Do you know how to load a roll of film?
Work a light meter?
Edit slides on a light table?
Scan film?
Color correct scans?
Track a photo inventory?
Submit photos to clients?
Work with a stock agency?
Make prints?
Pack a camera bag?
Ship equipment?
Set up lights?
Scout a location?
Drive on the left side of the road?
Order food in French?
Clean a digital sensor?
Work in Photoshop?
Create a workflow?
Edit a Portfolio?
Build a creative brief?
Create a composite image?
Shoot from a helicopter?
Work 30 days straight (with a hangover)?
Use a prototype camera?
Shoot and edit video?
Manage a huge equipment inventory?
Develop filters for a photo app?
Layout a book?
Film a TV show?
Write a magazine article?
Build a community?
Hang an art installation?
Survive in Manhattan?
Film a Live broadcast?
Write a blog post?
I didn’t. When I started working in photography as Chase’s assistant, I was a blank slate. I like to think I still am. Many of these skills have become obsolete. Others did not even exist when I started. Knowing how to do everything is not the goal. Knowing that you can learn is everything.
A wonderful reminder. Thanks, Scott
I am just about to graduate from a commercial photography program. this is the best advice i’ve heared the whole time i’ve been in school.
Will Chase Jarvis gives me a job as assistant to the assistant?
No, he should give me that job.
Excellent post. Just as soon as I think I’m getting my learn on …
BRILLIANT.
And thus is why everyone wants to be the photographer-, because with a list as long as that, the only thing left for the photographer to do is sit back in the hot tub and make the assistant to do it all!
In all seriousness though, I know many assistants in NY who work for the world’s top fashion photographers, and the most important criteria in becoming an assistant is knowing someone who’s already on the crew. After that, the only important thing is: how much beer can you drink, what’s your latest cool tattoo, and can you work 30 days straight without pissing anyone off.
holy shit. I needed this.