A Smart Strategy to Ease the Agony of Editing a Photo Portfolio

My Usual System: The Similarity Cull

When faced with the task of editing a portfolio, I typically start by looking for batches of similar images. These are sets of photos that are variations of the same scene or subject. By selecting the strongest image from each batch and pulling out the weaker ones, you can begin to thin out the portfolio without losing diversity. This method helps in making the initial cuts easier and more systematic.

I give a detailed breakdown of my usual editing process for a portfolio here, and my editing process for an online photo story here. 

But here’s where it gets interesting. During the coaching call, a student shared a different approach that blew me away with its simplicity and effectiveness.

The Brilliant Addition Strategy

Instead of focusing on what to remove, this strategy flips the script and focuses on what to add. Here’s how it works:

1. Start with Your Best Five: Begin by identifying the five strongest, most impactful images in your wide edit. These are the ones you know without a doubt need to be in your portfolio.

2. Create a New Folder: Make a new folder and label it something like “Tight Edit” or “Final Portfolio.”

3. Add, Don’t Subtract: Move those top five images into your new folder. Now, go back to your wide edit and look for the next five best images. Add those to your tight edit folder as well.

4. Repeat as Necessary: Continue this process, adding the next best images in small batches (like groups of three or five) until you feel your portfolio is complete.

This method transforms the overwhelming task of eliminating images into the more positive task of selecting and celebrating your best work.

Why This Works

This addition strategy works wonders for a few reasons:

• Positive Mindset: It’s psychologically easier and more enjoyable to add your best images than to decide which ones to remove.
• Clarity: You end up with two clear groups – your tight edit of the strongest images and your wide edit of the ones left behind. This separation makes it easier to see why certain images didn’t make the cut.
• Focused Selection: By focusing on adding the best images, you ensure that your portfolio only includes your top work.

Implementing Both Strategies

You don’t have to choose between these strategies; you can use them together. Start with my similarity cull to quickly thin out a large batch of images, then switch to the addition strategy to fine-tune your final selection.