What do i take on a shot as a photographers assistant?

Question

I'm not really sure what i need to take with me, any tips would be fab!!

Answer 1

Take a small resume with a list of your education, any classes you have taken in photography, a small "book" of your best photography that shows off not only your excellent compositional skills of subjects that are commercial (fashion, product photography and some editorial) but also are technically perfect (exposure and print quality)

Answer 2

If you've already landed the opportunity to be the assistant, I recommend an emergency kit / toolbox related to the shoot that you are helping with.

For example, if you are assisting in a portraiture job (you want items helpful to both photographer & client):

- a compact mirror

- tissue

- a lint roller -- or duct tape (as it can remove lint & help with repairs)

- tiny emergency sewing kit

- clothespins &/or small "A" clamps

- etc.... you get the idea.

If you plan on assisting pretty often, I would recommend expanding your toolbox.  Having things like extra PC cables, peanut-slaves, popular tripod head quick releases, batteries, etc. would be fabulous!  Even if they do not use it, knowing that their assistant has the foresight to be prepared with these shoot-saving items would be impressive.  An important point too though, is to keep the kit small, portable, & professional looking (don't use a beat up box, bag, etc... or something with stickers all over it.  Just be professional.)  f***y-packs fit the bill assuming you are not at a Semi-formal event.  Check with the photographer first.

Other important things are specific to each photographer, which you will learn with time.  Look for consistency in their workflow, & see how you can be 1-step ahead.  For example, if a photographer always shoots portraits in a certain order -- eventually leading to a shot using "soft filters."  Well, be 1-step ahead, & when you know that the "soft filter" shot is coming up -- have the "soft filter" ready for them.  This will show that you are aware of what's going on.

Finally, & MOST IMPORTANTLY bring your professionalism & good work ethic.  There are literally hundreds of people wanting to be photo assistants -- so you are expendable.  However, there are relatively very few GOOD assistants -- so once you have a reputation for being good, it gets passed around among the professionals!  The mere fact that you are looking for tips ahead of time is a good sign!

If you can't put together a kit, don't worry -- as that is not usually expected (unless you are working for a commercial photographer in the competitive bigger cities).  Remember work ethic & attitude is more important than anything you can pack in a kit.  Oh yeah... do not be so eager to learn that you ask too many questions to the point of distraction.  Even if the photographer is nice, there is time & a place.  Good luck & have fun!