- 1). Educate yourself about studio photography equipment. Take college classes or find ways to teach yourself the ins and outs of using all of the equipment in a studio. You should be able to use a digital camera, be familiar with different types of lenses and have a working knowledge of studio lighting. If you are interested in working with film photographers, you should also have knowledge of shooting with film and the developing process.
- 2). Learn photo editing software. Although you may not need to use it all the time as a studio assistant, having the knowledge can set you apart from other applicants. At the least, you should have an advanced knowledge of the latest release of Adobe Photoshop, which the University of California, Berkeley calls the industry standard. Learn how to handle basic color shifts, fix blemishes, crop and resize images, and save as different formats.
- 3). Create a portfolio of your work to show potential employers. Include your best shots and some of your more experimental work. Design the portfolio to be clean and professional, and show a range of work over a span of time. Your portfolio should indicate that you are serious about photography and willing to try new things as part of the learning process.
- 4). Target photographers whose work you admire. Don't be afraid to consider photographers who have a different style from your own; assisting them will help you learn. Create a list of photographers you would like to work for so your enthusiasm will carry you through long days of menial tasks in the studio. Include people who work in industries that you would like to get into so you can use the position to make valuable contacts. Schedule a meeting with each of the photographers, whether or not there is a current opening.
- 5). Display enthusiasm and passion in the meeting with the photographer. Demonstrate your knowledge of the industry and the photographer's work by asking intelligent questions. Show the photographer that you are ready to work hard and willing to learn. If there is no current open position, leave your contact information for future reference.
- Advertisement -
- Advertisement -