How do you reach out to photographers to assist them?
Edit: I’m based in London
I've been shooting for a few years and there are some photographers whose work I really enjoy. I want to create work at that level and I genuinely believe the fastest way to get there is to be in the room with people who are already doing it.
Right now I work in a large ecomm studio (not the most creative environment but it's taught me a lot about working efficiently with equipment and getting the light right consistently)
I recently found out I have a connection to one of the photographers through their ex-assistant (who is also a fantastic photographer but in a different genre).
A few things I'm genuinely unsure about - would love any advice:
• Is cold outreach (email vs DM) ever worth it?
• What should a first message actually say and what should it definitely not say?
• How polished does your portfolio need to be before you even reach out? (mine's in my profile if anyone wants to take a look)
• Is offering to assist for free (an extra pair of hands) normal or does that come across as undercutting?
(I can share websites of photographers I’m interested in, if that helps!)
Edit: thank you all for the helpful suggestions!