Editing with Thumbnails: A Simple Workflow for Culling Photographs

Keeping a straightforward workflow is essential when editing and culling photographs. One of the most efficient ways I’ve found to review and select images is by viewing them as small thumbnails. This approach streamlines the process and allows me to maintain an objective perspective on what really stands out.

The Power of Thumbnails: Finding the “Keepers”

When it comes to selecting the best images, thumbnails are everything. Viewing photographs as small thumbnails is the ultimate method to decide what truly holds up. If an image has impact at a reduced size, it will likely maintain that power when viewed larger. My process is simple: after importing my images to the iPad photos app, I view them in a 3×3 grid. Tapping each thumbnail individually lets me quickly evaluate which shots have the strength and presence to make the cut.

“Viewing your photographs as small thumbnails is the ultimate way to decide what is a ‘keeper.’”

This method doesn’t just speed up the process; it makes it more efficient, allowing me to assess my images at a glance.

Print Small: Making Selections Tangible

The next step in my workflow is to print small. Instead of creating full-size prints right away, I print eight images on a single 4×6 sheet using the Canon Selphy CP1500 printer. This allows me to physically lay out multiple images on my table, making it easy to shuffle, organize, and compare them.

“Printing small thumbnails lets me shuffle things around much easier than using full-size 4×6 prints.”

This process is invaluable when culling a large archive of work. By printing small, I can move images around, group them, and even tape the best ones into a sketchbook to carry around and review at my leisure.

Take Your Time: Objectivity Through Patience

I’m currently sitting on a massive archive, and I’m making it a point to take my time. Viewing work with an objective perspective requires distance—not just physical but temporal. I’ve learned to detach from the time spent photographing, letting the images “breathe” so I can come back to them with fresh eyes. There’s no need to rush; Instagram can wait. Instead, I prefer culling offline, free from the urge to share too soon.

“There’s no reason to rush to get the work out there. Just delete your Instagram and keep culling offline.”

Create a Dedicated Space for Viewing

One of my favorite techniques is setting up a wall of prints. I place my selections against my squat rack, allowing me to view them as I work out. Hanging from my pull-up bar gives me a unique perspective, letting me take in the photos in a relaxed state. This approach not only combines my workflow with my workout, but it also lets me actively engage with the images in a physical way.

“I set up a wall of prints against my squat rack so I can just hang from my pull-up bar, workout, and actively look at the photographs.”

Key Steps in My Thumbnail Editing Workflow

Import and view in thumbnail form: Use a 3×3 grid on the iPad for efficient selection.
Print small thumbnails: Print eight images per 4×6 sheet to lay out and organize.
Tape into a sketchbook: Carry your selections with you for ongoing reflection.
Set up a viewing wall: Engage with your photos in a dedicated space to gain perspective.
Take your time: There’s no rush—detach from your photoshoot and review with patience.

Thumbnails are a powerful way to simplify the culling process, allowing for quick, efficient, and objective review. By keeping the workflow minimal and tactile, I’m able to stay close to the essence of my work without getting overwhelmed.