As a photographer, many of us started out as an assistant, working under other photographers: setting up lights, carrying camera bags, the list goes on. I’ve gathered some tips that I’d like to share that will help you succeed as an assistant. Some through experience, others by having to make mistakes, regardless, using these tips, you’ll become a stronger asset to your photographer’s team.
Be punctual.
On the day of a photo shoot, it is essential that you show up on time. There’s always things that can go off schedule or obstacles, and you have to be there to take care of business. The photographer, can’t be stressing, trying to locate you because you’re not there when you’re supposed to be. Being punctual will make everyones life easier and confirm you as being reliable.
Dress appropriate.
When shooting with clients, always dress the part. A typical dress code for me while on a shoot is khakis and collared shirt. If its a big client, dress shoes, but this is a gray area because you’re on your feet all day. I like to dress in shoes that I know are comfortable. If you’re running around a lot or on-location outside in the mountains, don’t wear loafers. Use your head. Same with clothes, if the shoots taking place in the mountains where its cold, jeans are probably ok, and if you have any concerns, ask the photographer what the appropriate attire is.
Always carry a notepad.
As I mentioned, while on shoots, things can go wrong, you forget something, equipment breaks, you need to run an errand. Having a notepad handy will make your job easier because you can WRITE THINGS DOWN, and won’t forget. Making lists will allow you to check things off as you go along, and allow you to double check that everything has been taken care of. Trust me, you don’t want the responsibility of remembering to take the camera batteries off the charger, only to forget them. These kinds of setbacks can be very costly to a shoot, especially if its an on-location shoot. So write things down, double check, and you will be a lot less stressed.
There’s always something to do.
Eventhough your lights are set up, the camera is ready to rock ‘n roll, you can still find other things that can be done. On location? You can organize the workspace, neatly stack strobe cases and camera bags, tape down extension cords, even hang softbox cases on the light stands. Any simple tasks that will help you pack your gear faster when the shoot is done. These simple little tasks will minimize accidents and show you are a hard worker. When you’re in front of clients, the last thing you want is to be sitting around messing with your iPod or reading a magazine. I made this mistake as a “youngster”, trust me, this does not bode well with your employer.
Always think two steps ahead.
If you’ve been working with a photographer over a period of time, you’re probably getting more comfortable with his routines, how he prepares for a shoot, even what settings they may use constantly. (Keep in mind, not all photographers are comfortable with you changing camera settings, some prefer to do it themselves.) Consider these instances, if you’re setting up strobes and you know the photographer is going to meter, make sure you have it handy so they don’t have to ask for it. Or, you’ve been shooting for a good amount of frames and you think the card may be getting full, have them in your back pocket, or ask how the memory is looking. Just use your head, if you know the photographer is going to need something, don’t wait for them to ask, have the gear ready where its easily accessible so you don’t have to go looking for it. Small details like these will keep your shoot running smootly, without frustration and save you time.
Keep your mouth shut.
If there;s an issue that needs to be addressed go about it in the most professional way. You never want to make a scene or draw attention to yourself, attention should always be on the photos. Even if you’re not getting along with someone on the shoot, take the high road. Not to say this tip is only if you have something negative to say. Just remember, you never want to say anything in front of the client that can potential embarrass or make the photographer look bad. If you do, there’s a good chance it will be the last time you work with that photographer, or you will get an ear full after the shoot is a done. Not to mention, in the photo community most photographer know each other, and word travels fast. If you do something stupid , you can bet word will get around to other photographers which can hurt your chances of a working with anyone else in the area.
Leave the art to the art director.
When you’re in the middle of shooting and the photographer and art director are discussing a shot, listen to them because it will probably involve moving a light or grabbing an apple box; but don’t throw in suggestions about how the shot could be framed or changed (different light setup, lens, wardrobe, get the the idea). Even if you have good ideas, by adding your input, you could potentially be adding a new shot to the shoot, which can put it over time and over budget. This is a big no no. So if do have a suggestion, pull the photographer aside and say something to him, but don’t just outburst because it can cause some problems, even if your intentions are good. Only give opinions if you are asked for them. As the assistant, your job is to set up lights and make sure everything is in line to make the shoot go as smoothly as possible, you’re not paid to talk. When you’re shooting and have your own clients, that is the time to state your expertise.
The clients product is always the best.
Even if you’re casually talking over lunch or discussing the shoot beforehand, always remember, the client is coming to you to advertise and help sell their product. Because they have hired you, their product is the best there is. For example, if you’re shooting an ad campaign for Coca-Cola, that’s your favorite soda in production. Even if you prefer the taste of Pepsi, as long as you’re working for Coke, it is the last product on earth. If you’re out to lunch during the shoot, you drink Coke products or water. May not seem like a big deal, but you don’t want to work for a client and give them any reason to think you don’t believe in their product.
These are just a few quick items that I listed off. There are always more to add, in fact, if you think I’ve left something off, feel free to comment! Next time you’re on a photo shoot or dealing with a client, keep these in mind and you’ll have more success in the future.
my email address is on my portfolio site, http://www.shawntakesfotos.com if you’d like to email me, i’d be more than happy to help you with any questions you have. thanks!