Photography Assistant

Company Description

Wandering Seaman Photography started out much like any other studio; after spending a number of years as a hobbyist, I merged my love for the art with my passion for working with and helping people. With a keen eye and unique style, I began taking portraits of friends, family and my pug puppy, Franklin.

Job Description

The lowdown

Assisting a photographer in all aspects of their work

Doing whatever is necessary to ensure that a photographic shoot runs smoothly

Assisting in everything from administration, to the shoot, to scouting locations

Is this role right for me?

To do this role, you will need to:

be willing to learn

be organised and practical

understand how to operate digital and traditional cameras, and scanning equipment

anticipate the needs of the photographer

have excellent communication skills

be able to foresee and evaluate potential problems, and deal with them calmly

be skilled in image-manipulation and image-management software

possess good office skills

pay close attention to detail

What does an Assistant Photographer do?

Getting a job as an Assistant Photographer is one of the best routes into a career in professional photography.

Assistant Photographers can learn on the job from a professional, without the responsibility of running a business or producing professional quality images before they are ready.

They must do whatever is necessary to ensure that a photographic shoot runs smoothly. Usually, this involves preparing sets, checking that all equipment is functioning properly, setting up lighting and accessories, taking meter readings, uploading files and transporting film or prints to and from laboratories.

When working from a studio, an Assistant Photographer will help out with general administration, keeping the sets clean and tidy and printing photographs as required. They will be expected to catalogue and optimise digital files, to scan film and to assist with image manipulation and enhancement.

They will also keep records of the film stock, exposures, lighting set-ups, as well as the names and details of art directors, models, stylists, animal handlers and other contributors. When clients are present during a shoot, it is the Assistant Photographer's job to play host and shield the photographer from unnecessary interruptions.

On location, the Assistant Photographer's duties may involve making a technical assessment of the site in advance, checking for vehicle access, power and communications facilities. They will often organise transport, catering and accommodation, set up equipment, and source a local laboratory or reliable courier.

High-profile photographers sometimes employ several Assistant Photographers who are then known as First Assistant, Second Assistant, and so on. Duties will be divided between the various assistants at the discretion of the photographer. In most cases, the First Assistant provides direct support to the Photographer on set, while the Second Assistant assists with production and general administration.

Qualifications

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.