Getting Out of Analysis Paralysis

by Skip Cohen

​I catch up with a lot of photographers every day, both directly and in the various forums, primarily on Facebook. In addition, I recently did a 90-minute presentation at the online Hair of the Dog Summit. Looking at so many of the questions I've seen being asked, so many artists seem to be caught in analysis paralysis.

Too many of you seem caught up in so many different aspects of your business that you've stalled on making decisions. Eventually, you'll miss the opportunities, spending so much time overthinking your goals that the potential for success evaporates. It's like freezer burn on that bag of shrimp I forgot about that was frozen for far too long. Sure, they were still edible, but they're sure weren't as good.

Stop overthinking ideas you know in your heart are right. And don't "should" on yourself if they don't work out as good as you had hoped. When something is underwhelming, step back, take a long look at what you did, and then revise your game plan.

The bottom line? Stop overthinking! I'm not suggesting you attack your business without a plan; just recognize when you no longer need more opinions or time to ponder.

Many years ago, I heard my good buddy Matthew Jordan Smith tell a story about his images when he first started. He'd share his work with everybody to get their opinion until he finally realized he had to listen to his own heart.  He had to decide for himself what made a great photograph. It wasn't only about his technique, but understanding and building a relationship with each client. ​

We're getting down to the wire on implementing creative programs for the holiday season. Don't let time pass you by because of analysis paralysis. You know how to focus your camera - now it's time to focus on your business and your target audience.

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You only regret the things you don't do!
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