Processing time?

[amy.blackburn]

Hey there everyone- got a quick question for ya...

Wondering what your 'standard' time is for processing after a shoot. I have been giving a time of 3-5 days, but am finding that I am really having to bust mine to keep up with my own time frame. So, I obviously need to change it, but I didn't know what is too long, what is to short... Anyhoo! Any help would be great.

Thanks in advance!

[KdLaneJr]

This really depends on how many images you take, similiarity of lighting and the amount of individual attention you believe each require.

What do you consider a 'shoot'?

Ken

[photogenicimages]

For engagements and bridals I say 2 weeks, unless they need it in a rush..... for weddings it's 1 month. I actually edit everything I 'proof' though, and like to give several options as far as tone and color. HTH! :0)

[CobyPhoto]

Normally about 2-2.5 weeks, more on weddings. Think of it like this, even if you only have the one session to proof and can do it in a day, if you get the reputation of having that fast turn around, people will come to expect it. If there comes a time that you can't get it in that short a period, it could make for some pissed customers.

I try to make mine as standard as I can.

CJ

[loana0320]

I take usually about a week... I tell them about a week or two but I like to do it sooner to keep them happy!

[amy.blackburn]

Originally Posted by KdLaneJr

This really depends on how many images you take, similiarity of lighting and the amount of individual attention you believe each require.

What do you consider a 'shoot'?

Ken

I am mainly doing engagements, fams, kids, grads, right now... I like to shoot a ton of different locations, so it is many different types of light, and I like to completely edit them before I let the proof them like Dori does. I'm thinking 2 weeks sounds like a good idea. That is kinda what I was thinking in my head, but wasn't sure if that was too long. 3-5 days is !!

[KdLaneJr]

Two weeks is a good average. If you find yourself up against that timeline, stretch it to 3 weeks and don't look back.

I think Coby brought up a great point, ie., don't get known for a fast turn around and then not be able to deliver.

[NathanJK]

My wife is on The Knot a lot and one of the most consistent complaints that people have about their wedding photographers is how long it takes to get proofs. I say 2 weeks for mine, there is no excuse for me taking longer. It takes me maybe 2-4 hours to get the images ready to print the 4x6 proofs, so not turning it around in less than 2 weeks is just being lazy on my part.

[amy.blackburn]

Awesome. Two weeks it is. I see whatcha mean about a quick turnaround. I don't want to be known as cheap & fast... ha ! Prices are changing soon, and I am working on a ton of new policies, so thanks for the help guys.

[shutterflypro]

When I process images I process to completion about 1500 images 1.5 to 2 hours.

I don't deliver them that quickly though.

[CobyPhoto]

I say 2 weeks for mine, there is no excuse for me taking longer. It takes me maybe 2-4 hours to get the images ready to print the 4x6 proofs, so not turning it around in less than 2 weeks is just being lazy on my part.

There are several reasons for not being too speedy. The ability to do them in 2-4 hours isn't the only concern. Further, it all depends upon how much work you have and do in a week. I sometimes have two weddings a weekend and then I have from 12-20 session in the studio to proof and get ready. 2-2.5 weeks is doing very good.

Further, time is percived as value. If you rush your turn around, it diminishes the value of the service that you offer and people are not as willing to pay what you want for something that only take a "couple of hours." If a client wants "overnight" turnaround (I print in studio so I can do this) I charge the 100% of my regular price for this. Yes, double. I have to stop my regular workflow and do this one clients print(s). It should cost more.

I have never asked, but I feel safe in saying that most of the pros I know run about 2-2.5 weeks in getting proofs back to customers for a regular session and right at 4 weeks on a wedding.

I still take checks at the studio. I will work on proofs and get them ready, but I will NOT print them until the check has cleared. Average time for a check to clear the bank...7 days. I know I am getting paid for my work this way. (Of course, this doesn't apply on weddings.)

[NathanJK]

I wish I got to shoot 12-20 portrait sessions a YEAR let alone a month! If I had your workload I'd definitely say a month for weddings

[amy.blackburn]

Originally Posted by shutterflypro

When I process images I process to completion about 1500 images 1.5 to 2 hours.

ugggghhhh... how??

i hate you.

[CobyPhoto]

Originally Posted by NathanJK

I wish I got to shoot 12-20 portrait sessions a YEAR let alone a month! If I had your workload I'd definitely say a month for weddings

Ummm...that is a weeks work. It isn't all year round, but for the most part (senior season) it can get real busy.

Cj

[NathanJK]

Originally Posted by CobyPhoto

Ummm...that is a weeks work. It isn't all year round, but for the most part (senior season) it can get real busy.

Cj

WOW, next year I'm going to have to do more senior specific marketing! I'm wondering exactly what months would you define as being "senior season"? I don't remember what it was from my days back in high school, I wasn't terribly interested in anything that related in any way shape or form to school...

Sorry for dragging the thread off topic too