Finding a Work Flow

Over the years, I've learned that workflow is a very important thing. I used to edit photos in my own time, not having a set list of things I would do once I sat down at my desk. It worked because I was doing something, but it wasn't an efficient use of my time.

Now that my business is back up, I've been learning a few new things about workflow and about myself that have helped me to produce better content in a smaller amount of time.

1. Staying organized is always a recipe for success - I have always been a neat freak so this one isn't new to me, but getting organized is the most important thing you can do if you're not already. You'll spend less time sifting through old files and more time editing them, decrease added stress and have more time to get down to business. A great tool for me has been making hourly schedules - write down when you'll be working and for how long (this can be helpful when charging your clients for editing time). As long as you stick to your schedule, you'll be done sooner than you know it.

2. Have everything at your arm's reach - I have a problem with leaving gear and SD cards in different parts of my house, which leaves a recipe for running up and down the stairs multiple times in order to have what I need to start working. This can take away your valuable time! I've found that when I have everything I need in arm's reach, I can do more in less time and avoid some added cardio - everyone's happy.

3. Plan out your hours - As a student living at home, I have to find time to get my work done and be present in school and in my family every day. Thankfully summer is much more free than during the school year, but while I'm at home I've found that mornings and late nights are my best times to work. Here's my personal flow:

- An hour of work, with water at my side and no distractions

- A mind-wandering break - because I'm an artist! (normally 15 mins)

- Another hour of work

With card making, I like to finish my work in one sitting so this varies, but the hour-break-hour method is very reliable.

4. Take advice from experienced people in your field - In the end, you have to make your workflow your own, but it never hurts to see what the pros are doing. I found this article to be really helpful - it goes into the questions to ask yourself before you start working, file naming and all of the nerdy stuff us shutterbugs should know. And if you're a student, email a professor for advice - they are always willing to help!

5. As always, find your joy - If you're doing this because you love it, you should love it while you're doing it. I started both of my businesses because I find joy in doing them. If you keep in mind your "why", you can better accomplish your work and hold onto that joy. And I promise, that joy will produce some of your best work.

- - - - -

If you have any advice for improving your workflow - or a conversation you want to start - head on over to the comments section and share away!

Let's do some good work today ;)

- India