Photography assistant?

[jprime84]

I was just wondering what kind of reactions to expect if I were to approach working photographers offering my help with an occasional shoot for free. The idea is that they would get some free help for a shoot, and I would get some real world experience.

At the end of the day, I might ask for copies of a few of the shots I took for my own portfolio and the photographer is welcome to the rest. Even if I don't do any shooting, I could learn about posing of subjects which after this latest assignment I realize is something I have no clue about!

[carl yeomans]

Hi jprime84, ask yourself , would you do that for someone else if it was your bread and butter and after he has taken some of your knowledge to be able to do it on his own. That guy will be taking bread from your table.

[jprime84]

I am not a pro though. I have a daily job (not photography) and I get by just fine. I am the one in the position where I am asking for something, and I would rather have the experience than a little extra money (at this point).

[oldwolf]

Only one way to find out. Go ask. There will be photographers that would love an assistant as long as he didn't have to pay them and others closely guard their secrets and don't want anyone around. *shrug*

Most (not all) photographers in love to teach others what they know. Yes, there could be competition for business going on but that's the chance you take with anything. There's always going to be competition. You just have to offer a product that others can't.