[by Bruce Katz]
One of the key elements for a successful photography business is running a smooth, efficient production that can handle all of the twists and turns of demanding clients and the uncontrollable variables like weather and working on crazy city streets.
At the core of that production is you–the assistant. The good ones can save a shoot from ruin. The bad ones can double the work and make time stand still.
So how do you approach working with a photographer in a way that establishes a path to success for both of you? Here are a few requirements that I use to establish a good working relationship with my assistants. I’ll start with all the obvious basics:
You must be on time and dressed appropriately (weather/business environment) Always ask prior to the shoot if it hasn’t been established.
I’ll always detail the nature of the shoot, including shot list and what I expect to do and encounter on set. I’ll outline your responsibilities for the day within the context of the days shoot. If anything isn’t clear or you have some helpful ideas share or ask prior to the shoot.
Pay – how many hours are expected for your fee and how is overtime figured. When will you get paid? This needs to be discussed upfront. If there’s any chance for confusion put it in writing.
Communications –For me this is the real key for a smooth shoot. I take a teachers approach here. I make it clear that I welcome your questions – especially if you are not sure of my intent or clear about my process or equipment. I would rather explain upfront than to have to redo a set-up or waste time doing something twice. (I do not expect assistants, especially emerging assistants, to have a complete command of all gear, process, and workflow). I do, however, expect you to be clear and truthful about your actual skills and knowledge base. I find nothing worse than someone who has misrepresented their knowledge and skills. I caught an assistant (second assistant on a big shoot who assured me he knew strobe lighting) about to plug my sync cord into a wall outlet!!! He was reassigned to gopher for the remainder of the day and replaced the following day.
I welcome creative and workflow input from my assistants. If the client is on set I expect these suggestions to come through me in a discreet manner. I enjoy bouncing ideas off my assistants and getting their feedback. This serves several purposes; A teaching moment for you so you can see how I think and problem solve – it also allows you to have a deeper involvement in shoot, and it becomes an opportunity for me to have a fresh perspective and learn a few ( more than a few) new things from you.
Be clear with your expectations, skills, and communications. With this you will be able to create the proper working environment for a great day on set.
Bruce Katz is a NYC based photographer specializing in interiors, architecture and portraiture.