How to Get a Job As a Photographer's Assistant

Wondering how to become a photographer's assistant? Working for a professional photographer can be the next step towards a career in photography after college. Here are a few tips on how to land a job working for a professional photographer.

Things You'll Need

• Resume
• Portfolio

Instructions

1. Prepare yourself financially. Photography jobs are known to pay poorly. Especially if you plan on working under a photographer as an apprentice or assistant. These jobs are usually acquired for the experience only. Many photographer's assistant jobs don't even pay. Make sure you have adequate funds to cover your basic living expenses for the time being.

2. Put together your portfolio. Most photographers are going to require that you have some basic knowledge of photography. The higher profile fashion and commercial photographers are going to have a lot of applicants to chose from and usually choose only the most skilled students.

3. Search the internet for a list of photographers in the region that you wish to work. For example, if you are looking for a photographer's assistant job in Orange County, there is a web site that lists every photographer in the county. Browse these selections and send a copy of your resume and portfolio to the photographers you would like to work for.

4. Head to your local camera shops and ask the employees if they know any photographer's in the area that take on assistants. References are your best option most of the time.