Coming back

My key to retention is writing things down, and new photo information has become an everyday thing lately. So, in an effort to remember, share, and (hopefully) reference these ideas, I'm back at the blogging efforts.

The ease of camera access has made everyone a self-proclaimed photographer, but there are a lot of small things I see my photog role models doing that sets them apart from the hobbyists.

The time spent away from a shoot is quite possibly more important than the time you spend shooting. Preparing is absolutely critical, and it goes beyond charging batteries and clearing cards. Being truly prepared for a shoot is doing your research, studying all you can about your subject, your gear, your technique, the market, what other photogs are doing, etc.

I keep a running list of things I want to study/learn. Sometimes items stay on the list for months, sometimes just until I get home that day. The important part is creating the buffer of topics, and using it as a guide when you have downtime.

I make wishlists. Sometimes I actually end up getting the funding for these items, but most of the time it shows me what I want to research. Before I purchase a product that will hopefully have a positive impact on my career I want to know that it is the absolute best option on the market. Not only do I have to research that particular product, but I end up researching all comparable products. It keeps me up-to-date on trends and gear, and it assures I make prudent purchases.

I recently watched "Jiro Dreams of Sushi", an amazing documentary about the dedication and discipline of a simple man with an amazing talent. The sushi is simply a medium. The true talent is the ability to master a craft through hard work and persistence. You have to live your passion, and never shy away from challenges.

Am I OCD? Just slightly. After every shoot, gear goes back exactly as it was. I wind cables the same way, I place lenses in the same pockets, I even put my camera on a specific setting before storing it. I'm sure it sounds slightly overboard, but guess what, it is there every time I go to shoot, and whenever a story breaks. In the world of photojournalist if you miss a story you don't get paid. So, every little thing I can do to master my ability to deliver a quality, timely story just adds to my job security, and puts me a few steps ahead of the competition.

They're somewhat scattered, but hopefully these thought help fellow photographers at some point. I plan to be more consistent. I need the outlet for my ideas. So for now this will be my photo journal.