#08 Each Project Needs 2 of These 3

Building stoke from every project; and saying no to the ones that you might regret.

Sep 17, 2024

Recently I’ve been back and forth with confirming a new project and I thought now was a great time to share my go-to process for making sure I only work on the most enjoyable assignments. Every project needs to tick at least 2 of my 3 musts.

Central Otago, NZ — The golden highlands.

On Assignment with MSR — MSR Hubba assignment in New Zealand

Often it’s hard enough landing the work, so maximising its worth should be more than just the photos. If you can define what is most important to you beyond the camera, then you will set up a better chance of building stoke from every project; and say no to the ones that you might regret.

Here are the 3 that guide me.

Portfolio – Is it something that will help me in the future gain similar work and build on my business goals?
Money – Sometimes budgets are small but often great people & the dream gig come at a cost. If it’s a low-budget gig, points 1 and 3 have to be solid.
People & Relationships – I always ask myself, what kind of relationships can be built? Is it long-term, is the energy good, do our values align?

You can use these or come up with 3 of your own. Make sure to keep them completely different so they don’t overlap. Give it a try next time you're second-guessing your next project.

Gear: Canon R5 Mark II

The latest edition to my camera arsenal. I’m yet to put it through some heavy work but off the bat, I’ve noticed a clear step up from the original R5. Aside from the features circling the internet, I haven’t heard many speak to the small changes that do make a world of difference from versions 1 and 2. Additional settings that can be programmable to buttons, button layout, Canon 709 profile for video and one that I noticed right out the gate; the EVF. It’s just better. Larger, clearer, brightness management, it just seems more accurate.

I will update with some imagery in the edition of September Stacks.