Comments on: Can I Get Some Assistants

By: Pete Bohler

Pete Bohler — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 07:41:26 +0000

I’ve always found it interesting to watch other people interact with their subjects, but ultimately, that has little bearing on how you shoot and how you interact with your subjects. I used to think there was a standard way of getting people comfortable in front of a camera, but I’ve realized everyone does things differently, depending on their personality. And really, it seems that what people actually say is the least important part of it.

By: Iris

Iris — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 18:01:39 +0000

i’ve really enjoyed reading your blog.. you have an interesting way of story-telling that’s really enjoyable. this blog in particular caught my attention because i’ve been thinking of assisting other photographers for some time now to become more “well-rounded”. i work with a photographer now but feel variety and change is the key to growth. eventually, the goal is to become secure enough on my own to become a (skilled) shooter… so, what it comes down to i guess is assisting can be good for some and not neccessary for others. thanks for sharing your experiences!

By: Aaron Snyder

Aaron Snyder — Sat, 01 Dec 2007 07:40:19 +0000

I’m finding, more and more, that I really enjoy shoots with others. I have a love/hate relationship with the isolation factor in photography. But, nothing’s worse than an overly chatty partner in crime. So when it comes down to it, I think I could see myself falling into the “I’m not going to be someone’s assistant” mentality.
Because of my age (you have to check my blog to findout) I can gladly say that I’m glad you were able to get into the game at your age, because at least I have a decent head start. Thanks for the great article, I’ll be returning.
-Aaron Snyder

By: Kevin

Kevin — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 17:22:37 +0000

The best thing I learned from assisting, other than how dreadfully boring it could become, was the basics of the business. Sure I learned some lighting tips, and what not, but what’s been the most valuable is all of the behind the scenes business aspects that most people learn the hard way.

I move from assisting to managing a commercial studio because I was having trouble paying attention on shoots and was afraid I’d screw up big time, and more importantly, I saw that the business aspects of photography were so important. Estimating, invoicing, collecting, dealing with clients, marketing, etc, are all at least as important as being talented at making great photos.

By: db

db — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 01:12:54 +0000

I’m still fascinated by how other photographers work, so any chance I get to hang out on a shoot and watch another photographer working I take it.

Yep, although I’d guess that is not too often. Photography can be a an isolating occupation unless you work in a shared studio.

But almost as good, sometimes better is the chance to talk shop whilst downing a few cordials with other photographers.

And that’s what I love about photo blogs- they can range from the nuts and bolts of the job, through to the art and philosophy of what we do.