So far in the digital asset management process, we have created a folder housing your RAW files, created a catalog in Lr, imported the images into the Lr catalog, assigned keywords and ratings/flags on images before editing the actual image even begins. If you missed the three previous blog posts in this series, you can find them here, here, and here.
Once you have completed editing your photos, you can now export your images. With Lr, you can batch export your images. Select all the images you want to export and from the ‘file’ dropdown menu, choose export. A dialogue box will open giving you many choices on how you want your images and where they will be exported to. It is here where you will choose your folder or create a new one that will house your edited photos. I generally choose to create a folder within the original folder that was created when the RAW files were transferred.
Next, name your images. I generally try to keep the format similar: YYYYMMDD_Project_Name, but remember to add the original file name to this as well that way you have a reference to the original name. I also will add my copyright to this as well. The file name will be lengthy, but all the info you should ever need will be contained in this file name. After choosing the destination and name, you can choose file type, file size, watermark, etc. Now you are ready for your images to be exported.
It is extremely important, as a photographer, to have a very regimented digital asset management workflow. Many hours can be saved from having to search through thousands of images looking for something for a client. One thing that also needs to be mentioned that is just as important is data backup. There should be at least three back up locations for your images. Whatever these turn out to be for you, at least one of the should be kept in a location that is separate just in case there is a theft for fire. These are your assets and properly handling them is integral in your success as a photographer.
If you are looking for one-on-one training in Digital Asset Management, contact us.