Should I outsourcing my photo editing?

As a photographer, your photos are your business. But taking great pictures is only the first step. Once you’ve captured that perfect moment, the work isn’t done until it’s edited and ready to be shared with the world. Post processing your images takes time though…precious time that you could be spending doing other things in your business that will actually increase your revenue. Outsourcing could be the answer.

Let’s chat a bit about whether outsourcing photo editing is right for you.

Why Outsource my photo editing?

Outsourcing photo editing can be an incredibly helpful way to streamline your workflow and free up your valuable time. It can also help bring a level of consistency to your photos that would otherwise take hours of practice and dedication to master. Outsourcing can also increase your confidence and mindset when it comes to your work. When you know another professional has spent time looking at your work and obtaining consistency, you’ll feel more confident handing over the final product to your clients.

How Does Outsourcing my photo editing work?

When it comes to outsourcing photo editing services, there are several options available depending on what type of service you need and how much you're willing to spend. There are “big-box” companies that may charge a lower price but you are not guaranteed to work with the same editor. There is also AI software that claims to be able to “learn” your style but often photographers have found that they still have to go back in and do a lot of tweaking on the back end to get the look they want.

Alternatively, there are freelance editors who will work with you personally to learn your style, give you feedback which might help make your overall process more effective and are focused on getting you strong consistency in your galleries. Their rate is usually higher but the service level is higher as well.

What Should I Look For in an Editor?

In my opinion, one of the best qualities to look for in an editor is whether or not they have been or are currently a photographer. So much of the shooting and the editing go hand in hand and I find that the most successful editors have also been photographers. They know what it’s like when you are at a wedding or at a shoot and all of the stress and complications that can occur!! Good photo editors will also be skilled in any style. A photo editors job is to replicate YOUR style, not apply a style they prefer to your images. Reviews from past clients are also helpful, and of course you want someone who has professional systems in place!

Am I ready to outsource my photo editing?

If you have found yourself dreading the editing that you need to get too or if you are finding that you are spending too much time editing (there are a lot of reasons for that…see this post for more info) you might be ready to outsource. If you have a relatively consistent style of editing that you are using and aren’t going back and forth between styles then outsourcing should be a no brainer for you. Even if your schedule allows time for editing, it really is a part of your workflow that does NOT have to be done by you. A skilled editor should be able to replicate your consistent style, freeing up all that time. If you don’t need to spend that time building your business, spend it with your family/friends!

Photo editing takes time—time that could be spent doing something else more productive or enjoyable —which is why outsourcing is such a great option for busy photographers looking to free up some extra hours in their day! Outsourcing may not be ideal for everyone but if it's something that interests you then there's no better time than now to take advantage of it!

My team has worked with hundreds of photographers and we can’t wait to help you as well. Inquire today if you are interested in taking editing off of your plate! We specialize in working with busy wedding photographers!