Master the 30‑5 Minute Rule for Faster Photo Turnaround
Ever felt the pressure of delivering photos quickly without dropping quality? The 30‑5 minute rule is a simple system that helps you stay fast and sharp. It breaks your session into two parts: 30 minutes of focused shooting and 5 minutes of immediate post‑shoot edit. The goal is to give clients a quick preview while still having time for a polished final set.
What Is the 30‑5 Minute Rule?
The rule starts with a 30‑minute window where you capture the key moments. Think of it as a sprint: you set up, check lighting, and move through the shot list without lingering on each pose. You aim for variety, not perfection, because you’ll polish the best shots later.
When the 30 minutes end, you switch to a 5‑minute edit sprint. Pull the top 3‑5 images, do a basic color correction, crop if needed, and export a low‑resolution preview. This quick batch gives the client an instant taste of the day, builds excitement, and shows you’re on top of things.
How to Apply It in Your Studio
1. Plan Your Shot List. Before the session, write down the must‑have shots. Limit the list to 10‑12 items so you can stay within the 30‑minute window.
2. Set a Timer. Use your phone or a watch to mark the 30‑minute mark. When the timer buzzes, start wrapping up and choose the images you like most.
3. Use Presets. Create a one‑click Lightroom or Capture One preset that handles exposure, contrast, and white balance. Applying it during the 5‑minute edit saves tons of time.
4. Export Small Files. Output a 720p JPEG for the quick preview. It loads fast on phones and lets clients share instantly.
5. Communicate the Process. Let your client know you’ll send a preview within minutes. That expectation helps them stay relaxed, and they’ll appreciate the professionalism.
By repeating this cycle for every shoot—weddings, portraits, product sessions—you build a rhythm that reduces stress. Over time, you’ll notice faster setups, smoother lighting adjustments, and a sharper eye for the shots that matter.
What about larger projects that need more than 30 minutes? Split the job into multiple 30‑minute blocks. Treat each block as its own sprint, then stitch the final edits together after the day is over. The rule still saves you from endless scrolling through thousands of RAW files.
Finally, remember the rule isn’t rigid. If you’re shooting a low‑light ceremony, you might need a few extra minutes for proper exposure. The point is to keep the overall flow tight and avoid getting stuck on perfection during the shoot.
Adopting the 30‑5 minute rule can transform how you work. You’ll deliver previews faster, keep clients happy, and still have time for a thorough final edit. Give it a try on your next session and watch your efficiency climb.