Emma Highfield
Minneapolis,MN
Summary
Stylist, creative director, and photographer with a proven ability to lead and execute full-scale visual projects from concept to completion. Skilled in developing strong creative direction, curating wardrobe and aesthetics, and capturing imagery that aligns with brand vision. Brings a collaborative approach and a sharp editorial eye to every project.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
Work History
Lead Stylist
Buttercup Magazine
Minneapolis
09.2025 - Current
- Led styling direction for editorial shoots, ensuring cohesive looks.
- Negotiated rental terms and organized quick-return logistics to keep critical pieces available.
- Collaborated with photographers and editors to achieve cohesive visual storytelling.
Freelance Stylist
Self Employed Services
Minneapolis, MN
06.2025 - Current
- Collaborated with clients to identify fashion preferences and create tailored looks.
- Developed social media content to promote services and engage potential clients.
- Established strong relationships with vendors to ensure product availability.
- Maintained knowledge of fashion trends and industry news, ensuring relevant styling for clients.
Photography Assistant
David Sherman Photography
Minneapolis
06.2025 - Current
- Supported lead photographer during high-pressure moments by anticipating gear needs and managing minor adjustments.
- Sets up and calibrates lighting modifiers to achieve a consistent look across shots, producing reliable footage for post-production.
- Develops streamlined staging routines for frequent locations.
- Collaborates on creative problem-solving for complex shots, proposing alternative angles or rigging approaches that expand visual possibilities.
Freelance Photographer
Self Employed Web
Minneapolis, MN
01.2024 - Current
- Captured high-quality images for various clients, ensuring alignment with their vision.
- Collaborated with clients to conceptualize creative themes and narratives for photo shoots.
- Leveraged social media platforms to showcase work, expanding client base.
- Planned and prepared for on-location and studio shoots.
- Developed strong relationships with clients through clear communication.
Photo Lab Specialist
Photo King
Minneapolis
06.2024 - 04.2026
- Managed daily photo lab operations, ensuring accurate prints and on-time order fulfillment with measurable quality improvements and faster turnaround.
- Developed and operated 35mm film processing workflows.
- Managed workflow in photo lab, enhancing efficiency of print production processes.
Creative Photographer
Align Magazine
Eugene
09.2024 - 06.2025
- Produced editorial photography for Align Magazine, delivering photo spreads that increased reader engagement.
- Directed studio and on-location shoots, improving shoot efficiency.
- Collaborated with editors and designers to align visuals with editorial goals, producing consistent magazine-wide visuals.
- Managed image post-production workflows, ensuring color accuracy and print-ready files that met publication deadlines.
Movement Instructor
Escalate Dance and Theatre Company
Minneapolis
01.2020 - 06.2024
- Led weekly movement classes for students and company members, improving technique and performance outcomes.
- Designed progression-based curricula that produced measurable performance improvements over multi-month terms.
- Coached individual performers to overcome technical challenges, resulting in clearer choreography execution.
Education
Bachelors - Creative Advertising
University of Oregon
Eugene, Oregon06.2025
Liberal Arts
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
Minneapolis, Minnesota06.2022
General Diploma - undefined
Wayzata High School
Wayzata, Minnesota06.2021
Skills
- Creative Direction
- Visual Storytelling
- Photography Techniques
- Social Media Strategy
- Color Theory
- Art Direction
- Fashion Styling
- Brand Positioning
- Creative Problem Solving
- Concept Development
- Creative Collaboration
- Styling Techniques
- Trend Spotting
- Creative vision
Timeline
Lead Stylist
Buttercup Magazine
09.2025 - Current
Freelance Stylist
Self Employed Services
06.2025 - Current
Photography Assistant
David Sherman Photography
06.2025 - Current
Creative Photographer
Align Magazine
09.2024 - 06.2025
Photo Lab Specialist
Photo King
06.2024 - 04.2026
Freelance Photographer
Self Employed Web
01.2024 - Current
Movement Instructor
Escalate Dance and Theatre Company
01.2020 - 06.2024
Liberal Arts
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
General Diploma - undefined
Wayzata High School
Bachelors - Creative Advertising
University of Oregon