Set Assistant internship at Ruby Bird Studio in Brooklyn, NY with photographer Rebecca Handler. Found through a Craigslist ad; the first assignment sent me into the deep end for an underwater shoot.
Underwater Shoot
The first assignment: an underwater photoshoot. Strapped on a weighted belt and jumped into the deep end so the photographer could dial in focus and lighting.
80s Photoshoot
Art directed and assisted on an 80s-themed photoshoot: styled characters against a hot pink backdrop with full studio lighting. Storyboarded and created motion graphics for the makeup kit commercial: four characters (Lion, Vampire, Witch, Raggedy Ann) with scripted transitions and comic-style overlays.
Studio Life
Day-to-day at the studio: working with clients, setting up and breaking down sets, maintaining equipment, and learning the rhythm of professional production.
What I Learned
Client Work
Working directly with clients on set, understanding briefs, and delivering to their vision.
Set Operations
Full setup and breakdown of studio environments: backdrops, lighting, grip, props.
Art Direction
Conceptualizing and directing shoots, from storyboard to final frame.
Motion Graphics
Creating storyboards and animated content for commercial projects.
