The Photographer's Assistant [Paperback]

John Kieffer (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: February 1, 2001

This one-of-a-kind resource introduces aspiring photographers to the art and skill of assisting top-notch pros-an incomparable way to learn the field and launch one's own promising career in photography. Revised and expanded to include the latest information on multimedia, Internet, and CD-ROM developments, this reliable guide offers technical tips on camera equipment, lighting, surface preparation, studio and location shoots--all from the perspective of what the assistant must know.

Editorial Reviews

From Library Journal

These two offerings deal with the challenges and opportunities of earning income through professional photography, but each covers different areas. Kieffer, a knowledgeable and experienced photographer, has written a unique guide for students and aspiring photographers who would like to break into the profession and learn from the pros. One of a handful of books on this specialized position, it provides a thorough introduction to anyone who would like to work as an assistant. The book defines the position and outlines typical duties, including nonphotography work such as bookkeeping. Separate chapters address day-to-day work, including that pivotal first day on the job. The book also discusses film and other photographic materials, cameras and other equipment, digital imagery, and the studio from the perspective of the photographic assistant. In the concluding chapter, Kieffer appropriately discusses the transition from assistant to photographer. Sedge, a successful photojournalist, provides a very useful introduction to the business of photography. Although the book is geared toward photojournalists, anyone interested in the financial opportunities of professional photography will find the book quite valuable. Sedge covers virtually every aspect of setting up a small business financial management, legal considerations, marketing, distribution, and customer service. He provides expert advice on developing a marketing plan, expanding one's business, and taking advantage of the Internet, all from an international perspective. Sedge concludes with lists of resources, such as professional associations, books, and other publications. These excellent books are both highly recommended for photography and career collections in public and academic libraries. Raymond Bial, Parkland Coll. Lib., Champaign, IL
Copyright 2001 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Review

"...the steps necessary to learn the profession while acquiring and mastering technique." -- Photographic Society of America Journal

"Any assistant with a firm grasp of all the information in this book would certainly succeed.” -- Photo District News

“Mr. Kieffer is a patient teacher whose aim is to supply beginners with everything they need to know.” -- New York Times

“This book is by far the best guide to assisting that is available today." -- ASMP News

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 258 pages
• Publisher: Allworth Press (February 1, 2001)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1581150806
• ISBN-13: 978-1581150803
• Product Dimensions: 9.6 x 6.7 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.3 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (3 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #226,531 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
  • #55 in Books > Arts & Photography > Photography > Professional

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

2.0 out of 5 stars Look for something newer - insightful, January 25, 2010

By 

JRobillard - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Photographer's Assistant (Paperback)

I was disappointed in this book. It was published in 2001 but the material and focus seemed to be on technology available in the early 90's. The tips were pretty basic (don't clean lenses etc. on the set; do it in another room so you don't spill anything near/on the set) - no kidding. Save your money - browse through it at the library for a day before ordering and you'll see what I mean.

5.0 out of 5 stars The best book for learning photographic assisting., October 9, 2009

By 

John (Colorado, USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Photographer's Assistant (Paperback)

When I came across John Kieffer's book, it was just what I was searching for. I've been trying to be a photographer for several months, but was NOT getting anywhere. I didn't even know what assisting was, but The Photographer's Assistant really taught me a lot. Now I'm getting jobs as a photo assistant. I can actually make pretty good money, while I learn from the best professional photographers.

0 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars BEST INFO ON ADVERTISING PHOTOGRAPHY, March 10, 2000

By 

JON SILLA (Charlotte NC) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Photographer's Assistant (Paperback)

This book tells the real truth about working and running a studio,good for photographers and their assistants!