assist with approaching other photog

[jevidon]

I am looking to get in with an established local photographer (Minneapolis/St. Paul) as an assistant to acquire experience and new perspective for my photography. I figured the best thing to do would be to do some research on the local photographers and then write to them with samples of my work. I am wondering if anyone else here has done this before and if they have tips on what has worked best.

[vwpilot]

Do you want to assist or work as a second shooter?

If you want to assist, do NOT send them samples of your work. That means nothing and will do nothing for you. Photographers that are going to hire an assistant want an assistant and not someone that is interested in talking about being a shooter and showing off their work. You can of course learn and the photographer probably knows that is what you are there for, but your photos and skill as a photographer means nothing. All they want to know is that you can follow directions, solve problems that might arise and know how to use the equipment you'll be assisting with. The last part is not even that important if you can show you are willing and a quick learner.

Write them, or better yet call them, and tell that you want to assist. You know your way around X equipment and X light systems, etc, and that you are willing to learn and work hard to help them out. If they want to share photo tips with you, they will. But basically just do the job, watch and learn what you can and stay out of the way. Follow directions and if you dont know something TELL THEM immediately and they'll show you. You'll do more damage trying to figure something out on your own than asking for help.

[jevidon]

Thanks for the great info Jim. I have a feeling that finding work as a second shooter at the end of the wedding season will be difficult so I think that an assistant position will be a more likely option.

[breal101]

Jim, excellent advice. If we hire an assistant the very last thing we want to see is a portfolio. Dependability and a willingness to learn are far more important. Also, Jevidon your local ASMP chapter is a great resource for assistant work. They maintain online listings for assistants and going to a few meetings is a good way to find photographers you can work for.