How did you get into the photography/video industry?
I got into the business of assisting on photoshoots from my work at the video production company, Atomic Spark.  Through my hard work and availability, I was able to pick up extra shifts and new opportunities in the photography business.  My experience in video helped me quickly adapt into the world of photography and made myself a great choice for an assistant.
What do you do on a shoot?
On photo shoots, I try to help out with everything possible.  I help out with packing and loading gear, making sure we have what we need for the day.  I will set up lights on stands, attach softboxes or barn doors, and safely run power to each light.  I also help adjust the lights to get the correct exposure for the shot.  Another part of my job as an assistant is to get behind the scenes shots.
How do you see your role growing or changing in the future?
My role as an assistant may evolve more into the social media aspect of the job.  With taking lots of behind the scenes photos and short videos, they can greatly capture people’s attention online.  Social Media has such a huge influence in such short times, it’s become very important to post creative content daily.
What’s your favourite part about being a photography assistant?
My favourite part of being an assistant is that every job is different.  You are not stuck behind a desk all day staring at a screen.  Instead, you are out on locations meeting new people in some pretty cool environments.  I love walking into a company, touring their entire facility, and seeing all the nice employees that are willing to help us out in any way we need to get the perfect shot.  Some places I have even come out of them with a souvenir after a good day’s work! Like my favourite, a miniature golden baseball glove, in replication of the Rawlings Gold Glove Award.
What are some bucket list items in your life?
I have already experienced so much in my 6 years as a video/photo assistant I can’t really think of anything else I would love to experience.  My passion as a videographer started with football, and just earlier this year I was able to visit Tim Hortons field, the home of the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, and meet a few of the players for an interview.  Now if we dream big, maybe one day I can get down to Dallas Texas and photo/interview some of the Dallas Cowboys players.