First-order access

There are many online and printed resources for organizing tools for any project and decluttering your home, but I find one concept, used by the host of the “MythBusters” show Adam Savage, very important. It is referred to as first-order access and basically means not storing anything behind anything else. In other words, anything in a workshop, a kitchen, an office, a library or a photo studio should be within direct reach and not hidden or obstructed by other stuff.

I find this principle particularly important during a photo shoot. Often, situations arise that force me to deviate from the original plan for the shoot. Having all my gear neatly organized, so that any lens, flash or cable can be accessed directly, without having to unload other items from the camera bag is very important. It allows me to use unforeseen challenges as opportunities to try new creative techniques, instead of spending valuable time on searching for gear.

I should mention that it is equally (and perhaps more) important not to have too much stuff in the first place, which, of course, is the basic principle of decluttering. Having too many choices of photo gear that can potentially be used to take a given shot robs you creative energy that is best applied to making decisions regarding lighting, composition, posing and other creative elements of the photo. Not specifically related to photography, “It’s All Too Much” by Peter Walsh is a highly-regarded reference on organization.

In general, when problems arise, it is important to come up with a constructive solution on the spot. It may not be the optimal solution, but the immediate timing of offering a solution cultivates the mindset of treating setbacks into learning experiences, instead of reasons for complaining.