A picture proof set is a collection of images from a photography session, often presented to a client for review and selection.
Understanding Picture Proofs
In photography, proofs are the initial versions of images captured during a session. As the reference states:
Proofs are images that have either not been edited or have only been slightly retouched. They are used to pick the best poses, expressions, or compositions from a set of images which will then go through the full editing process.
Therefore, a "picture proof set" is simply the entire collection of these proof images delivered together.
The Purpose of a Proof Set
The primary goal of a proof set is to allow the client to participate in the image selection process. Instead of the photographer choosing the final images alone, the client reviews the proofs to identify their favorites based on various factors.
- Selection: Clients choose the specific photos they want the photographer to fully edit.
- Evaluation: It provides an overview of the session's outcome, including different poses, angles, and moments captured.
- Efficiency: It streamlines the workflow by focusing the photographer's editing efforts only on the client's chosen images.
What to Expect in a Proof Set
A proof set typically includes most or all of the usable images taken during the session. These images might show:
- Variations of the same pose or scene.
- Different expressions.
- Slightly different compositions.
- Images straight from the camera or with minimal adjustments (like basic color correction or cropping).
It's important to note that these images are not the final, polished products. They serve as a preview for selection.
Presentation Methods
Proof sets can be delivered in various formats:
| Method | Description | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online Gallery | Password-protected website hosting the images. | Easy sharing, accessible anywhere. | Requires internet, potential download fees. |
| Digital Files | Images delivered via USB drive or download link. | Offline access, easy to store. | Requires a computer/device to view. |
| Physical Prints | Small, often watermarked printed photos. | Tangible, easy to flip through. | Costlier, less convenient for sharing. |
Photographers often add watermarks to proof images to prevent unauthorized use before the final edits and payment are completed.
Conclusion
In essence, a picture proof set is the initial, largely unedited collection of photos from a session, provided to the client specifically for reviewing and selecting the images that will proceed to full editing and final delivery.
