In the latest episode of The Wild Photographer, I delve into my comprehensive workflow for downloading, processing, and storing digital photos. This process ensures that each captured moment is preserved and readily accessible. Here's a step-by-step guide to my approach:
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1. Memory Card Management
Immediate Backup: After a shoot, I promptly transfer photos from the memory card to my computer to prevent data loss. I always make sure I have at least two copies of all raw files, but tend to work from the copy that is on my laptop hard drive itself.
Organized Storage: Images are sorted into folders named by date and location, facilitating easy retrieval. By having all photos, including raws, in one single file, it allows me to copy and paste to backup drives when ready or if needed later.
2. Photo Culling and Rating
Initial Review: I personally use Adobe Camera Raw, which is just like Lightroom, but without the file storage and management features. When it's time to cull and sort my photos, I conduct a preliminary pass to eliminate unusable shots. Anything out of focus or highly repetitive gets a "zero" rating and will eventually be deleted.
Rating System: I employ a star-rating system to categorize images based on quality and potential, streamlining the editing process. Detailed info on exactly how I use star ratings in the podcast episode.
3. Editing Process
Basic Adjustments: I begin with global edits, adjusting exposure, contrast, and white balance to enhance the overall image. I also toy with "auto" to see what the computer thinks, and then may make my own adjustments based on findings.
Advanced Techniques: For detailed refinements, I utilize tools like gradient, radial and brush masks for precision editing in Adobe Camera Raw (similar to Lightroom).
4. Finalizing and Exporting
Consistency Check: Ensuring a uniform look across the photo series maintains a cohesive visual narrative. Before I finish, I go back through every photo, even those that are lower rated, to ensure I edit and process a representative sample of the entire photo expedition.
Export Settings: I export images in formats suitable for their intended use, whether for web display or print. This is 99% of the time in highest resolution JPEG with copyright and metadata linked in the photo file.
5. Long-Term Storage
External Drives: High-quality external drives, such as those from Western Digital, are used for backup, providing an extra layer of security. I personally have two redundant 8TB drives that store my raw files, and only final JPEGs live on my readily accessible laptop hard drive or travel SSD drives.
Cloud Storage: Utilizing cloud services offers redundancy and remote access to the photo library. However, I don't rely on this and instead rely on actual copies on my drives.
By adhering to this structured workflow, I ensure that each photograph is not only preserved but also optimized for sharing and easy retrieval, which helps me act swiftly with the important storytelling aspect of my work. I never let my photos just sit, and aim to do all of this in the week immediately following a trip.
This meticulous approach allows me to focus on the creative aspects of photography, knowing that the technical details are well-managed.
For a more in-depth exploration of this process, including personal anecdotes and additional tips, listen to the full episode of The Wild Photographer here.
Happy shooting, friends!
Court
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