What makes a good assistant?

[j_pritchard]

I am currently a photo student with at least another couple years in college. When I'm out, however, I am interested in getting a job as a photo assistant. An *ideal* job would be for someone like Richard Avedon or Annie Leibovitz. I don't necessarily intend to be a portrait photographer, but I am very interested in observing the ways that a master interacts and works with their subjects. I believe that working with one of these sorts of photographers would give me the most opportunities at having this sort of experience.

My question is, what kind of things does a pro look for when selecting an assistant? I currently assist a photographer based in my town -- mostly shuffling slides around and sending out some photos, but ussually 3 hours or less per week. I don't think that I could take on any substantial assisting position at this point, but what other sorts of "resume builders" would be good?

J Pritchard

[ToddHornsby]

After spending 7 years in a career I did not enjoy, I decided to turn my photography hobby into a career. I got a gig assisting a local commercial photographer. We do lots of location shoots and some studio work. I've asked him the same question. The main thing he wants is someone that understands the way he works, will take extra special care of his equipment, and lend a hand where ever it is needed, most of all he needs someone that cares about his business. It seems that he also values my opinion regarding shots.

I guarantee that trying to be an assistant for some of the more prominent photographers will be a much harder gig to get. If you are in it for the experience and you are going to turn that experience into a solid photographer career for yourself, I would suggest finding someone you can create a working relationship where you are involved with the whole process. Shuffling slides and being the gopher will not do it. I think it takes assisting someone that is willing to let you be part of the whole process for you to grow for your own career. I also think the local guys are the best, especially if you conjure up a relationship where he wants you to succeed.

The biggest minus I've heard is the assistants that start resenting being an assistant and would rather be out shooting for themselves really grate the photographer's nerves, as well as being a less reliable and conscientious assistant. I've let the guy I work for know that I have no intention of being one of those. I explained I consider our working together an informal partnership, and he seemed to really like that approach. In fact, he let down his guard a good bit after I said that. It seems he had so much experience with the resentful assistant that he had created a wall between him and others involved.

Overall, use your ambition and willingness to learn and work to your advantage with who ever you assist for and you will be a success.