Photography Assistant
Position Overview:
As a Photography Assistant at SHAMAYIM Studios, you will be an essential part of our creative team, working closely with Shamayim to ensure the seamless execution of photoshoots. This role requires a keen eye for detail, strong organizational skills, and a passion for photography. You will have the opportunity to learn and grow in a dynamic and collaborative studio environment.
Position Description:
As a Photographer's Assistant to Shamayim, you will play a pivotal role in supporting Shamayim and ensuring the seamless execution of creative projects. Your responsibilities will encompass a diverse range of tasks, including equipment setup and maintenance, lighting assistance, organizational support, and coordination of shoots. This role demands a keen eye for detail, exceptional organizational skills, and the ability to adapt swiftly to the ever-changing demands of the photography industry.
Expectations & Responsibilities
Technical Mastery and Equipment Proficiency
Expertise in Gear: You must possess an in-depth understanding of high-end cameras, lenses, lighting systems, and studio equipment. Experience with advanced digital editing software is essential.
On-the-Fly Troubleshooting: Ability to diagnose and resolve technical issues quickly, ensuring that no moment is lost during a shoot.
Precision Setup: Mastery in setting up complex lighting rigs and studio configurations tailored to the specific creative vision of each project.
Anticipatory and Proactive Support
Predictive Insight: It is of the utmost importance that you can anticipate Shamayim's needs before they are verbally communicated. This means understanding the rhythm and flow of a shoot and preparing equipment, props, or adjustments in advance.
Quick Decision-Making: You must make swift, informed decisions to maintain the momentum of each session.
Creative Collaboration: Collaborate closely with Shamayim to discuss shot concepts, review setups, and suggest innovative solutions on the spot.
Client and Collaborator Relations
Professional Interactions: You will be the first point of contact for clients and collaborators on set. Your ability to communicate clearly, maintain professionalism, and ensure a comfortable, productive atmosphere is essential.
Relationship Management: Cultivate positive and lasting relationships with everyone involved—models, stylists, makeup artists, and other creative professionals.
Ambassador of Excellence: Represent SHAMAYIM Studios with poise and courtesy at all times, ensuring that each client and collaborator feels valued and supported throughout the project.
Organizational and Logistical Expertise
Scheduling & Coordination: Manage detailed shoot schedules, ensuring all parties are informed and prepared.
Equipment Management: Keep meticulous track of studio inventory and ensure that all equipment is properly maintained, organized, and ready for use at a moment's notice.
Document Handling: Assist with administrative tasks such as managing contracts, release forms, and other critical documents that underpin our operations.
Adaptability and Continuous Learning
Staying Current: Demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement by keeping abreast of new techniques, trends, and technologies in photography.
Flexibility: Adapt swiftly to changes, whether it’s a sudden shift in creative direction or unexpected challenges during a shoot.
Problem Solving: Use resourcefulness and creativity to overcome any obstacles that arise, ensuring the integrity and flow of the creative process are never compromised.
Detailed Requirements & Experience
Professional Experience:
Prior experience as a photography assistant in a fast-paced, professional setting is required.
Demonstrable experience working on high-profile shoots or with renowned photographers is highly desirable.
Technical Skills:
Extensive knowledge of DSLR/mirrorless/Analog camera systems, various lenses, and lighting techniques.
Proficiency with post-production software such as Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, or equivalent is a plus.
Anticipatory Skills:
A track record of working in environments where the ability to predict and fulfill a photographer's needs without explicit instructions was paramount.
Examples from previous roles where you successfully managed the dynamic needs of a creative professional will be highly valued.
Client Interaction:
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with an ability to make clients and collaborators feel at ease.
Experience in roles that required high levels of customer service and discretion.
Organizational Ability:
Demonstrable skills in managing logistics, scheduling, and maintaining studio organization under pressure.
Ability to multitask efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
Legal and Contractual Obligations
Before any formal engagement, you will be required to sign a comprehensive Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) along with any other necessary legal documents. These agreements protect our creative processes, client confidentiality, and proprietary techniques. It is crucial that you fully understand and are comfortable with these legal commitments as a condition of your employment.
Probation Period
All prospective assistants will undergo a probationary period before being confirmed in an official capacity. During this phase, your technical abilities, anticipatory skills, and overall fit with the team will be rigorously evaluated. This trial period is designed not only for us to assess your performance but also for you to experience the pace and standards at SHAMAYIM Studios, ensuring that we are a mutual match for long-term success.
How to Apply
If you believe you have the experience, skill set, and proactive spirit required to excel as a photography assistant at SHAMAYIM Studios, we want to hear from you. Please send your resume, portfolio, the position you are applying for and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience, your approach to anticipating a photographer’s needs, and examples of your work with clients and collaborators to:
At SHAMAYIM Studios, every shoot is a collaborative masterpiece that demands precision, creativity, and unwavering dedication. We look forward to welcoming a new team member who can predict our professional needs and deliver excellence both behind the scenes and in every interaction with our clients and partners.