Why Every Photographer Needs a Consistent, Predictable Routine
Before I was a photographer, I was an elementary school teacher. And one thing that was drilled into my head in teaching school is the need for what my professors referred to as a “consistent, predictable routine”.
What is a Consistent, Predictable Routine?
A consistent, predictable routine (C.P.R.) is a set of tasks that you do the same way in the same order, every day until it becomes muscle memory.
Why Consistent, Predictable Routines Matter.
As a teacher, having a consistent, predictable routine gives students a sense of mastery. If they know what to expect, they will feel more in control and will be more successful in the classroom.
As a photographer, consistent, predictable routines, works the same. Having an established set of tasks that you do the same way, in the same order at every shoot gives you a sense of mastery and your sessions a smooth flow. When a routine is established, mechanics of what you’re doing will become second nature, and your focus can be placed where it should be: on your clients.
Do All Photographers Rely on an Established Routine?
Every successful photographer I know has their own consistent, predictable routine in place. For some, it’s as simple as having a shot list in mind or an arsenal of go-to poses that they use at every session. Some have a complete session flow established.
I have a C.P.R for lighting.
I light each and every session the same way, regardless of if I’m working with newborns, small children, families or individuals.
Knowing the kind of light I like to work with as well as how to produce it, gives my work consistency.
I know how to produce the look I want when using a window, and I know how to produce the look I want when using strobes or flash. That means that each and every client who stands in front of my camera will get images consistent with the images I share in my portfolio and on Instagram. And that is one of the main reasons that I have such a strong brand and strong business.
How to Create Your Lighting C.P.R.
Start by noticing the kind of light you like to work with. Is your style dark and moody? Light and airy? What are you drawn to?
Next, pay attention to the way you use light to create your particular style. As you pay attention you’ll start to notice patterns in the way you approach your lighting from shoot to shoot. Pay attention to those patterns. Doing them with intention is how you begin to develop, your routine, and over time, your style and your brand.
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