Teamwork makes the dream work| Atlanta Child Photographer

Yesterday, I had the pleasure of assisting my good friend and fellow photographer, Tiffany Powell of Tiffany Powell Photography with a high school senior session she had. I met Tiffany a few years ago. We were just talking about how we met but we weren’t really sure. We believe it was at an annual photography conference. Anyway, she, like me, tends to work alone for most of her sessions. Since this most recent session involved multiple locations with different lighting scenarios, she decided that she would like some assistance. Normally, when she asks for assistance, either my schedule doesn’t allow it or someone beats me to the punch. These types of opportunities are great for newbies who want to learn. I use it as an opportunity to see my friend and help her out. With COVID going on these days, it’s hard to see anyone in-person. By the way, we all were masked up!

The day started early. I was driving down 285 when Tiffany texted and then called me to see where I was. Not that she was worried about me being late but because her client forgot to bring her volleyball for the session. Yes, she’s a volleyball player. So, I stopped off at Target and picked up a ball and net for her. When I got there, they were finishing up the hair and makeup. The family had driven up from Warner Robbins for this session. It was actually supposed to take place the day before but they got their dates mixed up. Luckily, Tiffany was able to make room for them on her calendar. They had flown from San Antonio, Texas on Saturday so it would have been awful if they came all this way and couldn’t have the session.

The first location we went to was a parking deck because her client wanted images with the skyline behind her. To be honest, we weren’t supposed to be there. Not that it was illegal, it was just that they didn’t want people parking up there for some reason. Anyway, while up there we experienced a lot of wind and cold and some type of siren went off. We didn’t know what was happening. We thought security was coming. They weren’t. We were just paranoid. Me being a rule follower was making me a bit anxious as well. Regardless of the situation, she was able to get the images she needed. But before we left, another siren went off in a different location. We were beginning to wonder if there really was some type of emergency or if the whole cavalry was coming for us. Nope, just paranoia again. 

Next, we went back to the studio for some indoor and outdoor shots. Some of my assistant duties were as a model for lighting setups, as well as a light stand and a shlepper of things. That’s part of being a photography assistant. I enjoyed helping her out, plus it’s always nice to see how other photographers work. I even filmed some behind the scenes for her. Unfortunately, I can’t share those videos with you because I don’t have a model release from her client. Perhaps you’ll see them somewhere on the internet. Let’s hope.

Anyway, I was glad that I was able to help her out. We had a great time and she produced some beautiful images. She probably could have handled the session by herself but sometimes it’s good to ask for help. It’s also good to have a network of friends who can help you out when you need it. I know I’m thankful for my family, friends, and support system in general. Thanksgiving is tomorrow so what are you thankful for?

“We make a living by what we get, we make a life by what we give.” ~ Winston Churchill