When your assistant bails before a photoshoot: 1. Assess: Identify critical tasks, your capabilities, and available resources. 2. Communicate: Inform your client and adjust the schedule as needed. 3. Improvise: Delegate, utilize technology, and simplify if necessary. 4. Solve: Be resourceful, stay calm, and document everything. 5. Review: Debrief with the team and learn from the experience.

If my assistant bails before a critical shoot, I’d focus on staying calm and prioritizing. First, I’d quickly reassess the setup and decide what I can handle solo or delegate to other crew members on-site. Streamlining the workflow becomes key—focusing on the must-have shots and simplifying the process where possible. Communication is crucial, so I’d also let the client know about the situation (if needed) while assuring them the shoot is under control. Challenges like this remind me to always prepare for the unexpected and trust my ability to adapt.