Top 10 Things to Avoid as a Photography Assistant

Working as a photo assistant can be a highly rewarding experience, but it also comes with its own set of challenges and expectations. To make the most of the opportunity and build a strong reputation in the industry, it's crucial to know not only what to do but also what to avoid. Here are some common pitfalls that can hinder your success as a photography assistant.

Please note: This list is neither exhaustive nor has anyone in the history of photography been free of mistakes. I've made many of these errors myself for various reasons during my career as a photo assistant. I didn't write this to blame you or other assistants but to create awareness and help you make fewer mistakes than I did. You're welcome. 🙂

Let's explore the top 10 mistakes you can make as a photography assistant:

One of the most important qualities of a good assistant is the ability to anticipate the photographer’s needs. Avoid zoning out or waiting to be told what to do; instead, stay aware of what's happening on set. Watch the photographer closely and be proactive. For example, if you see that a battery is running low, replace it before it dies. If the lighting needs adjusting, have the necessary tools ready. Missing an opportunity to be helpful can slow down the shoot and reflect poorly on you.

While it’s great to be eager and enthusiastic, it’s important to know your role and respect the photographer’s creative direction. Don’t offer unsolicited advice, change camera settings without permission, or interrupt the photographer while they're working with the client or subject. Your job is to support, not to take over. If the photographer seeks your opinion, be honest but respectful.

Failing to come prepared can make you look unprofessional and could disrupt the shoot. Make sure you:

Your behavior and demeanor on set are critical to how you’re perceived by the photographer, clients, and other team members. Avoid any unprofessional conduct, such as:

Respect the privacy and confidentiality of the photographer and the clients. Don’t take behind-the-scenes photos for your own use or share images from the shoot without explicit permission from the photographer. Often, shoots will involve sensitive or proprietary content, and sharing anything from the set could jeopardize both your position and the photographer's trust in you.

Your attire should be comfortable yet professional, allowing you to move freely and perform tasks without hindrance. Always dress according to the nature of the shoot; for example, if it’s a formal event like a wedding, wear something neat and unobtrusive. On the other hand, if you’re working outdoors or in a studio, wear comfortable clothing and shoes that allow you to be active. Avoid clothing that is too flashy, revealing, or could be distracting on set.

Communication is key when assisting, but it's important to find the right balance. Avoid:

Avoid standing around waiting for instructions or only doing the bare minimum. If you see something that needs to be done—like setting up lighting, moving props, or tidying the area—take the initiative to handle it. A passive assistant who waits to be told every step of the way can slow down the shoot and make the photographer's job harder. Show that you’re engaged, active, and always looking for ways to contribute.

If you’ve been asked to complete a task or handle something after the shoot, such as file management, retouching, or returning rental gear, don’t neglect it. Failing to follow up on your responsibilities can hurt the photographer’s workflow and damage your reputation as a reliable assistant. Take notes if needed, and make sure you complete all post-shoot tasks on time and to a high standard.

Working on a photo shoot can be stressful, especially when things don’t go as planned or the workload becomes overwhelming. However, it's essential to keep a positive, solution-focused attitude. Avoid complaining about long hours, tough tasks, or problems that arise. Being a source of encouragement and maintaining your composure under pressure will not only make the shoot more pleasant for everyone but will also leave a strong impression on the photographer.