Tips for Photography Assistants

by nickhamilton | Jul 17, 2009 |

The best way to really learn about Professional Photography is assisting, learning first hand on a job is priceless. Kevin Zacher is one of the most successful photographers in the world, and has always been a big advocate of using assistants for all his shoots. I saw this post on Kevin Zacher’s Blog a while back and just wanted to pass the word

he actually got it from another big Photographers blog so I guess it’s doing the rounds as such, anyway read on it’s good insight:

“I stole this info from Nick Onken’s Blog ( great blog btw). I just wanted to spread the word. I’m generally very easy to work for. I won’t yell at you and I respect you and the value you bring as an assistant photographer. But I do get frustrated with poor assisting. A lot of photography grads don’t have much of a clue on how to assist or the unspoken rules on a shoot. Photographers don’t have time to worry about the assistant.

The job will be 100 x more enjoyable if everyone is on the same page and your photographer feels comfortable in your skills and confident you have his back!

Hope to see you on the next job!

The number of assistants on a job depends on the size and technicality of the job. On bigger sets, the hierarchy starts with the first assistant who runs the set technically for the photographer. He/She must know have a vast knowledge of how to light, set up equipment, and have a good amount of on set experience. They will manage the rest of the assistants. That’s where starting out as a 3rd or 4th assistant is a good place to learn.

Here are a few things I expect from my assistants:

1. Know your role! This is probably the most important. The assistant’s primary job is to take care of the photography related technical aspects of a job so the photographer can focus on the creative and client relations aspect.

2. Do NOT push your own agenda. This is a good way to get yourself kicked straight off of a set. You are there FOR the photographer. Never talk to clients, especially about your own work. It’s very poor etiquette.

3. A good attitude. I can’t begin to tell you how far a good attitude goes. A good attitude to learn, and serve the photographer is extremely valuable. A photographer should not be questioned when they ask something of an assistant.

4. A positive attitude- Goes hand in hand in hand with a Good attitude, but a bit different. Sets can be stressful. A lot of times, the photographer is put under stress from the client. For me, an assistant with a positive attitude that can help me relax is a definite bonus. I want my sets to be positive and fun, and to be surrounded with a crew that add to that vibe.

5. Punctuality. BE ON TIME! Better yet, be early. Make the proper decisions to be able to make it to set on time.

6. Just ask! If you can’t figure it out, ASK. I’d rather you ask what you think is a dumb question(but usually isn’t), then make a mistake that costs money. I am more than happy to teach.

7. Attentiveness. be attentive to the photographer. Anticipate their move, have things ready before they need it.

Depending on the job, most of the times for me assisting isn’t too difficult a task. It’s a very laid back environment, and lighting is minimal. These are some of the things I like from assistants. Everyone photographer is different.

Above all, be willing to sweep the floors to learn and get in. Help a photographer out on a portfolio shoot, and if he likes you he/she may be more willing to hire you for the paid jobs.

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