Studio Manager/Photo Operations
Job Title: Studio Manager (Salary range: $120k-$140k)
Location: Seattle, WA (hybrid)
Client: NY-based fashion brand (Seattle office)
About Vicarious: At Vicarious, we're redefining staffing by prioritizing our creatives. Our innovative candidate-forward model ensures higher pay rates and eligibility for benefits.
Role Overview: Job Title: Studio Manager, Photo Operations
Location: Seattle, WA (on-site only)
Department: Marketing
Reports To: Senior Director, Creative
Direct Reports: Photographers, Photo Retoucher, Video Editor, Production Assistant, Merchandise Coordinator
The Seattle office of a NY-based fashion brand is seeking a Studio Manager to lead its in-house photo and video production operations. This person will oversee a multi-disciplinary creative team and be responsible for all aspects of studio production—from managing resources and timelines to ensuring every asset aligns with brand standards. This is a highly collaborative, hands-on leadership role that demands expertise in photo production, operational excellence, and team development.
The ideal candidate is a seasoned production lead with deep experience in managing high-volume, multi-brand shoots and studio operations. You’ll work closely with internal creative, merchandising, and leadership teams, as well as external partners, to bring visually compelling campaigns to life. This is a full-time, on-site role (Monday through Friday) based in Seattle.
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Key Responsibilities:
Lead the day-to-day operations of the in-house production studio.
Coach and develop team members with clear, actionable feedback to maintain high performance and consistent creative output.
Manage procurement and maintenance of all studio equipment and supplies.
Improve internal production workflows and implement efficiencies as the business evolves.
Collaborate with internal creative leadership to align studio execution with broader brand vision.
Build a positive and inclusive studio culture focused on quality, accountability, and support.
Oversee the full lifecycle of photo and video production—from intake and scheduling to final delivery.
Coordinate logistics and staffing for in-studio and on-location shoots.
Own seasonal shoot calendars and direct support teams through execution.
Act as the primary point of contact for cross-functional teams and external vendors.
Handle all production logistics including permits, insurance, location planning, and safety requirements.
Manage production budgets, hiring freelance talent, and ensuring cost efficiency across projects.
Guide and support contract staff, ensuring clarity of roles and responsibilities.
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Requirements and Qualifications:
5+ years of experience managing photo studios and production operations, ideally in an e-commerce or high-volume environment.
Advanced knowledge of product and marketing photography workflows and standards.
Expert understanding of photography, with a demonstrated ability to support varied brand aesthetics.
Strong organizational and leadership skills, with the ability to manage fast-paced schedules without compromising quality.
Proven experience translating creative strategy into operational plans and team execution.
Deep knowledge of the Seattle production ecosystem and vendor landscape.
Experienced in managing budgets, negotiating contracts, and working with freelance teams.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Strong multi-tasking, time management, and problem-solving abilities.
Comfortable working cross-functionally and incorporating feedback from multiple stakeholders.
Passionate about developing talent and maintaining a collaborative, performance-driven culture.
Vicarious is an equal-opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
