With the advent of digital photography, and by extension the improved quality of the camera on cell phones, we are taking more photographs than ever before. We take photos with great abandonment and spontaneity! On my own phone, I have shots ranging from collision damage on my car to bugs and wildlife to recipes from magazines to family activities. Was I ever asked for a photo of the car damage? No - delete. Do I need to keep portraits of bugs and or little critters? No - delete. Can I actually read the print on that recipe and will I realistically ever make it? Not clearly and not likely, so no - delete. As for the family shots, will I share it? If not - well, you know where this is headed….
So what’s my advice?
Shoot fewer! Yes, “film” is free when taking digital shots, but that doesn’t mean taking dozens or even hundreds of shots hoping for that ONE perfect image. Will you have the patience to review them all later, to find that perfect picture? Didn’t think so!
Only save that worth saving. It doesn’t have to be perfect but it does have to resonate with you. Be mindful of why you took the picture and the quality of the result.
Rule of thumb - keep 1/3 of original shots and let the rest go. Choose a combination of technically good images as well as ones that evoke the most emotion to edit and keep.
Delete at source (phone or camera). By making decisions early, you create less work when you download, tag and edit
Add this task to an existing habit or activity - charging your device, waiting in line or for an appointment or watching television? Multi task and delete.
Taking lots of photos is fun but keep your digital volume under control - use the delete button to edit, edit, edit!
About the Author:
This blog was written by Kathleen Creighton, a certified photo organizer. Pictures in Place is a Photo Organzining Company. Please contact info@picturesinplace.ca to discuss your project.
