PhotoAssistant

Totally, getting close to the camera would be a big no no.

Thank you so much Mike for your insightful replies. I agree with your comments regarding Testino and that he simply might be having assistants to simply make sure camera is in correct settings. Also, watched a video of Avedon where he was photographing a car.. his assistant set up his camera and then he asked "where should I press?" and that he did. I think having a vision is more important than know ing how to use all sorts of camera great and lights. Thanks again for all your advice

Here you can see Testio focusing himslef and seems the asistant is just ready to take the camera from the lens to reload film? It is better visible in the video.

Thanks @Nick D.for your comment. They could simply be adjusting the focus based on the distance. Se this pic from a Youtube video below

Hi all, New member here. I am looking to take on assisting roles. I have seen photographer assistants touching the lens while the photographer is taking pictures. In a very fast-paced shoot like "Bruce Weber shooting Michael Jackson," one assistant keeps adjusting the aperture (that's what I think they're doing)" Or are they adjusting the focus based on the distance marking on the lens? How does it work? Would appreciate it if you could give me so info about it. Thanks