In all my years of printing and teaching printing workshops, the single most important thing…
Time management is a huge issue for many photographers, especially when it involves finding the time to be creative. Yet the only way to improve as a photographer is to dedicate as much time as possible to your craft, and that involves everything from shooting in the field, to post processing on the computer, and presenting your work. One of my favorite quotes is from photographer David Ward, who says that “time is the best investment you can make in your photography.”
For me this is so true, which is why I dedicate as much time as possible to improving my work as a photographer. In addition, there are many other areas of creativity that can improve your photography tremendously. I read as much as possible on a variety of topics, look at other art forms regularly, and I’m trying to develop a habit of creative writing for 20-30 minutes each day.
But even with the best intentions, there are always distractions and obstacles, and recently I came across an excellent ebook by Mark McGuiness called “Time Management for Creative People”. I read it cover to cover in one sitting, and have since re-read it to further try and apply many of the concepts Mark explains in the book. Best of all, it is free!
If you’re a photographer (or just like being creative) and have any interest in finding more time to dedicate to creativity, I highly recommend Mark’s book. Check out Mark’s other free ebooks on the Wishful Thinking Blog.
Hi Robert, I downloaded Mark’s book, but found out by reading it I was doing exactly what he recommends against, namely to read e-mails early in the day and get distracted by following the links and then you are way off task from your important work for the day, LOL and groaning all at once. The Four Priority quadrant I have heard of before and it is quite helpful. They teach that in the Franklin-Covey workshops. I do look forward to reading the rest of the book when I have TIME. Good suggestion though, based on what I read so far.
Hi Dave – yes I do the same thing, but have been slowly trying to change my habits – so hard when so much of your work lives online…but I do see the value in what the book advises. Most things are really not that critical, and getting to doing real work is what matters. thanks for the feedback.
RR
I really like the bridge shot, Robert. I was quite taken by the bridges on the Hudson when we were in NY this December. I like your pano take on this and the tones are lovely.
Sharon
Hi Sharon – thanks so much – I really visualized it as a color image, but just couldn’t get it to work afterwards. When I tried the conversion, it really came alive for me tonality wise, and so sometimes you never know what to expect when you’re just reacting to the moment. Thanks for the generous feedback!
RR
The bridge photograph is breathtaking. I love The Golden Gate Bridge.
Anyway, great post. Time management is an excellent skill to have.
Thanks Trudy for the very generous and kind words! Thanks also for stopping by – I will check out your ebook as soon as I get a minute to stop by your site!
Best, RR