Freelance Set Designer Stylist

Freelance Set Designer

Location: Madison, WI (In-person)
Type: Freelance
Industry: Fashion E-commerce Photography

About the Opportunity

We're seeking a creative and resourceful Set Designer/Stylist to support high-volume fashion photography production for leading e-commerce brands. This role offers hands-on experience building innovative sets and sourcing props that bring fashion imagery to life in a fast-paced studio environment.

What You'll Do

Design and build creative sets for fashion photography shoots, translating concepts into compelling visual environments

Source and manage props within budget constraints while maintaining high aesthetic standards

Collaborate with photographers, producers, and creative teams to execute seasonal creative briefs

Construct custom set pieces using various materials, paint mediums, and woodworking techniques

Maintain organized documentation of props, builds, and materials in shared systems

Adapt quickly to changing priorities and creative direction in a dynamic production environment

Ensure all sets are camera-ready and optimized for specific crop ratios and design templates

Maintain studio spaces, tools, and equipment with emphasis on safety

Required Qualifications

2-3+ years of relevant experience in set design, styling, or related creative work

Portfolio demonstrating ability to translate creative concepts into physical set designs

Experience with power tools, painting techniques, and basic carpentry/woodworking

Strong attention to detail and understanding of how visual elements contribute to overall composition

Ability to work efficiently and frugally while maintaining creative quality

Excellent communication and collaboration skills

Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment with shifting priorities

Physical ability to lift up to 40 pounds regularly

Valid driver's license and willingness to use personal vehicle for prop sourcing

Preferred Qualifications

Background, experience, or degree in: Theater Design, Scenic Design, Fine Arts, Fashion Design, Carpentry, Visual Communications, or related fields. 

Experience in high-volume commercial photography studios

Proficiency with design tools (Figma, Adobe Creative Suite, Miro, Capture One)

3D design software experience

Knowledge of interior design trends and fashion aesthetics

Experience managing budgets and resources

What Makes You Successful

Creative problem-solving: You can execute innovative designs efficiently and within budget

Adaptability: You thrive when priorities shift and can pivot quickly

Collaboration: You work well with cross-functional creative teams

Attention to detail: You understand that every element matters in the final image

Technical skills: You're comfortable with tools, materials, and construction techniques

Initiative: You anticipate needs and proactively solve problems

To Apply

Please submit:

Resume or CV

Portfolio showcasing set design, styling, or related creative work 

Brief description of your experience with tools, materials, and creative processes

We encourage applications emerging professionals and students in theater design, scenic design, fine arts, fashion design, visual communications, construction management, building construction technology, carpentry, and related programs. Relevant coursework and student production experience will be considered.