Post-Shoot Cull: The Aggressive Art of Selecting Your Best Photos

Original Article Shared: 2024-07-08

As a versatile photographer with over two decades of experience across multiple genres, I’ve learned that success hinges not just on capturing moments, but on delivering them efficiently. This is where the process starts with effective post-shoot cull.

The post-shoot cull is a critical process that separates the exceptional from the ordinary, especially vital for those of us dealing with high volumes of images from diverse assignments. It’s not just about freeing up storage space; it’s an exercise in artistic discernment, quality control, and efficient client delivery. During the post-shoot cull, we distill the essence of each project into a collection that truly represents our vision and skill, while meeting the varied expectations of our clients.

This blog is designed for photographers at all levels looking to refine their post-production process. By mastering the art of the aggressive cull, you’ll not only save time and storage space but also optimize your workflow, reduce post shoot fatigue and ensure that every image in your final collection truly deserves its place, and meet client delivery expectations.

The following process I use will allow you to:

1. Streamline your workflow for efficiency
2. Make confident, decisive selections
3. Elevate the overall quality of your portfolio

Let’s dive into the key steps of effective culling and take your photography, whether it’s event, wedding, or any other genre, to new heights.

Why Post-Shoot Cull at All?

The act of post-shoot culling might seem daunting, especially for photographers just starting out. In the early days of a photography career, it’s common to hold onto every image captured – the hits and the misses. Every photo feels like a step in your journey, a memory, a learning curve. Yet, as your portfolio grows, the need to be more selective becomes increasingly important.

Photography isn’t just about capturing a multitude of moments; it’s about telling a story, and not every shot tells your story effectively. Keeping every single image can lead to a cluttered portfolio. It’s like having a bookshelf filled with books you’ll never read again; it takes up space and makes it harder to find the books you truly love and want to show off.

In the digital world, this issue is magnified. Think about storage – with the growing size of digital files, managing space becomes a real concern. Regular culling helps keep your digital library manageable and organized. It’s not just about saving space on your hard drives; it’s about making your best work easily accessible and avoiding being overwhelmed by the sheer volume of less impactful images.

More than that, culling is a learning process. It’s about developing your eye for what works and what doesn’t in your photography. Which images stand out? Which ones represent your style and vision? It’s through this process of careful selection that you really start to refine your skills and understand your artistic voice.

My Trusted Tools for Post-Shoot Culling

So, culling isn’t about losing memories; it’s about focusing on quality, not quantity. It’s about building a collection of work that truly showcases your talent. For any photographer, whether just beginning or with years of experience, culling is a vital step in your artistic journey, helping you balance your emotional attachment to your work with the practical needs of a professional in a visually-driven world.

To effectively cull photos and streamline my post-processing workflow, I rely on a combination of powerful software tools and hardware. Each plays a crucial role in my aggressive photo culling process:

1. Photo Mechanic V6: This software is my first stop in the culling process. It’s been a staple on my desktop for years, providing unmatched efficiency for selecting the best photos quickly. Photo Mechanic’s speed in rendering RAW files and its intuitive interface make it ideal for the initial rounds of culling.
2. Adobe Lightroom : After narrowing down my selection in Photo Mechanic, Lightroom / Lightroom Classic is where I bring my images to life. Its comprehensive editing tools and catalog management system make it perfect for organizing and enhancing my selected photos. For photographers who prefer a single-software workflow, Lightroom can also be an effective tool for culling, which we’ll discuss later.
3. Adobe Photoshop: For those final touches that require a deeper dive, Photoshop is my go-to. It’s where the magic happens for advanced retouching and compositing.
   
4. Capture One – C1: While I prefer Lightroom Classic for most of my work, I also use Capture One for certain commercial shoots. Its robust tethering capabilities and color editing tools make it a favorite among some clients, especially for on-set work where familiarity with keyboard controls is crucial.
   
5. TourBox: In my workflow, I’ve found the TourBox to be an invaluable tool. However, it’s just one of many custom editing controllers available on the market. These devices are designed to work seamlessly with a wide range of creative software and are tailored for content creators, including photographers. While not a necessity, such controllers can significantly speed up the culling process, especially when dealing with large volumes of images from weddings, events, or extensive shoots.
   
   Options like the TourBox, Loupedeck, or Palette Gear offer programmable buttons, dials, and sliders that can be customized to your specific workflow needs. They can help streamline repetitive tasks, making the culling and editing process more efficient and ergonomic. The choice of device ultimately depends on your personal preferences, budget, and specific workflow requirements.

TourBox: Enhancing Efficiency Across the Entire Workflow

The TourBox has become a game-changer for me and my work, not just for my culling process, but for my entire post-processing workflow. Here’s how I’ve integrated this versatile tool:

• Custom Programming for Photo Mechanic: I’ve set up my TourBox specifically for Photo Mechanic, a process that took about 20 minutes but has dramatically improved my culling speed. This custom setup allows me to breeze through images, applying ratings and color codes with minimal hand movement.
• Lightroom and Photoshop Integration: Where the TourBox really shines is in its versatility. I’ve created profiles for both Lightroom and Photoshop, transforming how I interact with these powerful editing tools:
  • In Lightroom, the TourBox saves me from constantly switching between keyboard and mouse. I can quickly scroll through adjustment panels, fine-tune settings, and navigate between modules with ease.
  • For Photoshop, I’ve programmed the TourBox to handle everything from brush size adjustments to layer navigation, significantly speeding up my retouching process.
• Intuitive Controls: Across all software, the TourBox’s intuitive layout means I can keep my eyes on the image while my hands instinctively find the right controls. This has not only sped up my workflow but also reduced fatigue during long editing sessions.
• Workflow Continuity: By using the TourBox across my entire post-processing journey – from initial culling in Photo Mechanic to final touches in Photoshop – I’ve created a seamless, efficient workflow that feels natural and consistent.

For photographers handling large volumes of images or spending significant time in post-processing, a tool like the TourBox can be a worthwhile investment. It’s not just about reducing culling time; it’s about optimizing your entire workflow, from import to export. The time saved and the increase in efficiency can be substantial, allowing you to focus more on your creative vision and less on navigating software interfaces.

The Post-Shoot Cull Process:
A Step-by-Step Guide

Option 1: Culling and Rating with Photo Mechanic

My post-shoot culling process in Photo Mechanic is a dance of ruthless efficiency, keen attention to detail, and strategic rating. I use a two-pass method that not only culls but also sets the stage for efficient editing later:

First Pass: Aggressive Cull and Initial Rating

1. I move swiftly through images, using keyboard shortcuts for quick actions:
   • If an image doesn’t instantly spark interest, I mark it for deletion (I use the ‘X’ key).
   • For potential keepers, I use number keys to assign initial star ratings:
     • 3 stars for good images
     • 4 stars for great images
     • 5 stars for absolute standouts
   • I use color tags to categorize images (e.g., red for client selects, blue for personal favorites)
2. This pass is about quickly reducing the volume and creating an initial hierarchy. I’m looking for obvious technical flaws, poor compositions, or uninspiring shots.

Second Pass: Critical Review and Refined Rating

1. I work backwards from the end of the shoot, applying a more critical eye:
   • I increase the displayed image size, zooming in to 1/2 on my second screen.
   • I scrutinize for tack-sharp focus, particularly in critical areas like eyes in portraits.
   • I look for subtle details that might elevate or demote an image’s rating.
2. During this pass, I refine my ratings:
   • I might upgrade a 3-star to a 4-star if I notice exceptional details.
   • Conversely, I might downgrade or delete an image if I spot issues not apparent at first glance.
3. I pay special attention to sequences of similar shots, ensuring I keep only the best version.

By the end of this two-pass gauntlet, I’ve typically culled at least half of my initial selects, sometimes more. Every surviving image is not just a keeper, but a standout, with a rating that reflects its quality and potential.

Advanced Step: Metadata and Keyword Tagging

After culling and rating, I take advantage of Photo Mechanic’s robust metadata capabilities:

1. Batch Metadata: I apply common metadata (like copyright information, location, and event details) to all selected images.
2. Individual Metadata: For key images, I add specific descriptions or notes that will be useful in the editing phase.
3. Keyword Tagging: I use Photo Mechanic’s hierarchical keywording feature to add detailed, searchable tags to my images. This might include:
   • Subject matter (e.g., “portrait”, “landscape”, “event”)
   • Specific elements in the image (e.g., “sunset”, “beach”, “urban”)
   • Emotional keywords (e.g., “joyful”, “serene”, “dramatic”)
   • Technical keywords (e.g., “wide-angle”, “macro”, “long-exposure”)
4. Code Replacement: I use Photo Mechanic’s code replacement feature to quickly insert commonly used keyword sets or phrases.
5. AI-Assisted Keywording: As technology evolves, so do our techniques. I’ve been experimenting with using Large Language Models (LLMs) to generate more comprehensive and creative keyword sets. If you’re interested in cutting-edge approaches to keywording, check out my recent blog post: “Effective Keywords Prompt: Unleashing the Power of AI for Photo Tagging”
   It’s a fascinating way to enhance your keywording process and potentially uncover tags you might not have thought of otherwise.

This metadata and keywording process, while time-consuming, pays substantial dividends in the long run. It not only makes my image library more searchable and my editing process more efficient but also plays a crucial role in today’s AI-driven world. As Large Language Models (LLMs) and AI technologies continue to evolve, comprehensive metadata ensures our rights as photographers are protected and our work is properly attributed. I can quickly find and group images based on various criteria, streamlining future projects and client requests. Moreover, with well-organized metadata, my editing process becomes more focused and productive.

By the time I move to the next stage of my workflow – be it Lightroom, Capture One, or another editing software – I’m not just working with the best images, but with a set of photos that are well-organized, thoughtfully rated, and rich with metadata. This comprehensive approach in Photo Mechanic sets the foundation for a smooth and efficient editing process, while also future-proofing my work in an increasingly influenced industry.

Tips for Culling Photos Faster:

• Use keyboard shortcuts to speed up the process
• Set up a consistent rating system (e.g., 3-5 stars for potential keepers)
• Use color labels to categorize images (e.g., red for client selects, blue for personal favorites)
• Take advantage of Photo Mechanic’s compare view to quickly decide between similar shots

Throughout this entire process, I use a systematic approach to grading and color-coding. Ratings from three to five stars help me categorize images based on their potential and immediate impact. Images marked with additional color tags are those that demand a second look, often due to their unique qualities or because they perfectly encapsulate the essence of the shoot.

Alongside this, I infuse metadata to each image, adding layers of context – be it location, subject, or the story behind the shot. This not only aids in organization but also embeds a narrative into my digital library, turning it into a well-curated collection of stories and experiences.

Option 2: Continuing the Cull in Lightroom Classic

If you’ve already done an initial cull in Photo Mechanic, you can seamlessly continue the process in Lightroom:

1. Import Your Images: When importing your photos into Lightroom, make sure to check “Preserve File Name” in the File Handling panel. This ensures that any ratings or color labels applied in Photo Mechanic are carried over.
2. Review Existing Ratings: In the Library module, use the Grid view (G) to see all your imported images. Your star ratings and color labels from Photo Mechanic should be visible.
3. Refine Your Selection: Use Lightroom’s tools to further refine your selection:
   • Use the ‘P’ key to flag picks or ‘X’ for rejects.
   • Adjust star ratings if needed using number keys 1-5.
   • Use color labels to categorize images further.
4. Filter View: Use filters to show only flagged photos or photos with certain star ratings to focus on your pre-selected images.
5. Compare View: Use the Compare view (C) to directly compare two images side by side, helping you make final decisions among your top picks.
6. Zoom to Check Details: Use the zoom tool to check for focus and fine details, especially for images you’re unsure about.
7. Delete Rejects: Once you’ve completed your refined cull, filter to show only the rejected photos (X flag) and delete them. Go to Photo > Delete Rejected Photos.

Option 3: Finalizing the Cull in Capture One (C1)

If you’re moving from Photo Mechanic to Capture One, here’s how to continue your culling process:

1. Import with Metadata: When importing into Capture One, ensure that “Ignore file extensions when sorting” is unchecked in the import dialog. This preserves the ratings and color tags from Photo Mechanic.
2. Review Existing Selections: In the Browser view, you’ll see your existing star ratings and color tags from Photo Mechanic.
3. Refine Your Selection: Use Capture One’s tools to further refine your cull:
   • Adjust star ratings if needed using number keys 1-5.
   • Use color tags (1-7) for additional categorization.
   • Create albums or smart albums based on your existing ratings for easier management.
4. Focus Checking: Use the Focus tool to verify critical sharpness on your top-rated images.
5. Compare View: Use the Compare variant mode to make final decisions between similarly rated images.
6. Session Folders: If using a session, move your final selections to the Selects folder for a clear separation of your culled images.
7. Delete Rejects: Once you’re satisfied with your refined selection, filter for low-rated images and delete them if desired.

Tips for Continuing Your Cull Across Platforms

1. Maintain Consistency: Try to use the same rating system across all platforms for seamless transitions.
2. Verify Metadata Transfer: Always double-check that your ratings and labels have transferred correctly when moving between software.
3. Incremental Culling: Use each stage of your workflow to incrementally refine your selection, getting more critical as you progress.
4. Leverage Software Strengths: Use the unique strengths of each software – Photo Mechanic for speed, Lightroom for organization, Capture One for color assessment – to make the most informed decisions.
5. Back Up Before Deleting: Before deleting any rejects in your final culling stage, ensure you have a backup of your original files.

By effectively transitioning your culling process across different software, you ensure a thorough and consistent selection process, resulting in a final set of images that truly represents your best work.

Remember, the goal of culling isn’t just to reduce the number of images, but to elevate the overall quality of your body of work. It’s a critical skill that separates professional-grade photography from amateur snapshots.

Step 3: Final Touches in Photoshop

Once the streamlined selection from Lightroom is ready, I move to Photoshop for the final leg of my post-shoot process:

1. Advanced Retouching: Photoshop’s advanced toolset allows for a level of precision and creativity that is unparalleled. Here, I can delve into intricate retouching, composite work, or add those subtle enhancements that elevate a good image to a great one.
2. Creative Enhancements: This stage is where I add my signature touch, infusing each image with a piece of my artistic identity such as any colour grading, black and white conversions etc.
3. Final Review: Before exporting, I take one last look at each image, ensuring it meets my standards for quality and aligns with my unique aesthetic. I then save back to Lightroom to the finalize and export.

The Philosophy Behind the Post-Shoot Cull

In photography, every image tells a story, but not every story needs to be told. This is the guiding philosophy behind my post-shoot cull process. Here’s why it’s crucial:

1. Space Management: High-resolution photography produces raw files that can exceed 40MB each, making space a premium commodity. Holding onto unused images wastes valuable space and reduces efficiency.
2. Portfolio Curation: My gallery is a curated exhibition of my best work, reflecting my skill and vision without being cluttered by ‘maybes’ and ‘almost’ shots.
3. Artistic Growth: Culling is more than deleting files; it shapes the narrative of my artistic identity. Each session is an opportunity for self-reflection and growth, assessing shots for composition, emotional impact, and technical precision.
4. Efficiency: Efficient culling is essential for managing resources wisely, ensuring that my time, energy, and storage are invested in images with potential.

Wrap-Up: Why I’m Obsessed with Post-Shoot Culling

Look, I’ll be honest – the post-shoot cull isn’t just another box to tick off in my workflow. It’s become a bit of an obsession for me over the years. This isn’t about simply tidying up my hard drives (though that’s a nice bonus). It’s about pushing my work to be better, every single time I pick up my camera.

I’ve been at this photography game for a while now, and I can tell you, my approach to culling has had as much impact on my work as any fancy new lens or camera body. It’s shaped how I see my own work, helped me zero in on what really matters in an image, and honestly, it’s made me a better shooter.

When I talk about “aggressive” culling, I’m not kidding around. It’s not always easy to hit that delete button, but the payoff is worth it. Every time I cull, I’m not just cleaning house – I’m refining my vision, honing my style, and making sure that every image that makes the cut is there for a reason.

The Impact of Effective Culling

1. Quality-Focused Portfolio: By ruthlessly selecting only the best images, you ensure that every photograph in your collection truly represents your vision and skill.
2. Efficient Workflow: A streamlined library means less time searching for images and more time creating.
3. Artistic Growth: The culling process forces you to critically evaluate your work, helping you identify strengths and areas for improvement in your photography.
4. Client Satisfaction: Presenting a tightly curated selection to clients shows professionalism and respect for their time.
5. Technical Improvement: Regularly assessing images for technical quality helps you refine your shooting techniques.

Cultivating the Culling Skill

Remember, culling is a skill that improves with practice. As you develop your eye and refine your process, you’ll notice significant changes:

• Your portfolio will become stronger and more cohesive.
• Your editing process will become more efficient and purposeful.
• Your artistic voice will become clearer and more distinctive.
• You’ll start to see improvements in your shooting, as you become more aware of what makes a truly great photograph.

A Call to Action for All Photographers

Whether you’re a seasoned professional with decades of experience or a passionate newcomer just starting your photographic journey, I encourage you to embrace the post-shoot cull as a critical step in your creative process. It’s not just about deleting bad photos – it’s about curating a collection that truly represents your vision, skill, and artistic identity.

Start small if you need to. Begin by being more selective with a single shoot, then gradually apply the process to your entire workflow. You may find it challenging at first, but the results will speak for themselves.

Join the Conversation

I’m always eager to hear about other photographers’ experiences and techniques. How do you approach your post-shoot cull? What challenges have you faced, and what victories have you celebrated?

Feel free to reach out and share your thoughts:

• Visit my website blog for more in-depth articles and resources
• Join me for a conversation on Threads (META)

Let’s continue to push the boundaries of our art, one carefully curated image at a time. Remember, every great photograph you keep makes your rejected images worthwhile. Happy culling!

Footnote:

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