After the Shoot: How to Choose the Best Images and Use Them Effectively

Jun 10

So, you’ve wrapped up your photo shoot, and now you're sitting on a digital mountain of images. Whether you’re a bride-to-be obsessing over every detail or a brand manager looking to nail that perfect campaign shot, choosing the right images can be as daunting as deciding what Netflix series to commit to next. But fear not! As your go-to San Diego photographer, I’m here to guide you through the maze of selecting the best snaps and putting them to damn good use.

black woman with dreads holding vinyl record while sitting on black chair. Wearing gray sweater and blue denim pants

Step 1: Don’t Rush the Process

Take a breath—seriously, don’t rush this. Grab a glass of wine or a cold brew, and start by quickly scrolling through the images. Flag any that make you stop, smile, or swear under your breath because they’re so spot-on.

Step 2: Look for the Magic Moments

Whether it’s the light catching your eye just right or that spontaneous laugh during a corporate shoot, magic moments make for powerful images. These are the shots that resonate because they’re full of life. Sometimes, the imperfect ones—where not everyone is perfectly posed or looking at the camera—are the ones that tell the truest stories.

Step 3: Consider the End Use

Think about where these images will end up. Instagram? Your living room wall? A glossy magazine? Different platforms and uses might benefit from different types of shots. For instance, that epic wide-angle of you laughing on the beach might be perfect for your Facebook banner, while a close-up might be just right for professional LinkedIn profiles.

Step 4: Mix It Up

Variety is the spice of life—and of photo selections. Choose a mix of close-ups, action shots, and wide angles to keep things interesting. If you’re a brand, this gives you a versatile toolkit for different marketing needs. If you’re choosing wedding photos, you’ll appreciate having both those epic kiss shots and the candid dance floor disasters.

Step 5: Get a Second Opinion

When in doubt, drag a friend into it or shoot your photographer an email. Sometimes, a fresh pair of eyes can spot the winners you might have glossed over. Plus, it’s a great excuse to relive the fun moments as you go through them together.

Final Thoughts: Trust Your Gut

At the end of the day, the best images are the ones that make you feel something. Trust your gut. Those are the keepers.

As a seasoned photographer based in Southern California, I’ve helped countless clients from San Diego to Santa Barbara find their perfect shots. Remember, the goal isn’t just to choose pictures; it’s to choose memories. And maybe to make your friends a tad jealous on Instagram.

So, use these tips to sift through your shots and find the gold. Because trust me, nothing beats the feeling of looking at a photo and thinking, “Damn, we look good!”

Happy picking, and remember, I’m just a call away if you need to curse about how hard it is to choose—or if you need more shots to make the decision even tougher.

Remember, not every shot will be perfect, and that’s okay! Trust your photographer and the process. Photography is a craft, and your session is a collaborative art project. Enjoy the ride!