One strategy I use to improve my photo collection, and make my life easier, is to create a simple photo plan for special events. Over the years, I noticed that I often take the same types of photos at family events, holidays, and celebrations. My kids’ birthday parties, for instance, always followed a predictable photo pattern.
At each birthday party, I used to take tons of photos: pictures of the activities at the party, the kids gathered around the table waiting for cake, the birthday kiddo with their cake, candle-blowing moments, and, of course, the present unwrapping. I’d often end up with 30 or more photos from each party, hoping they’d capture the day.
But here’s what I found: each year, when I created our annual family photo book, I only needed five or six photos to tell the story of each birthday party. I usually chose a great picture of the birthday kiddo, a photo of the main activity at the party, a shot of the kids celebrating together, one of the birthday kid with their cake, and maybe one or two more to share something special from the day. With just those five or six photos, I could perfectly capture the spirit of each birthday celebration.
Once I realized this, I started making a photo plan. I focused on capturing just those five or six meaningful photos and making sure they were good pictures. Then I’d put my camera away and enjoy the party. Afterward, I’d delete any extra pictures, leaving me with fewer than 10 photos from the event. This simple plan saved me so much time! I had all the photos I needed to tell the story, and it was easy to find the best shots without endless scrolling or decision fatigue.
Now, before every holiday or special event, I take a moment to think about the story I want to tell and the specific photos I’ll need to capture it. This way, I’m prepared and focused. I can concentrate on getting good pictures instead of snapping away at random. Afterward, it’s easy to clean up my photos. The best shots stand out, the story is easy to share, and organizing my photos at the end of the year feels much more manageable. Try making a photo plan for one of your celebrations or holiday events this year. Decide on the key photos you want, capture them, then put your camera down and enjoy the celebration! You’ll have a beautiful story to look back on, and more time to be present in the moment.