Why You Need to Diversify Your Presence as a Photo Assistant on the Web

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If you spend anytime on the numerous professional photo forums available on the web, you should notice some posts that are seeking referrals for assistants in locations all around the world. As a freelance photo assistant, if this doesn’t tell you anything, go get yourself a double espresso, right now!

Photographers are almost always looking to hire an assistant when they travel to a location shoot. Sometimes they travel with their #1 assistant from the studio, but will also need another assistant when they get to your town. They need someone familiar with rental stores for gear. They might need you to help them scout for a specific location. An assistant to help with driving and directions, who knows where everything is located. Often, you simply act as a liaison for your city with them, so the photographer or 1st won’t have to waste lots of time finding places for lunch, rentals, and other supplies. And, of course, you’re an extra set of hands on set. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been told by an out-of-town photographer how happy he was that he hired me, because it helped things get done quickly and more efficiently, since I was familiar with my area.

At a minimum, be listed in the ASMP and APA sites, even if it’s just the free listing. But, don’t be satisfied with just a few listings, here and there. Not every photographer uses the same resources. Many photographers seek other photographers feedback and referrals in the photo forums, like APANet, so it pays to peruse these from time-to-time to know which photographers are traveling a lot and you can contact them directly. Some photographers know where to search for assistants all over the web, using websites like 1ProPhoto and PhotoCrew. Some utilize contacts from rental stores and rental studios. You just really never know where your next job will come from. So, be sure to make yourself visible at many places around the web, and around your town!

Currently, I make use of about 8-10 free listings available to post my resume, skills, photos, and references, not to mention using my blog and other resources to assist in marketing my photo assisting services. Make sure you explore all the possibilities, within your community, and the internet.