Working as a photographer’s assistant offers a unique behind-the-scenes look at what goes into creating meaningful and memorable images. While many people focus on the final photographs, there is a wide range of responsibilities that happen before, during, and after each shoot. From carefully selecting and enhancing images to capturing candid moments and supporting busy wedding days, each role contributes to the overall client experience. Throughout the year, my tasks shift with the seasons, allowing me to develop a diverse set of skills while playing an important part in bringing each session to life. Let’s dive into what it looks like to be a photographer’s assistant.



Culling and Editing


In the colder months when outdoor sessions are put on pause, the main role that I have as a photographer’s assistant is the post-shooting process of culling and editing studio sessions. Culling involves going through all of the images that were captured during a session and deciding which ones to edit. When doing this, I look for the images that are the sharpest, have everyone's eyes open, and capture an interesting expression—and it’s not always a smile. With little kids, sometimes it’s a funny face or even a few tears that happen between the smiles—but what we capture isn’t always perfection but real moments as they happen. Once the photos have been culled, they are ready to be edited. This is where you crop and straighten images, apply presets and make adjustments, and retouch photos to remove any unwanted elements. While this process may seem tedious, it’s a major part in creating images that clients love.



Filming Behind-the-Scenes Content


During the summer, one of my jobs is filming behind-the-scenes content during shoots. This means always having the phone ready to capture the funny and sweet moments in between poses and capturing dynamic poses such as a family walking while holding hands along the beach. These moments are not only great for content but they are also a great additional way to let clients reminisce on the beautiful moments and movement throughout their session.



Assisting with Weddings


One of my favourite parts of my job so far has been assisting with wedding days throughout the summer and fall so I am so excited that wedding season will be ramping up again soon! On a wedding day, we are often the ones making sure that the day runs according to schedule, working closely with the couple and their wedding party. As a photography assistant, I get to capture my own photos to add to the gallery and shoot behind-the-scenes content. A potentially less expected part of this role is keeping things practical by carrying equipment and becoming a bit of an assistant to the bride where needed—whether that’s carrying the bouquet or the train of the dress as we move around, or tracking someone down for them during the busy day—I’m there not only to assist the photographer but to be part of the “all hands on deck” that’s required to put on an amazing wedding.




Photographing


As I previously mentioned, I have been able to do some second shooting, particularly at weddings, and now I will be adding to that by taking on some of my own shoots under the guidance of my boss! I can’t say too much about that yet but will share more as this part of my job grows. I could not be more excited to get continued opportunities to be behind the lens!




Overall, my experience as a photographer’s assistant has been both dynamic and rewarding, giving me the opportunity to grow through the mentorship of my boss. Whether I’m refining images through editing, capturing behind-the-scenes moments, supporting weddings, or beginning to take on my own shoots, each responsibility has helped me gain confidence and insight into the industry. As I continue to learn and take on new challenges, I’m excited to further develop my skills and contribute even more to the storytelling process behind every photograph.




Thanks for reading!