7 Post Production Time Saving Tips for Digital Photographers

When it comes to digital photography, shooting the photograph is only half the battle. The real time-consuming work is all of the post processing. If you're working on a number of photos and trying to save yourself some time, these tips are sure to come in handy.

1. Keep a constant workflow

The easiest way to shave time off of your post production is to have a steady, constant workflow. The actual process itself doesn't matter, but after producing a few photos, you will start to enter an autopilot mode. You'll have a routine to follow and will be able to knock out images much faster.

2. Process different types of photos separately

Many photographers have a range of different styles of photographs in every photo shoot. The easiest way to handle this situation is to allow yourself to enter into autopilot by keeping that constant workflow mentioned above. Separate your photos into stylistic themes before starting.

3. Decide what you want before you start

There are times when you may simply want to play and experiment with a particular image. However, if you're trying to save yourself time or if you're trying to make a deadline, it's best to decide your goals before you begin.

4. Make big changes first

Converting to grayscale? Get that out of the way first. Big changes like exposure correction and drastic color changes should always be processed first - this method keeps you from tinkering a photo to death and prevents small changes from ruining the "look" of your photo.

5. Keep all files organized

The number one way photographers lose time in post production: disorganization that forces them to search through dozens, hundreds, or even thousands of files to find that one that they're looking for. It happens to the best of us.

Everyone has their own system that they swear by, so the best thing to do is work out your own. Personally, I separate everything by date first and theme second. Everything is carefully labeled so that I can find my files quickly and efficiently.

6. Take occasional breaks

Even though it seems counter-intuitive, taking a quick, ten minute break every hour or so will do wonders for your productivity. By allowing your eyes and brain to take a break, your energy level will enjoy a boost. Be careful to keep your breaks at around 10-15 minutes, though; too long will cause your mind to go on vacation and will make it more difficult for you to get back to work.

7. Adjust crop ratios while saving

If you intend to print your images in a standard format (ex: 4"x6", 5"x7", 8"x10", etc.), the easiest time to crop these ratios is while you're saving the first time. If you crop and organize when you're working on the image, you won't have to search through all of your images, open it, edit, and save again.