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Portrait Artist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CADY

Studio Makeup Associate

Franklin, TN

$19/hr

Free annual family portrait session * Referral bonus program * Paid learning and development ... We are seeking highly motivated Makeup Artists with outstanding client service skills and a strong ...

CADY

Studio Makeup Associate

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$23.25/hr

Free annual family portrait session * Referral bonus program * Paid learning and development ... We are seeking highly motivated Makeup Artists with outstanding client service skills and a strong ...

CADY

Studio Makeup Associate

San Jose, CA

$23.25/hr

Free annual family portrait session * Referral bonus program * Paid learning and development ... We are seeking highly motivated Makeup Artists with outstanding client service skills and a strong ...

CADY

Studio Makeup Associate

Horsham, PA · On-site

$21/hr

Free annual family portrait session * Referral bonus program * Paid learning and development ... We are seeking highly motivated Makeup Artists with outstanding client service skills and a strong ...

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 ...

Jaizai Investment Inc

Lead Photographer

Matthews, NC · On-site

$45K/yr

... 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.

Jaizai Investment Inc

Lead Photographer

Matthews, NC · On-site

$45K/yr

... 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 - Metro

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$14/hr

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.

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How much do portrait artist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 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 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.

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.

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Portrait Artist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Portrait Artist job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 15% Full Time, 76% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 7% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,496 per year, or $21.9 per hour.
Studio Makeup Associate

Studio Makeup Associate

CADY

Franklin, TN

$19/hr

Part-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Who is CADY?

CADY is the premier school photography company. We exist to inspire and unleash human potential. Through innovation, creativity, and exceptional service, we create memorable experiences that help people feel confident, celebrated, and empowered. We inspire students, schools, and our team members so they feel accepted and empowered. Your story starts with CADY!

CADY Perks 

  • Weekly pay
  • Flexible scheduling
  • Career advancement with opportunities for promotion
  • Annual review with merit opportunity
  • Free professional headshots
  • Free annual family portrait session
  • Referral bonus program 
  • Paid learning and development through CADY University
  • Fun, active and Instagram-worthy studio environment 
  • Team member recognition and rewards programs
  • Employee assistance programs to support your health and well-being

Job Summary

Join our team in delivering an exceptional photography session preparation experience for every client. We are seeking highly motivated Makeup Artists with outstanding client service skills and a strong attention to detail. Our positive work environment and vibrant culture are essential to our studio’s success and reputation. This role plays a key part in creating a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere while contributing to a collaborative and high-performing team.


 

Essential Job Functions

  • Execute makeup and basic hairstyling services for a diverse range of students, ensuring an inclusive and personalized experience
  • Ensure all makeup and/or hair is camera-ready before and throughout each student’s session
  • Work efficiently in a fast-paced, time-sensitive environment while maintaining high-quality standards
  • Make real-time adjustments to makeup and hair based on lighting, photography needs, and client preferences
  • Maintain strict hygiene and sanitation standards for all tools, products, and dressing areas
  • Build and maintain strong client relationships by establishing trust and rapport through professional and genuine interactions
  • Assist with studio operations, including check-in, check-out, and wardrobe support, as needed

Job Requirements

  • Must be at least 18 years of age
  • High school diploma or equivalent required
  • Ability to pass a satisfactory background check
  • Professional makeup artistry experience preferred, but not required


 

Physical Requirements and Environmental Factors

  • Ability to remain stationary for extended periods of time
  • Ability to stand and move continuously for up to 6+ hours, both indoors and outdoors as needed
  • Ability to communicate effectively with customers and team members
  • Comfortable working in a high-energy environment with noise and sensory stimuli (e.g., camera flashes, music, and large crowds)
  • Ability to lift and move up to 20 pounds
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About CADY

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Photography services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Alpharetta, GA, US

Year founded

1986

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