished portrait aligns with the client’s wishes and results in a positive experience for both parties.

What is the 80/20 rule for artists?

For portrait artists, the 80/20 rule suggests that approximately 80% of their results come from 20% of their efforts, such as focusing on mastering key techniques or building a strong portfolio. Prioritizing high-impact activities can improve efficiency and client satisfaction in their work process.

How do you become a portrait artist?

To become a portrait artist, you typically develop drawing and painting skills through formal education, such as art school or workshops, and build a portfolio of work. Gaining experience by practicing regularly, understanding anatomy, and learning to work with various mediums and tools are essential steps in establishing a career in portrait art.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Portrait Artist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Portrait Artist, you need strong drawing and painting skills, a solid understanding of anatomy, color theory, and art composition, often developed through formal art education or extensive practice. Familiarity with traditional media (such as oils, acrylics, charcoal) and digital tools like Adobe Photoshop or Procreate is increasingly important in the field. Creativity, attention to detail, and effective client communication help artists capture likeness and personality while managing commissions. These skills are vital for producing compelling, marketable artwork and maintaining successful client relationships.

How much money do portrait artists make?

Portrait artists' earnings vary widely based on experience, reputation, and client base. On average, they can earn from $20,000 to over $100,000 annually, with highly skilled artists charging higher rates for custom, high-quality work. Many work freelance, setting their own prices and schedules.

What is the highest paid art career?

Among art careers, fine art painters and sculptors who achieve high sales or work with prestigious galleries tend to earn the most, with top professionals earning six or even seven figures annually. Commercial artists, such as those working in advertising or design, can also earn high salaries, especially with experience and specialization in digital tools like Adobe Creative Suite.

What Is a Portrait Artist?

A portrait artist is a professional artist who specializes in creating paintings or taking photographs of a person or group of people. You either work as an artist that sells your pieces in galleries, or a commissioned portrait artist that works for a client. As a commissioned portrait artist, your duties include meeting with the client to discuss their desires for the portrait and having them sit for a painting or photograph. Your responsibility is to cater to their needs and produce a portrait the client is happy with, as opposed to focusing on your artistic expression. However, if you instead work to sell your pieces in fine art galleries, you may have complete creative control. You must have above average skills in your discipline, but formal education is not required. Portrait artists generally work for themselves, but photographers can find work with portrait companies.

What is the difference between Portrait Artist vs Portrait Photographer?

AspectPortrait ArtistPortrait Photographer
CredentialsArtistic training, portfolioPhotography skills, camera proficiency
Work EnvironmentStudios, art galleries, clients' homesStudios, outdoor locations, events
Industry UsageFine art, commissions, galleriesCommercial, personal, event photography

While both Portrait Artists and Portrait Photographers create images of individuals, Portrait Artists focus on hand-drawn or painted portraits often emphasizing artistic interpretation. Portrait Photographers capture images using cameras, emphasizing technical skills and lighting. The choice depends on whether you prefer traditional art or modern photography, but both roles require a keen eye for capturing personality and character.

More about Portrait Artist jobs
What cities are hiring for Portrait Artist jobs? Cities with the most Portrait Artist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Portrait Artist jobs? The most popular types of Portrait Artist jobs are:
What states have the most Portrait Artist jobs? States with the most job openings for Portrait Artist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Portrait Artist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Portrait Artist jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Portrait Artist jobs? For Portrait Artist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Portrait Artist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Portrait Artist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,496 per year, or $21.9 per hour.
(Part-Time) Studio Portrait Photographer

(Part-Time) Studio Portrait Photographer

Vita Brevis Fine Art

Colorado Springs, CO • On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Part-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description



Are you an experienced and talented photographer with a passion for creating timeless studio portraits? Discover an extraordinary opportunity to shine as a Studio Portrait Photographer at Vita Brevis Fine Art, a prestigious photography studio dedicated to capturing life's most cherished moments.


Who We Are

At Vita Brevis Fine Art, we pride ourselves on producing high-quality, studio-based family and fairy portraits that become treasured heirlooms. Located in the vibrant Colorado Springs community, our studio upholds a tradition of excellence and an unwavering commitment to artistic innovation. Our environment fosters creativity, collaboration, and continuous growth, making it the perfect place for seasoned professionals seeking a fulfilling career.


Your Role as a Studio Portrait Photographer

You will be instrumental in crafting exquisite images and working alongside a passionate team in our Colorado Springs studio. Your responsibilities will include:


  • Creating exceptional legacy family and fairy portraits that meet Vita Brevis Fine Art quality standards.
  • Utilizing advanced technical skills to operate studio camera systems, lighting, and post-production software.
  • Delivering superior client service by working harmoniously with adults, children, and pets, ensuring a delightful studio experience.
  • Contributing to a dynamic team environment focused on artistic achievements and studio operational excellence.
  • Participating in product development and providing creative input to enhance our artistic offerings.


What We Offer

Our commitment to your success and well-being includes:

  • PT Schedule (Sunday and Monday 8 am to 6:30 pm)
  • A competitive compensation package of $22-$25/hour, DOE, including a monthly bonus and weekly pay.
  • Comprehensive benefits such as 401K Matching, paid time off, and more.
  • Opportunities for professional development and engagement in creative projects.
  • A supportive, pet-friendly workplace that values diversity, inclusion, and team spirit.
  • In-Office Position - NOT REMOTE


Are You the Perfect Fit?

We're searching for candidates with:

  • 5-8+ years of professional portrait photography experience.
  • An upbeat attitude and outstanding communication skills.
  • Proficiency in advanced lighting techniques, post-production tools, and studio management.
  • A commitment to maintaining high technical and artistic standards.
  • Willingness to embrace constructive feedback and adapt to studio processes.


Join Us in Making Magic!

If you're ready to contribute your expertise and creativity to a renowned studio dedicated to elevating portrait art, we invite you to apply today. Become an integral part of Vita Brevis Fine Art, where every employee is a cherished member of our creative family. Transform lives through the art of photography and make every picture a masterpiece.