Show Notes

As the year comes to a close, it is a natural point to reflect on our photography. It’s an important step to see where you’ve grown as an artist and find opportunities to stretch creatively. Now, 2020 has not been a normal year - and that is a big understatement. Nevertheless, there is value in reviewing your collection of photos from the past year. Take stock of what you did, and reflect on what worked and what didn’t work. Only when we measure our photography can we improve our photography.

I examined my 2020 work this past week. Listen to the podcast to hear about the things I discovered. Some were expected, others were surprising. I use a healthy amount of metadata when I review my past work. Most of it comes for free via the EXIF data captured by our camera. I also rely on ratings that I’ve added throughout the year. Have a listen to The Metadata Time Machine f/10 for thoughts about why I think it’s important (hint: you can do examinations like this!).

I looked at my work in four different ways:

1. By The Numbers: Have a look at how many photos entered your library in 2020, and how that compares to 2019. If you have a rating system, also measure your “keeper” rate, the percentage of photos in your library you consider your better work. Also, check the consistency of your photography throughout the year. Did you use your camera in bursts? Or did you consistently make photographs each month (which suggests continued, steady practice)?

2. Camera Settings & Gear: Look at the EXIF data for your photos and see if there are trends in how you use your cameras and lenses. Do you own multiple cameras, but largely use just one? Do you gravitate to certain focal lengths, shutter speeds, or apertures? Do you have a tried-and-true lens? The peaks in the data suggest what you’re comfortable and skilled with, and the valleys represent an opportunity to expand creatively.

3. Photo Content: Examine your keepers for the year. What trends are there in the content? Do you photograph the same types of subjects? Is there a particular composition style you use? Are there any themes with subject placement, time of day, or mood? Also, skim a grid of thumbnails and pay attention to the photos that jump off the page. What is it about the photo that catches your attention? Are there types of photos that are notably missing, such as panoramas, infrared, or close-ups? Consider both what is there and what isn’t there - both may represent a creative opportunity for the new year.

4. Post-Processing: Again, examine your keepers with an eye on the processing. Are there trends in the processing style, such as a hyper-realistic look or a subdued, natural feel? Were certain color palettes or color grading used? Is your work primarily in color or black & white?

This level of examination takes a little time, and I feel it is time well spent. Dedicate an hour or two to reviewing your photos. Use the points above as a guide. You’ll have a firmer footing on where you are creatively, and be poised to grow in 2021.

I’ll be back again in the new year. In the next podcast, I’ll talk about the opportunities I’ve identified with my photography and discuss the personal goals and projects I am planning for 2021.

Have a happy, wonderful, and safe new year!

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