Snap ring removal tips please

[Great Lakes Greg]

On the transmission input shaft, there is a snap ring about a quarter inch wide that holds the bearing onto the shaft. My brother held it open with a pair of needle nose pliers while I stuck a little screw driver behind it for removal. There has got to be an easier way that does not require three hands. Note: holding my tongue to the left and right out my mouth did not seem to make a difference. What say you experts?