What photographers look for in full-time assistants

What a famous photographer is looking for in a new Fill-time first assistant.
By ROKKSTAROctober 21. 2009 15:29
Every once in awhile we get job postings which we post for everyone. But sometimes we hear about positions that are so sweat we go after them ourselves. The following was passed along discreatly to us regarding a very famous photographer that is currently looking for a full-time first assistant. Note the extensive skill set that would get you considerd for the job. Next time you say no one shoots film, think again. And for those of you still in photo school, these are the things your school should be teaching you.

Attention experienced NYC photo assistants:

Currently, there is an opportunity to work fulltime as a photo assistant for (Photographers name here).

Who we are looking for:

We are looking for a seasoned assistant (minimum two years assisting experience) with an upbeat and enthusiastic attitude and a strong work ethic. All candidates must possess the ability to operate effectively and efficiently under high-pressure photo assisting situations.



Time Commitment:

We are looking for a minimum of a two-year commitment following an eight-month training period.

Skill Sets Needed for the position:

-Experience using the following analog and digital camera systems: Canon and Nikon digital 35mm systems, Hasselblad medium format camera system using PhaseOne digital backs, Mamiya RZ, Pentax 67, and the Sinar 4x5 and 8x10 large format systems.

-A strong background in using all types of grip equipment as well as the ability to manage the power needs of large-scale location and studio jobs.

-A high level of technical studio and location lighting experience using Profoto, Dynalite, and Briese lights and light shaping tools.

-Must have a great deal of experience using Photoshop (for retouching and workflow management) as well as Capture One.

-International travel experience (i.e. use of an equipment carnet) as a photo assistant.

-Experience in teching, rating, and developing film.

-Proficiency in traditional black and white printing is a bonus!

Responsibilities of the Full Time Assistants:

The responsibilities outlined below are split between the full time first and second assistants.

-Photoshoot Preproduction: creating equipment budgets, scouting shoot locations, placing equipment orders, building assistant team, and loading and teching film.

-Managing photo equipment rentals as well as overseeing and approving all photo-related billing/purchases.

-Onset management of crew, delegation of tasks, and working with (Photographers name) on-camera.

-Post-production: Low res retouching and compositing images, and overseeing postproduction (working as a liaison between (Photographers name) and client as well as retouching company and client).

-You will be responsible for the organization and maintenance of (Photographers name) extensive (to say the least) array of photographic, digital and camera equipment (including shoot computers), as well as our in-house studio and darkrooms.

Compensation:

Compensation is salary based and highly competitive.

If you meet the criteria outline above please email your cover letter and resume to :