Freelance Photo Assistant / Studio Assistant – Fashion & Beauty

Job Title: Freelance Photo Assistant / Studio Assistant – Fashion & Beauty
Company: Slate Studios
Location: New York, NY (On-Site / Project-Based)

Slate Studios is a leading creative production studio based in New York, specializing in luxury fashion, beauty, e-commerce, and content campaigns. We work with top brands and creative talent to produce elevated visual content across photo and video.

We are currently expanding our freelance roster and are looking for skilled Photo Assistants / Studio Assistants who thrive in fast-paced, high-end shoot environments.

As a Freelance Photo Assistant / Studio Assistant, you will support photographers, producers, and studio operations on shoot days. This role is hands-on and ideal for someone who understands professional photography setups, lighting equipment, and studio workflows — and loves being on set.

On-Set Support

• Assist photographers with lighting, grip, and camera equipment

• Help set up lighting, stands, modifiers, and backdrops

• Maintain a clean and efficient set environment

• Support talent, stylists, and glam teams as needed

Studio Prep & Maintenance

• Prep studio before shoots (equipment checks, set build, product organization)

• Manage equipment organization and ensure safe handling

• Assist with product steaming, steaming garments, arranging props, and general studio tasks

Production Support

• Assist producers and crew with load-in / load-out

• Run errands when needed (pickups, returns, supplies)

• Help maintain shoot timing and operational flow

Digital Team Support (as needed)

• Assist digital tech with tethering setups and workstation organization
  (experience not required but a plus)

Location

• Based in NYC with ability to work on-site

Experience

• Prior studio or on-set assisting experience (fashion/beauty preferred)

Skills & Knowledge

• Familiarity with lighting (Profoto preferred), grip equipment, tethering basics

• Ability to safely lift, move, and set equipment

• Strong organization, communication, and time-management skills

• Comfortable taking direction and working on fast-paced sets

Personal Attributes

• Professional, punctual, and dependable

• Positive attitude team-first mindset

• Detail-oriented and proactive

• Problem-solver who stays calm under pressure

• Capture One knowledge

• Studio maintenance / inventory background

• E-commerce or campaign set experience

• Basic retouching knowledge (not required)

• Project-based / day-rate (commensurate with experience)

• Work with top-tier fashion and beauty brands

• Gain experience in a high-end production studio

• Opportunities for consistent freelance bookings

Please submit:

• Resume

• Brief note about your experience availability

• Any portfolio / IG / website (optional)

Applications via our submission form only — email applications are not being accepted at this time.