photographer's assistant

[thorndor]

It seems to me that it would be a great learning experience to watch a professional (or anyone more skilled than me even if they don't make money) go through a photoshoot and be able to ask questions about the thought processes behind the choices that they make.

Now, since I doubt anyone would have the incentive to have a tag-along just for the heck of it, does it seems like a good idea to offer to be an assistant and trade labor for the chance to observe? How many pros even use assistants? Is this just a plain stupid idea?

[Daniel Bates]

Quite a few photographers (including me, sometimes) have an assistant along to hold a reflector, hold or position a light, watch the camera bag, etc while shooting. It's helpful, and the assistant gets to learn by watching.

[CaptainTom]

Richard

EDIT: Jump on THIS

Keep posting in this forum, pay attention to what is taught, and be ready to come along on photo shoots with various photogs.

Most of us are very happy to impart whatever knowledge we can.
Go to the get togethers. If people are going to an event, go if you can.

Keep in mind that someone doesn't have to be a full time professional photographer before you can learn from them. Many of us have had the full time gig, and many do it part time. You can pick up a lot of free information.

[Breezy]

Gosh sometimes I wish we were at JRB instead of here lol.
There are so many more offers there, Houston and SA than here :(

[thorndor]

Thanks for the replies. If someone happens to read this and would like a free worker bee for a photo shoot, let me know.

-Richard

[CobyPhoto]

Just a suggestion, if you are serious, I would complete your profile here, and list equipment, education, interests etc. so that prospective photographers can get a feel for who they are letting help them.

Just a suggestion...I own and operate a studio and I would never allow someone "sight unseen" to accompany me on a shoot.

CJ

[supaxtiger]

i can remember i had like 3 assistance in diff seasons, it sbasically like a group directing the whole deal