Assistant Photographer
Working as an Assistant Photographer is one of the best routes into a career in professional photography. Assistant Photographers have the opportunity to learn on the job from a practicing professional, without having to shoulder the responsibility of running a business and producing professional quality images before they are ready.
While some leading photographers or photographic studios may employ several full-time Assistant Photographers, others cannot afford to employ one. Working as a freelance Assistant Photographer to a pool of professionals may therefore be the best way to maintain regular employment. It also offers the opportunity to observe at close hand the working practices of a number of different photographers, which further enhances the training process.
What is the job?
Assistant Photographers must be prepared to do whatever is necessary to ensure that a photographic shoot runs smoothly. This typically involves preparing sets, checking that all equipment is functioning properly, setting up lighting and accessories, taking meter readings, transmitting files and transporting film or prints to and from laboratories.
When working from a studio, an Assistant will help out with the general administration of the studio, keeping the sets clean and tidy and printing photographs as required. Assistants will be expected to catalogue and optimise digital files, to scan film and to assist with image manipulation and enhancement. They should 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 entertain them, and to shield the photographer from unnecessary interference or interruption.
On location, the Assistant's duties may involve making a technical ‘recce' (reconnaissance) and 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. Here, duties will be divided between the various assistants at the discretion of the photographer. In most cases, the First Assistant is likely to provide direct support to the Photographer on set, while the Second Assistant assists with production and general administration.
Typical career routes
Since this is an entry-level job, some photographers are happy to employ Assistant Photographers with little or no work experience. However, most prefer that applicants have some form of formal photographic training or previous experience in photography, fashion or advertising before seeking work. Assistant Photographers will therefore be expected to have a good grounding in all creative and technical aspects of photography, set construction and lighting. This not only enables the Assistant to understand the necessary preparation, execution and presentation of the job, but also to meet with clients, art directors, models and other contributors and understand their discussions with the photographer. Assistants should also have a friendly and positive attitude and be able to anticipate the needs and requirements of the photographer.
Essential knowledge and skills
Assistant Photographers need to be organised and practical, they should have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, be able to foresee and evaluate potential problems, and deal with the unexpected in a calm and efficient manner. They must possess good office skills, a polite and helpful telephone manner, be able to demonstrate keen attention to detail, and a willingness to learn.
They should know how to operate digital and traditional cameras, as well as scanning equipment. They should also be aware of the different software tools (e.g. Photoshop or Aperture) and techniques of image manipulation and enhancement. They should also be conversant with digital communications.
There are National Occupational Standards (NOS) for Photo Imaging. These give a detailed breakdown of the knowledge, awareness and skills needed to effectively carry out a particular job role. The NOS relevant to this job are listed at the end of this profile.
Training and qualifications
A college qualification cannot guarantee employment, but courses which run effective work placement schemes help students gain valuable work experience and make industry contacts before they graduate. The Professional Qualifying Examination (PQE) offered by the BIPP (British Institute of Professional Photography) has a good reputation with employers. The PQE has traditionally taken the form of an additional year's course following on from a Higher National Diploma (HND). Today it is often incorporated into a three year degree programme. Eight colleges and universities in England and two colleges in Scotland currently offer the PQE (see the BIPP website for further details).
To be accepted on a Photography Degree course you will usually need at least five GCSEs (A-C) or five Standard Grades (1-3), plus two A levels or three Highers, or equivalent qualifications such as an art foundation course. For an HNC/HND course you will usually need four GCSEs (A-C) or Standard Grades (1-3) plus one A level or two Highers or equivalent. An Access to Higher Education qualification may be accepted for entry to certain courses.
Prospective employers normally expect to see a portfolio of photographs - this should be well presented and consist of 10 to15 photographs, that reveal a broad range of skills and competencies.
Well established photographers or studios often support work-based qualifications, such as Apprenticeships and NVQ/SVQs.
Many practitioners start out by assisting an established photographer and learn on the job. Employers may support work-based qualifications, such as Apprenticeships and NVQ/SVQs. Photo Imaging NVQ/SVQs are currently available at levels 2, 3 and 4.
Membership of a professional association such as the British Institute of Professional Photography (BIPP), the Association of Photographers (AOP) and the Society of Wedding & Portrait Photographers (SWPP) may also be beneficial. The BIPP and the SWPP offer a range of qualifications, usually awarded after portfolio submission, enabling a candidate to benchmark their skills against other successful practitioners working in the industry.
Assistant Photographers will be expected to possess a full, clean EU driving licence.
Health & Safety - Assistant Photographers are likely to be subject to physical stresses from carrying heavy camera equipment and lighting, indoors and out, in all seasons, come rain or shine. They should therefore seek advice about appropriate techniques for lifting and moving equipment. In addition, they need to understand Health & Safety legislation and be capable of assessing and managing the risks and dangers associated with the use of electrical lighting, equipment and props. Freelancers should make sure that there is a current Public Liability insurance policy to cover their working activities, or that they have their own policy in place.
www.photoassist.co.uk
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Assistant Photographer
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