Hair and Makeup Artist / Studio Assistant (Per Diem) – Portrait Studio

I am a portrait photographer based in Elmira, NY, seeking a hair and makeup artist to support in-studio portrait sessions inside The Legacy Room.

The studio is currently in its early stages, with a full studio experience launching soon. I am looking for someone who would like to grow alongside it.

This is a calm, guided, and experience-focused environment. Sessions are one-on-one and intentionally paced, with a strong focus on helping clients feel comfortable, confident, and taken care of from the moment they arrive.

This role goes beyond hair and makeup. You will also provide light studio support to help maintain a smooth, elevated client experience.

Responsibilities

• Provide hair and makeup services for portrait clients
• Prepare clients in a calm and welcoming environment
• Offer light touch-ups during sessions when needed
• Maintain a clean, sanitary, and organized workspace
• Assist with light studio support, including:
• Adjusting reflectors or simple lighting
• Helping guide clients into position when needed
• Resetting the space between looks
• Assisting with small wardrobe or detail adjustments

*

• Communicate clearly regarding availability and scheduling

Qualifications

• Experience with hair styling and/or makeup application
• Ability to create soft, natural, and photography-ready looks
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to make clients feel comfortable
• Reliable, professional, and organized
• Portfolio or examples of previous work preferred

Requirements

• Must have your own professional hair and/or makeup kit
• Must maintain proper sanitation and hygiene standards
• Reliable transportation to and from Elmira, NY
• Products suitable for a range of skin tones and photography-ready finishes

Availability

• Must be available primarily for weekday morning sessions
• Each booking requires approximately 3 hours on-site (hair, makeup, and light touch-up support)
• Occasional weekend availability is a plus but not required

Work Environment

• In-studio sessions located in Elmira, NY
• Low-volume, appointment-based scheduling
• One-on-one client experience
• Calm, intentional, and guided session flow

Who This Role Is Best For

• Someone who enjoys working in a slower, more intentional environment
• Someone who values client experience, not just the final look
• Someone interested in growing with a developing studio

How to Apply

Please submit:

• A brief introduction
• Your experience with hair and/or makeup
• A portfolio or examples of your work
• Your general availability

Closing

This role is part of building an elevated portrait experience where clients feel comfortable, confident, and cared for. I’m looking for someone who aligns with that approach and is excited to grow with the studio as it opens and expands.

Job Type: Contract

Pay: $200.00 per day

Application Question(s):

• Do you currently hold a valid New York State cosmetology or esthetics license?

Work Location: In person