What Is The Job Of A Fashion Photography Assistant?

The role of an assistant includes not just responding to but also preventing issues. Many different kinds of problems can arise.

If your models are running late, your equipment breaks down, or the lights don't turn on, you won't be able to take the shot without a backup strategy.

Working as an assistant for a photographer whose work you respect is a great way to gain vital experience and insight into the field.

Being a "real" fashion photographer for the first time. It was as if doors to uncharted worlds were opening up to him at every turn; he could now manipulate light, interact with models, compose his shots, and more.

Simply observing and helping out provided a wealth of information. You have an intimate understanding of not only their actions but also their mental processes. Check out our extensive list of Wedding Photographers in Melbourne to help capture your special moments.

Because being an assistant can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, We hope that the advice given here will motivate and inspire you to perform at your absolute best.

In order to get your first chance to work on set as an assistant, you should think about how to make a good impression on a photographer when you first reach out to them. I'll share some strategies for grabbing their interest and some things to absolutely not do.

After you've proven your usefulness, the next step is to make that photographer want to work with you again. Some 'guidelines' for helpers are as follows. Those who work as assistants professionally will have this information at their fingertips. Having this knowledge will allow you to better meet the needs of any photographer you end up assisting.

What Are Some Other Things That An Assistant Could Expect To Do?

A few common responsibilities:

• Making sure everything is set to go. Find out what equipment the photographer will be using, and bring any necessary backups.
• It is your job as a digital capture assistant to verify incoming files and put them in the appropriate folders.
• As the saying goes, you're "an extra set of eyes." Rodrigo stresses the need of being vigilant in seeing any problems during production, as doing so is typically more quicker and less labor-intensive than in post. Even comments as brief as "the suit is wrinkly" can prove immensely helpful during the editing process.
• The onus of responsibility for additional activities may fall on your shoulders. Photographers "may lay on you the tasks of organising lunch, building a set, cleaning, steaming the wardrobe, or going get something that is missing in the shoot."

Advice For What Photography Assistants Should Do

Getting Your Foot In The Door

Imagine you want to work as a photographer's assistant. If you admire their work or business sense, what should you do next? Your initial inclination may be to send them an email, but keep in mind that messages sent by email often go unread. Instead, meet them in person if you can!

Finding a chance to meet a photographer in person is a great approach to make a good first impression. Will you see them at a local gathering? Is there a presentation going on here? A museum exhibit? If you can acquire some face time and build a rapport with someone, you'll be much ahead of the competition.

Meeting other photographers at conventions is another great option. Instead of trying to figure out if we're a good fit through email, we much rather meet someone in person at a networking event or industry happy hour.

A person who meets us, makes a good impression, and then follows up with an email usually moves to the top of the list, especially if a photographer is in need of an assistant soon.

Interning

Have a paid internship once every two to three months; this is a common practice among photographers. Interns often work for a company for a minimum of six months before being promoted to assistant (paid per job rather than a monthly stipend). Aspiring assistants can look no further than their internship programmes, where they can learn the ins and outs of lighting, setting up, and collaborating with other artists. Everyone on staff who now receives a salary started out as an intern and quickly proved to be an indispensable member of the team.

You may want to intern first to gain experience with the various light equipment, metering, and setting up scrims and multi-light setups before putting yourself out there as an assistant. Many businesses also provide assistant and digital technology bootcamps to help employees get up to speed as rapidly as possible. In addition, offer to help a burgeoning photographer who might be doubling as an assistant) learn the ropes and become a fully-functioning member of the team.

Networking & Persistence 

Consistency is essential. It's important to strike a balance between being persistent and obnoxious. We normally don't need any extra help because, unlike other fashion photographers, We don't have to share with three regular assistants.

Meeting photographers requires initiative and persistence; nevertheless, there's a narrow line between the two. We get a lot of letters from people hoping to land an assistant position, and while we do our best to get back to everyone, some of them do slip through the cracks. In order to get to know each other better, they often schedule coffee or beer dates with them. The deal-breaker is if an assistant comes off as extremely persistent to the point of it becoming an irritation, arrogance, or a sense of being unprofessional.

However, how can you decide who will help you? To begin, you should look to the advice of other administrative helpers. Have they seen an assistant working on set before and think that person would be a good fit for the job? For this reason, it is to your advantage to constantly put in your best effort and have a professional demeanour on ANY set, and to make connections with other assistants. A excellent way to create connections and maybe obtain some future recommendations is to attend numerous mixers for photo assistants and meetings for photo groups. If a photographer's assistant isn't present, the photographer will often turn to other assistants for advice.

Emails are the second method for choosing an assistant. Photographers will either meet with a possible assistant in person or contact them personally if they have been corresponding with them online. If You can't think of somebody in particular, You can always go with the most recent email we gotten. Do you understand now how important it is to keep trying? Who receives the most emailed attention, and why? whoever followed up repeatedly shows persistence.

Emailing

When contacting a photographer by email, it's polite to keep a few things in mind. There are some things that can be included in an email that will make photographers more interested in hiring you, and others that will quickly disqualify you.

Email Dos

• Prove that you understand the photographer:  Sending a mass email with the subject line ", please employ me to assist you" will get you blacklisted instantly. Clearly, you don't value the photographer's work or their business if you don't take the time to send them a personalised, devoted email. They're nothing more than a number, really. Instead, take the time to send a personalised email that demonstrates your interest in the photographer by, for example, congratulating them on a recent achievement, explaining why you appreciate a selection of their current work, or mentioning that you saw one of their gallery exhibitions.
• Pay attention to your strengths:  Leave out the minutiae of why you require a photographer and focus instead on the transferrable skills you can offer. Have you worked with software like Capture One, Broncolor Profoto, grip, etc.? If so, please elaborate. Focus on your work ethic instead if you are unfamiliar with the technology and tools you will be using. Show them you can anticipate their requirements and are willing to put in the time and effort to meet them.
• Propose a test run: You can make it easy for a photographer to hire you by offering a "trial day" in which you return to the set and provide your assistance for a reduced rate. Make it little (or no) commitment so you may shine and show your worth to the team without breaking the bank.

Email Don’ts

• Avoid rambling. Extreme length demonstrates contempt for the photographer's time. Just the right length to express some personality and enthusiasm without becoming a novel!
• Remember to use proper language and spellcheck: Emails with misspelt names, grammatical errors, and typos are a sign that the sender doesn't care about the finer points of communication. They can't rely on you to send out crucial business emails or verify other minor issues, therefore you won't be considered an assistant either.
• Stop puffing yourself up: The truth is that your level of photography expertise is largely unrelated to your usefulness. In most cases, a photographer's assistant's success is unrelated to his or her academic achievements or professional recognition. So... don't put too much emphasis on your unique qualities. Instead, explain to the photographer how and why you can help them. Don't forget to highlight the unique qualities you admire most in the photographer. A great deal further can be progressed in this way. Furthermore, a photographer may see your boasts as signals that you consider yourself superior to the point of either being above completing some chores or being competitive (and they will not want you onset).

Make A Good Impression

The door has been opened for you, and a photographer has invited you to join the set. So, now what? How can you make a strong first impression and quickly contribute to the success of the group?

Keep in mind that one of your primary objectives should be to improve their quality of life. Lighting, lens changes, and other "camera stuff" all fall under this category. However, there is much more to a wonderful assistant than just that.

Anticipation is the single most crucial word you can learn. Can you put yourself in the shoes of a photographer and provide for their needs before they ever ask? Do you notice that they are stepping back because the lens they are using is too long? The option to switch to the lens with a broader field of view should be made available to the user. Can you make out a photographer who is balancing precariously on their tippy toes in order to obtain a better shot? Whether it's an apple box or a step stool, reach for them to help them see better. The more you collaborate with a photographer, the more you'll anticipate their needs.

A photographer is not "above" reaching for a new set of lenses or a fresh batch of apples. They need to put their efforts into actually acquiring the photo, taking into account things like facial expression, composition, and lighting. Return as much of their vitality as you can so that they may focus on making the product a success. Looking for a wedding photographer in Melbourne? Look no further. Boutique Events Group has compiled an ultimate list of wedding photo companies to help you choose. 

Know What To Expect

When working with photographers, it's helpful to have a set of ground rules and expectations in place, especially if new assistants or interns will be joining the team from time to time.

Although there are rules to follow, the set is always a good time. Knowing one's job and what is expected of you makes the whole process run more smoothly.

Timeliness

Make sure you're on time. Don't make any apologies. Assisting photographers all day can be challenging if you are late or unavailable. You should expect delays due to things like traffic, severe weather, and late trains. There's no harm in getting there early to get some work done or to get acquainted with the new tools you'll be using.

Clothing

Black attire is recommended for administrative assistants. Even if they aren't black, they should be in a dark, solid colour with no logos. This is for good reason. First, whether you are holding a reflector or standing close to the person, wearing black clothing will keep you from casting any undesired colours onto their skin. Second, it helps maintain a serious, businesslike atmosphere on set. Black also helps keep the spotlight where it belongs—on the customer and the inventive procedure. Last but not least, in photographs and videos, extras wearing black stand out less.

Safety

Preventing harm is always a top focus. Relocate any potentially hazardous cords. A shaky ladder should be repaired immediately. The primary light, especially if it has a boom arm, should always be surrounded by sandbags. Always place the sandbag on the longest leg of the stand, with the arm extended over the top and maybe even to act as a ballast for the boom). If you are confused about how to lay sandbags, please Google "correct sandbag placement."

Tidy Set

Maintaining a clean set is a must. There should not be a tangle of wires on the floor. Modifiers and lights that aren't being used should be stored neatly out of the way. Nothing may be allowed to be an obstruction or an eyesore, thus all of those things must be taken care of. Because the set is continuously being rearranged, things will be moved around during the day. If anything is moved or taken during the day, it should be put back in its original location before leaving for the day.

It is expected that you will arrive early and stay late to clean up. Don't feel like you have to be a maid, but at night, be sure to take out the trash and replace the bags in the garbage cans.

Maintain the cleanliness of the area by sweeping the floor and wiping down the counters. Employees who maintain a tidy, orderly, and secure workplace tend to be the most valuable. Have you taped down the cords so that they're all neat and tidy? Does the online shopping basket have a logical structure? Have sandbags been installed in every light?

Assisting Me

Focus and expectation are the watchwords of assistance.

Attention

Observe the practises of photographers. How often do photographers change lenses? When do they want assistance in relocating the light? Sometimes it helps to stand near the light stand and watch as the photographers follow Doe around as she moves it around the room. To what end can you be most helpful? In addition to helping you perform better in your assistant role, paying attention will provide you insight into the minds of the directors and producers behind the camera.

Anticipation

If you observe photographers' behaviours, you might start to anticipate their demands. You'll be able to tell when an apple box is needed to get a better vantage point. When they require a lens with a different focal length, you will be prepared to hand it off to them. On and on it would go. Assistants that truly excel in their jobs are those who can foresee their needs.

Distractions, Professionalism, And Other Ethics

• An assistant's phone use should be limited. There is seldom a moment of rest on a set, and if clients are present, the slightest sign of disorganisation could give the impression that the production is not taking its business seriously.
• Reduce the number of interruptions, if possible. Please keep client/subject/creative team conversations professional and avoid discussing sensitive or personal matters. The conversation can quickly turn sour if inappropriate topics are broached. The best course of action is to avoid making small talk with the client until they initiate it. Despite if they are outgoing in their own lives, photographers generally prefer helpers who keep to themselves on set. To be clear, this doesn't mean you can't be yourself or show some personality at work; it just means you should put professionalism first.
• Use appropriate language and avoid inappropriate topics at all times.
• Always think about the photographer, the customer, and the model first.
• Of course it's encouraged to have a good time on sets, but remember that you're still at work. Act in a way that reflects well on your profession at all times.
• Wait for the signal that it is lunch break before you eat. As soon as everyone is done eating, you should begin clearing the table.
• Couch potatoes are strictly forbidden. Though there is a time and place for relaxation, it is not an assistant's duty (or leisure) to spend all day slouching on the couch. Rule of thumb for assistants: if photographers aren't lounging around, they probably shouldn't be either. Investigate further options for streamlining production. It might be as simple as doing some cleaning or organising ahead of time.
• Opinions: If you think the client should know about something you saw on set, whisper it so they don't overhear you. Try not to bring up any issues that can make the client unhappy. This could sound harsh, but generally speaking, you shouldn't provide your thoughts unless specifically requested. Clients can be swayed or photographers can lose focus if unasked-for advice is given. Instead, subtly bring it up as you discover what they like and do not enjoy. Negative feedback, such as “I don't like this shirt” or “I think the lighting doesn't work,” is not appreciated.

Social Media Behind The Scenes

If you want to take photos or video behind the scenes, you should always get permission beforehand. There will be instances when you cannot take any photos or post any online from the shoot. Inquire first.

Behind-the-scenes photos should always show anything from the set's preparation process, such as a light stand, camera, makeup artist's brush, etc. In NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD YOU EVER PUBLISH A SINGLE PHOTO OF THE MODEL ALONE.

Sometimes They need you to snap photos in the background for us. Keep in mind that this is a necessary business activity for social media, and that it does not give you free reign to check your phone constantly.

Searching For A Job As An Assistant

• Find photographers whose work you appreciate and who you would like to learn from, then reach out to them. There are a lot of uninvited contacts involved, such as emails and phone calls. You have to walk a fine line between being persistent and obnoxious, as Rodrigo puts it. If you must communicate by email, he suggests striking a balance between formality and friendliness.
• Second assistant positions are sometimes used as a stepping stone towards higher positions. A first assistant is someone who works consistently with the photographer, while a second assistant is someone who is recruited for certain shoots, as explained by Rodrigo.
• Both a website and a portfolio are required. People are interested in your work as a photographer and want to see examples of your work. Although you are not actively photographing anything," Rodrigo says.
• Don't be afraid to let your individuality shine through. Having a criminal record might make it more difficult to find work and lower your salary. Inject some good vibes, that's what's needed. Put forth an effort to prove your interest and participation, as Rodrigo puts it.
• In this way, it benefits a wide range of photographers. Rodrigo has worked as a second shooter for a wide variety of industries, including the culinary and fashion industries and large corporations. You may get a feel for what it's like to work in other fields by looking at a wide variety of photographic techniques. Food photography, for instance, is a collaborative endeavour, as Rodrigo explains. It's impossible to take good food shots if the food isn't styled properly. The identical can be said of photographs of fashion. Bad hair and cosmetics will be immediately noticeable.
• Take advantage of every possibility. "The instant you walk through the door is your moment to shine. Show that you're valuable by contributing something unique.

Reasons For Why It's Worth It To Be A Photography Assistant

We were given a full rundown of the procedure, apparatus, and methodology that were employed by the entire crew in the making of these photographs. Here are the five most crucial benefits of working as a photographic assistant. Here at Boutique Events Group, we have compiled an exclusive list of Melbourne Wedding Photographers to help capture your special day

Few Tips:

• Learn as much as you can from the photographer; Joe has a fantastic eye for lighting, so take advantage of it.
• Gain the stability of a regular paycheck while yet having time to hone your personal flair by taking on an assistant role.
• The experience of assisting a well-known photographer will provide you with invaluable networking possibilities and the chance to gain customer trust.
• You should take advantage of the opportunity to travel with the photographer and add some new shots to your portfolio, as you may never get the chance to visit the location again.
• Keep in mind that your time spent working on a set is invaluable in preparing you for a successful career in photography on your own.

Conclusion

One of the safest hairstyles for an Indian wedding is a sleek bun. It is recommended that you wear your ghungat backwards, and this elegant doughnut bun is the perfect hairdo to hide your ghungat's messy rear. The distinctive and little blossoms add a soft sweetness to the bouquet. You can decorate your bun with four or five flowers by using bobby pins to secure them to the side. The lack of appreciation for leaf-inspired motifs is regrettable.

This ringlet bun would be incomplete without a gold comb carved with a beautiful leaf design. Even a simple ponytail may be transformed into a show-stopping design with the right bumpit. The traditional wedding dress is a red lehenga, but not everyone wants to wear it. This chic updo would look great with an all-black or all-white ensemble. This twisted updo is so chic and modern, it will steal the show from your expensive gown.

This elegant and delicious twist on the traditional doughnut bun is sure to please. This loose braid style is already beautiful, but it becomes much more breathtaking when paired with a luxurious silk saree. A gajra is a traditional part of every Indian wedding (a garland of jasmine flowers) A string of artificial flowers in the hair is a necessary for a stylish wedding guest. A simple low bun is taken to the next level with the help of an extravagant high updo and a small bouquet of flowers. It doesn't matter how plain your hairdo is before, a few well-placed Dutch braids can make it look elegant.

A fake Juda is the way to go if you have fine hair but still want a dense bun. Curling the hair and pinning it up creates a stunning look. This trendy bride has gone out of her way by donning an unconventional hairstyle and an all-black wedding gown. Putting on a jhumar and maang teeka will round out your ensemble. A simple braid may be made into a work of beauty with the addition of some curls and fake flowers.

Flowers form a crown at the top of the braid and cascade down the length in a poola Jada. In order to achieve the jadagantalu style, wrap a gajra around your braid. Use a heat protectant after you've washed and dried your hair. Picking up and rolling 1- to 2-inch sections of hair will give you a full head of curls. The bride looks wonderful in a saree and her hair is styled in a beautiful ringlet hairstyle that she has embellished with roses.

Content Summary

1. Explore Indian wedding hairstyles if you want your big day to be unforgettable.
2. We have created a list of some of the most common Indian bridal hairstyles to help you attain a stunning traditional Indian look.
3. It is recommended that you wear your ghungat backwards, and this elegant doughnut bun is the perfect hairdo to hide your ghungat's messy rear.
4. This ringlet bun would be incomplete without a gold comb carved with a beautiful leaf design.
5. Make sure your hair is protected from the heat of the styling tools by using a heat protectant.
6. Put on a lot of texturizing spray and work it into your curly hair.
7. Make a ringlet out of one of the curls at the end of your hair and pin it to the underside of your ponytail.
8. Put your ornamental hair comb through the hole you just made in your bun.
9. Spray the ringlet bun down with lots of hairspray.
10. bumpy curls
11. Incredibly, a bumpit can elevate even the most boring hairdo to the next level.
12. The traditional wedding dress is a red lehenga, but not everyone wants to wear it.
13. Hair should be taken out in 2-inch sections and straightened.
14. Then you should do your hair in this stunning updo.
15. Bun Center Splitted Dramatically
16. That she looks and feels like a princess on her wedding day.
17. This elegant and delicious twist on the traditional doughnut bun is sure to please.
18. One good hairstyle tip is to part your hair down the middle.
19. Put your hair in a tight, high ponytail.
20. When worn by a South Indian bride with a heavy silk saree, this simple twisted braid technique becomes very breathtaking.
21. Every Indian bride wears a gajra (a garland of jasmine flowers) in her hair throughout the ceremony.
22. You can't go to a wedding in style without tucking a strand of jasmine flowers into your hair.
23. Use a fine-toothed comb to backcomb your entire head of hair.
24. You can arrange the flowers into a small bouquet and use that to decorate the top of your bun.
25. Apply liberal amounts of hairspray to your bun to finish it off.
26. Place a doughnut at the base of your ponytail.
27. This stunning updo features a faux juda in the rear and twin Dutch braids on the front.
28. One good hairstyle tip is to part your hair down the middle.
29. Don't stress over how to do something fancy with your short hair for the big day.
30. Carry out the same steps on the other side.
31. Veiled Ponytail
32. We had to take a second look at the bride's outfit, to be honest.
33. Pick up and twist off 2-inch sections of your hair at the bottom, and you'll have gorgeous, voluminous curls.
34. To do this, pull your hair up into a high ponytail at the top of your head and tie it in the middle.
35. Putting on a jhumar and maang teeka will round out your ensemble.
36. Simple Flower Braid
37. At a Big Fat Indian Wedding, flowers play an important role in each and every one of the ceremonies.
38. Make a side part in your hair.
39. For a South Indian bride, the traditional pool Jada is a must-have.
40. Use bobby pins or U pins to secure the beginning and finish of your braid to your poola Jada.
41. Patterned in the Timeless Style of the Gajra Braid
42. You can seem like a lovely actress from Tollywood with just a little twist to your braid on your wedding day.
43. Wrapping a gajra around your braid will provide a floral twist to your otherwise traditional bridal hairstyle.
44. One good hairstyle tip is to part your hair down the middle.
45. Use a heat protectant after you've washed and dried your hair.
46. Make one side extra harsh.
47. Fishtail Braid
48. You can't help but feel like you're staring at something out of this world when you see an Indian bride for the first time.
49. This new take on the mermaid braid aims to do just that.
50. The ultimate goal of every daughter is to emulate her mother.
51. In an effort to ape your mother, you probably stuffed your hair with her old gajras when you were a kid.
52. Mother's blessings will follow you around in this gajra-adorned bun.
53. Spin your ponytail into a tight little bundle, then use a few pins to secure it in place.
54. Secure your bun by wrapping the gajra around it.
55. The only Disney princess who looks like she could be from India is Jasmine.
56. Throw your hair over your shoulder in a knot.
57. Wrap an elastic around the end of your loose braid.