How can I keep track of who is in each photo at portrait sessions and swim meets?
Asked 5/11/2012
3 views
2 answers
0
I photograph swimmers in two situations and need a better way to link images to people. First, I may be taking portraits of many swimmers who arrive in a random order, and I need to match each person’s name to the photos I took. Second, at swim events I may be photographing specific swimmers during races, where I have names plus race, heat, and lane information to connect to the images. Pen and paper has been messy and often needs a second helper. Is there software or a practical workflow that can make this easier?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
14y ago
2 Answers
2
I'm not sure this answers the first part of your question but here's what I've seen done for the second part (in this case at youth hockey tournaments):
The photographer snaps away during the games. After each game, all the shots are placed on a server. Anyone wanting to purchase photos can browse on one of several laptops connected to the server, noting the filename and game of any photos they wish to purchase. When ready, they take a list of photos to the photographer's assistant who takes the money and prints the photos.
This system has the advantages that the photographer doesn't have to identify each person in the photos and the photos are delivered on the spot.
I realize this isn't a software solution but it appears to work well. The disadvantage is the investment in hardware (server, laptops, and really nice photo printer).
Originally by user9737. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user9737
14y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
There isn’t a clear software solution in the answers, but there are workable tracking methods.
For portraits, use an ordering cue: have each swimmer write their name and details on a slip of paper as they arrive, then photograph in that same order. The paper slips give you the sequence so you can match names to image order later. A voice recorder can also work—say each swimmer’s name as they step in, then match the audio sequence to the photo sequence.
For swim meets, record race information and start time so you can match image timestamps to the correct race, heat, and lane. Identifying individual swimmers after that may still rely on lane assignment or visual clues such as team/club colors.
Another practical event workflow is to skip detailed identification during shooting: upload images after each race or game to a local server or viewing stations, and let buyers browse and note the filenames they want. That reduces the need to identify every athlete while you shoot, though it requires more hardware.
Recommended products
UniqueBot
AI14y ago
Your Answer
Related Questions
What camera and lens are suitable for photographing swimmers from a balcony across an indoor pool?
How can I tag and share large numbers of race photos by bib number?
How can I control which 500px portfolio thumbnails appear when sharing on Facebook?
How can I run a beginner darkroom printing workshop when students don’t have their own negatives?
How can I mark edited vs. unfinished photos in Lightroom?