Product Photography & Studio Assistant

Hinkley is a fourth-generation, family-owned company with over 100 years of experience in creating stylish, innovative lighting. Our mission — Life Aglow — is centered on delivering meaningful experiences through exceptional design and lasting relationships.

We are seeking a Product Photography and Studio Assistant to support the Product Photographer by preparing products, equipment, and studio environments for high-quality imagery. This hybrid role involves unpacking, assembling, staging, and maintaining Hinkley fixtures for studio and on-location photo shoots, as well as assisting with showroom setup and product presentation at internal and external locations.

The ideal candidate will have mechanical aptitude, strong attention to detail, and adaptability, including the ability to creatively refine product presentation to ensure fixtures are photo-ready and aligned with design intent. This role requires working both independently and collaboratively in a deadline-driven environment, partnering closely with Photography, Marketing, Engineering, and Product Development teams.

• Unpack and assemble a variety of Hinkley fixtures in accordance with product instructions, ensuring products are represented accurately and at the highest quality standard.
• Stage and install fixtures according to photo shoot plans to ensure optimal functionality, lighting, and presentation.
• Disassemble, repack, and prepare fixtures for transport, storage, or return.
• Troubleshoot product assembly or setup challenges and implement creative adjustments to ensure fixtures are photo-ready and function as intended for photography or video.
• Provide hands-on support during photo shoots by adjusting products, props, and lighting as directed by the Product Photographer.
• Collaborate with the Product Development team to coordinate sample scheduling, availability, and readiness for photography.
• Identify, document, and report fixture assembly, functionality, or quality issues to Engineering and Product Development teams.
• Maintain organization and cleanliness of the photo studio and related work areas.
• Travel to Hinkley showrooms as part of the setup team to assemble and hang products, update pricing tags, move fixtures, and support showroom refreshes.
• Support additional photography, showroom, marketing and/or Product Development related projects as needed.

• Estimated travel (on-location photo shoots, trade show set up, etc.), up to 10%.

• High school diploma or equivalent (GED) required.

• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude with the ability to assemble, construct, or build items accurately.
• Experience with basic product styling, set building, or hands-on assembly preferred.
• Prior experience assisting with studio or on-location photo shoots is a plus.
• Experience handling delicate or intricate components with care.
• Prior experience with material handling, warehouse, or product movement activities preferred; forklift certification or experience operating material handling equipment is a plus but not required.

• Strong visual and aesthetic judgment with the ability to identify imperfections or inconsistencies that detract from high-end decorative products.
• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude, manual dexterity, and care in handling, assembling, and maintaining fixtures or product setups.
• Resourceful, solutions-oriented, and adaptable, with the ability to troubleshoot issues, shift priorities, and problem-solve in dynamic studio and production environments.
• Proven ability to follow instructions accurately and consistently, with the ability and willingness to anticipate and support operational needs of the Product Photographer.
• Excellent time management and organizational skills
• Strong communication skills and ability to work cross-functionally with photographers and project partners.
• Positive, collaborative attitude with openness to feedback and a willingness to support evolving project needs.

• Works in showroom,…