Strings

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My Simple File-Based Photography Workflow (Without Lightroom)

First off, I don’t dislike Adobe Lightroom. I can easily see why photographers who shoot weddings and large events rely on it. When you’re dealing with thousands of images at a time, Lightroom’s catalog system makes a lot of sense.

Over the years, though, I’ve developed a workflow that works well for me. It wasn’t designed all at once. Like many systems, it evolved gradually as I figured out what helped me stay organized without getting in the way of the creative process.

Before focusing more seriously on photography, I spent many years working in design and production environments where managing large numbers of digital files was simply part of the job. That experience influenced how I approach photography today. I tend to think about photographs not just as images, but as creative assets that need to remain organized and accessible over the long term.

Instead of using a large catalog system like Lightroom, I rely on a simple file-based workflow using tools built into macOS along with a few applications I already use regularly.

The goal is simple: keep the process clear, flexible, and easy to manage long-term.

Many photographers rely on catalog-based systems where their entire photo archive lives inside a database. My approach is different. I prefer a workflow where my photos exist as normal files and folders that remain accessible regardless of what software I use in the future.

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The Philosophy Behind My Workflow

My goal has always been to keep my photography workflow simple and transparent. I prefer a system where my photos live as normal files in clearly named folders rather than inside a large database catalog.

That way my archive remains easy to understand, easy to move, and independent of any single piece of software.

Over time this approach evolved into a workflow that uses a few simple tools to automate repetitive tasks while keeping the overall structure easy to manage.

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My Workflow at a Glance

Camera / iPhone

↓

Image Capture download

↓

Photo Download folder

↓

Hazel labeling

↓

Review in Adobe Bridge

↓

Edit in Photoshop

↓

Shoot folder created

↓

Year archive

↓

Synology NAS + off-site backup

Step 1 — Downloading Photos

When I return from shooting, I download my images using Image Capture on my Mac.

Image Capture is a utility built into macOS that allows you to download photos directly from cameras, iPhones, and other devices. I use it instead of camera manufacturer software because it’s simple, fast, and downloads the original files without altering them.

In my workflow, Image Capture copies new photos to a staging folder on my external drive called Photo Download.

This folder is where the rest of my workflow begins.

Using Image Capture has a few advantages:

• it downloads the original files at full resolution

• it works with both my camera and my iPhone

• it keeps me independent from camera manufacturer software

Once the images are safely on my hard drive, I can clear them from the camera card or phone.

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Step 2 — Automatic File Labeling with Hazel

I use a small macOS automation tool called Hazel to help manage files in the Photo Download folder.

Hazel watches folders and performs actions when files appear. In my workflow, Hazel monitors the Photo Download folder and automatically applies Finder color labels based on file types.

For example:

• RAW files receive one label

• Photoshop files (PSD) and associated XMP files receive another

One small twist in my workflow is that I use Finder color labels as a visual workflow system. Hazel automatically applies these labels so I can see at a glance which images are new, which ones I’ve worked on, and which ones have generated working files.

When I look at the folder in Finder, I can instantly see:

• new RAW images

• files I have edited

• images that have generated working files

It’s a simple system, but surprisingly helpful.

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Step 3 — Reviewing Images in Adobe Bridge

After downloading the images, I review them using Adobe Bridge.

Bridge works well for my style of photography because it allows me to quickly skim through images without building a catalog database.

Most of the time the strongest images reveal themselves very quickly. When something stands out, I simply open it in Photoshop.

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Step 4 — Editing in Photoshop

When I decide to work on an image, I open the RAW file in Photoshop.

My typical workflow produces three files:

• RAW file

• PSD master file

• JPG export

The PSD file becomes my master working file, preserving layers and adjustments.

The JPG is usually created for sharing online or uploading to sites like Fine Art America.

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Step 5 — Creating a Shoot Folder

Once I finish working with a group of images, I organize them into a folder named with the date and a short description.

Example: 2026-0310-Photos_BoardmanLake

Using a date-first naming system keeps everything automatically sorted in chronological order.

I often use a tool called TextExpander to quickly generate the date portion of the folder name and then add a short description of the shoot.

These folders are then moved into a yearly archive.

Photos/2026/2026-0310-Photos_BoardmanLake

Step 6 — Extracting Finished Images

When an image becomes something I plan to publish or sell, I move the finished files into a separate folder that contains my portfolio-level work.

This makes it easy to locate finished images later without searching through entire shoots.

These folders often contain the files used for things like:

• Fine Art America uploads

• print preparation

• portfolio use

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Step 7 — Archiving and Backup

My working drive is connected to my MacBook Pro, but my long-term archive lives on a Synology NAS.

My photo archive is currently about 3.7 TB, which this workflow handles easily.

The Synology system is also backed up off-site, which provides an extra layer of protection.

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Finding Photos Later

One of the questions people often ask about file-based workflows is: How do you find photos later without a catalog?

For me, the answer is fairly simple.

Because my photos are organized into clearly named shoot folders, I can usually locate images quickly just by navigating the folder structure.

Example:

Photos/2026/2026-0310-Photos_BoardmanLake

The date-first naming system keeps everything in chronological order, and the short description makes it easy to remember what the shoot was about.

When I’m looking for finished work—images I’ve published or plan to sell—I keep those in a separate portfolio folder. That makes them easy to locate without searching through entire shoots.

Between the folder structure, clear naming, and portfolio folders, I rarely have trouble finding what I’m looking for.

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Why I Like This System

This workflow works well for me because it keeps things simple.

The entire archive is built on normal folders and files rather than a database catalog. That means my photos will still be easy to access years from now regardless of what software I use in the future.

It also gives me a clear visual workflow:

• download images

• review them

• edit the ones that matter

• archive the shoot

• extract finished work

Most importantly, the system stays out of the way so I can focus on the part I enjoy most—making photographs.

A Question for Other Photographers

Every photographer eventually develops a workflow that fits their style of shooting.

I’d be curious to hear how others manage their photo archives.

Do you prefer a catalog system like Lightroom, or a file-based workflow like this one?

The apps I mentioned here:

Hazel: https://www.noodlesoft.com

TextExpander: https://textexpander.com

My Photography: https://www.rickstringer.com/photography/

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What a VPN Really Does (and Why You Need One)

A lot of people hear the term “VPN” and think it is something hackers use, or something you only need if you are trying to hide something. That could not be further from the truth.

A VPN is one of the simplest and most important tools for staying safe online.

Here is what it actually does, in plain English.

What is a VPN?

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) creates a secure, encrypted tunnel between your device and the internet.

That tunnel does two important things:

1. It hides your location and IP address.

Websites, advertisers, data brokers, and bad actors cannot easily track where you are connecting from.

2. It protects your internet traffic from being seen.

Your internet provider, public Wi-Fi networks, and anyone trying to snoop on your connection cannot read what you are doing. They only see encrypted data.

That is it. Nothing sneaky. Nothing illegal. Just a safer connection.

Why is a VPN important?

Because without one, almost everything you do online is visible to someone—your ISP, advertisers, shady Wi-Fi hotspots, or anyone who wants to build a profile about you.

Here are some real-world reasons a VPN matters:

• Remote work

Companies use VPNs to protect confidential information when employees work from home.

• Protecting personal information

A VPN helps shield your location, your browsing history, and the apps you use.

• Safety for vulnerable people

Survivors of abuse, LGBTQ individuals in unsupportive environments, activists, and journalists rely on VPNs for basic safety.

• Security on public Wi-Fi

A VPN prevents hotels, airports, cafés, and anyone on the same network from seeing your activity.

• Privacy from data brokers and advertisers

Without a VPN, companies track your movements online and build detailed profiles to sell.

• General peace of mind

Most of us do very normal things online: pay bills, check health portals, communicate with family. None of that should be exposed.

The key point: VPNs are everyday tools

You are not “hiding something” if you use a VPN.

You are protecting something—your privacy, your identity, your safety, your work, and your family.

Millions of people use VPNs every day and never think twice about it.

They are as normal as using a seatbelt or locking your front door.

Why states trying to ban VPNs is a problem

When lawmakers try to ban or restrict VPNs, they are not stopping criminals.

They are stopping teachers, parents, remote workers, students, small businesses, nonprofit employees, and ordinary people from using basic digital safety tools.

Banning a VPN is no different from banning locks because someone might misuse one.

It hurts everyone more than it helps.

Read my full analysis on why state-level VPN bans won’t protect kids and will weaken online privacy for everyone:

The Real Cost of VPN Bans
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The Real Cost of VPN Bans

Over the last few months, a troubling trend has cropped up in state legislatures—including right here in Michigan. Lawmakers are proposing bills that would effectively ban or cripple the use of VPNs, the privacy tools millions of people rely on every day. The stated goal is to “protect children” from harmful content.

That’s a goal every reasonable person supports.

But the methods being proposed show a serious misunderstanding of how the internet works—and they risk doing far more harm than good.

Before we let policymakers break the tools that protect our privacy, security, and even our livelihoods, we need to talk about what’s happening and why it matters.

Poster showing a VPN shield cracked by a gavel labeled “State Bills,” with icons for work, security, and family beneath it and the text “VPN Bans Break More Than They Fix.”

What’s Going On in Wisconsin and Michigan

Wisconsin

Wisconsin’s bill (A.B. 105 / S.B. 130) requires websites offering anything that might be considered sexual content to:

  1. Implement age verification, and
  2. Block access for all VPN users in Wisconsin.

Here’s the problem:

There’s no way for a website to reliably detect “Wisconsin VPN users” versus VPN users from anywhere else. If Wisconsin forces sites to block VPNs, most sites will simply block all VPN traffic nationwide—or stop serving Wisconsin entirely.

VPN users lose.

Remote workers lose.

Journalists, activists, and vulnerable people lose.

All because a legislature doesn’t understand how routing and encryption work.

Michigan

Michigan has been weighing a similar proposal, framed as an adult-content bill—but with language that would make ISPs liable if they “enable circumvention tools” like VPNs.

What do you do if your ISP could be punished because you used a VPN?

Simple: the ISP blocks VPN traffic.

Not just for adult sites—for everything.

Remote work? Tough.

Secure client data? Not possible.

Privacy for everyday citizens? Gone.

The intention may be to keep minors away from explicit content, but the real outcome is a de facto state-level ban on encryption tools that everyday people depend on.

VPNs Aren’t a Loophole—They’re a Lifeline

Lawmakers keep talking about VPNs like they’re some shady way to sneak around the rules.

In reality, VPNs are basic digital hygiene.

  • Businesses use them to secure remote employees
  • Universities use them to protect research and records
  • Medical professionals use them for patient confidentiality
  • Survivors of domestic abuse use them to hide their location
  • LGBTQ+ people in hostile environments rely on them for safety
  • Journalists and whistleblowers use them to stay alive
  • Normal citizens use them to prevent advertisers, stalkers, and data brokers from profiling them

This is not fringe technology.

This is core infrastructure—like seatbelts for your data.

Trying to ban VPNs because some minors might use them to bypass age restrictions is like banning curtains because someone could hide behind them.

You Cannot Secure Children by Making Everyone Less Safe

Here’s the heart of the matter:

Protecting children is important.

Breaking the privacy and security of millions of adults is not the way to do it.

There are ways to help kids stay safe online:

  • Parental controls built into devices
  • Filtered profiles for teens and younger kids
  • Open communication within families
  • Tools created by platforms themselves
  • Optional content restrictions
  • Screen time management
  • Education, not surveillance

But requiring adults to hand over government IDs to random websites—and then banning VPNs so people can’t protect their privacy—doesn’t protect anyone. It simply encourages data breaches, government overreach, and mass surveillance.

No parent I know wants the state to build a database of what their family watches online.

No ordinary adult wants to scan their driver’s license to look at legal content.

No business wants remote employees suddenly unable to log in securely.

We can keep children safe without turning private lives inside out.

The Technical Reality: VPN Bans Won’t Work

The bills assume a site can identify and block VPN users on a state-by-state basis.

It can’t.

VPNs route traffic through encrypted tunnels.

Users from ten different countries may emerge from the same VPN server.

Sites have two practical choices:

  1. Block all VPN users, everywhere.
  2. Shut down access to the state entirely.

That’s why digital-rights groups are warning that these laws could break remote work, break online privacy, and break basic internet functionality.

You don’t secure children by crippling the internet for everyone else.

The Dangerous Precedent

If a state can ban privacy tools to enforce morality laws, what comes next?

  • Banning VPNs to block political speech?
  • Blocking out-of-state news sites?
  • Tracking residents’ browsing habits?
  • Requiring ID for all “harmful” information, however that gets defined next session?

This is exactly the slippery slope countries like China, Russia, and Iran have taken—where blocking VPNs is step one toward broader censorship systems.

That is not the road we want to start down in the United States.

A Better Approach: Privacy and Protection Together

We can absolutely help parents and guardians keep minors away from material they shouldn’t see.

But we can do it without:

  • logging IDs
  • tracking everyone’s activity
  • dismantling remote work
  • exposing people to harassment
  • weakening cybersecurity
  • or restricting access to legal content for adults

Privacy does not have to disappear for protection to exist.

A healthy society needs both.

Where We Go From Here

If you live in Michigan or Wisconsin, this is the moment to reach out to your representatives and say:

“Protect children, absolutely.

But do not dismantle privacy tools.

Do not break the internet to solve a problem we can address in better ways.”

Groups like the EFF and Fight for the Future are already sounding the alarm, but lawmakers need to hear directly from the people who rely on these tools — people like us.

I use a VPN every day to protect my work, my clients, and my privacy. Many of you do too.

Privacy isn’t something only criminals want.

It’s something every adult deserves.

Further Reading & Sources

Official Bill Text

Here are direct links to the proposed state bills discussed in the post.

Wisconsin

These bills contain the requirement for websites to perform age verification and to block access to users connecting through VPNs.

Michigan

Michigan has had multiple proposals connected to age-verification and VPN restrictions.

Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF)

Fight for the Future

  • Campaign Against VPN Restrictions (2025)
    https://www.fightforthefuture.org/
    (Look for their action page “Don’t Ban VPNs” which launched in response to these bills.)

News Coverage

TechRadar

PC Gamer

CyberNews

Yahoo News / Detroit Free Press syndication

Wired Magazine

  • “VPNs, Age Verification, and the Future of Online Privacy”
    https://www.wired.com/
    (Search “VPN age verification”—several Wired pieces explain why VPNs are essential to digital safety.)

Broader Context on Age Verification Laws

Tools for Parents (A Better Approach)

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A Life-Changing Decision in 1984

Before digital tools, before online tutorials, before Photoshop… there was the airbrush. In 1984, mine became more than just an art tool—it became the start of my creative life.

In the early 1980s, I was living in Los Angeles, still searching for the path my career would ultimately take. I did carpentry work, explored acting and set design, and bartended. Then, one day, on a whim, I purchased an airbrush. That decision became a turning point in my life. I spent every spare moment learning how to use it. This was long before the internet, so my “teachers” were the articles and tutorials I found in magazines.

In 1984, I visited Otis College of Art and Design—known then as Otis Art Institute of Parsons School of Design. I met with a counselor to discuss going back to school, and she suggested I start with a couple of classes. I enrolled in an airbrush course and a photorealistic illustration course. I absolutely loved both, as well as the instructors who taught them. Those classes gave me the skills and artistic direction that would shape the rest of my career.

During that time, I created the two illustrations you see here.

The first, Crowned Crane, was my project for the photorealistic illustration class. It’s a mix of airbrush, paint, and colored pencil, based on a photo I took of a crane at the San Diego Zoo.

The second piece was created in the airbrush class. At the time, I thought it would be fun—and a bit ironic—to create a photorealistic illustration of my own airbrush, using the airbrush itself.

Illustration of an airbrush that I did in 1984, while attending Otis Art Institute of Parsons School of Design, Los Angeles.

Looking back, that period in my life feels magical. It set me on a creative path that has lasted decades. I will always be grateful to my instructors, Barry Farr and Judy Unger, for teaching me skills I would carry forward for years to come.

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The Glass Comes Alive in Light

I’m excited to share that I’ve launched a print collection featuring the exquisite glass sculptures of Craig Mitchell Smith—photographed by me for his new book Heart of Glass. With Craig’s permission, these fine art prints are now available to collectors, fans, and anyone who loves the interplay of glass and light.

Fireball by Craig Mitchell Smith

You can view the growing collection here:

https://rickstringercreativeservicesllc.pixieset.com/heartofglassprints

This is just the beginning. I recently returned from Brookgreen Gardens, where I photographed Craig’s newest installation in a breathtaking outdoor setting. These new images will be added to the gallery soon, so stay tuned!

Thank you for supporting Craig’s extraordinary vision—and my journey to capture it through the lens.

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New Chapter: Rick Stringer Photography

I’m excited to announce Rick Stringer Photography, my new DBA under Rick Stringer Creative Services, LLC.

While I’ve spent decades immersed in design and visual storytelling, photography has become my new passion—a creative path that’s taken center stage in recent years. From capturing the changing light across Michigan landscapes to working with artists and nonprofits, I’ve found real joy and purpose behind the lens.

The launch of Rick Stringer Photography gives this work its own identity. You’ll start seeing the new logo and signature mark on future projects and prints:

Thanks for your continued support as this creative journey evolves. I’m looking forward to what’s next—and to sharing more of the world through my lens.

—Rick

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Rising Stars: A Feature in Voyage Michigan Magazine

I’m excited to share that Voyage Michigan Magazine recently interviewed me for their Rising Stars series! This was a great opportunity to reflect on my journey—where I started, where I’ve been, and where I’m headed next.

The Artistic Path: From Airbrushing to Photography

My creative journey has taken many turns over the years. It all began with an impulse purchase of an airbrush while working as a bartender in Los Angeles. That simple decision opened up a world of artistic exploration, leading me to study at the Otis Parsons School of Design and eventually work on a large-scale airbrush mural.

Fast forward through decades of creative evolution—from working in design and illustration to eventually founding Rick Stringer Creative Services, LLC—and I now find myself fully immersed in the world of photography. What started as a side passion has become my primary artistic focus.

Capturing Art Through Photography

One of the most exciting projects I’ve had the privilege of working on is photographing the glass art of Craig Mitchell Smith. Our collaboration has taken me to incredible places, including the stunning outdoor exhibition at The Museum of The Shenandoah Valley. These photos, along with others, will be featured in a book about Craig’s life and work, set to be published later this year.

Beyond that, I’ve been exploring fine art photography, landscapes, and still life, constantly finding new ways to express my artistic vision.

Challenges and Growth

No creative journey is without its challenges. Finding my own artistic voice has been an ongoing process, and transitioning from one medium to another has required adaptability and patience. But through it all, I’ve had incredible support—especially from my wife, Cindee, who continues to be my biggest inspiration and muse.

Read the Full Interview

Voyage Michigan did a wonderful job capturing my story. If you’d like to read the full interview and learn more about my journey, you can check it out here: https://voyagemichigan.com/interview/rising-stars-meet-rick-stringer/

I’d love to hear your thoughts! Feel free to reach out, connect, or share your own creative experiences. And if you’re looking for a photographer to bring your artistic vision to life, let’s talk!

Thank you for being part of my journey.

—Rick

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Canvas Rebel Magazine

I was recently interviewed by CanvasRebel Magazine! This opportunity came my way thanks to my friend Jennifer Harsha Carroll, who kindly recommended me to them. I’m truly honored and humbled to be considered for such a feature.

In the interview, I delve into my creative journey, the projects I’m passionate about, and some insights I’ve gathered along the way. It’s a candid glimpse into my world, and I’d love for you to read it.

Check out the full interview at CanvasRebel and join me in this exciting highlight of my career:

CanvasRebel Interview

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Craig Mitchell Smith Announcement

I’m thrilled to announce some significant news: I am now the official photographer for renowned glass artist, Craig Mitchell Smith. This collaboration presents an immense opportunity for me to venture into new creative avenues.

One of Craig Mitchell Smith’s glass works of art.
One of Craig Mitchell Smith’s glass works of art.

Craig’s talent in glasswork is unparalleled, making him a standout in the world of art.

Our journey began a couple of years ago when friends introduced us to Craig and his husband, Rick. At that time, he had an exhibition at Dow Gardens in Midland, Michigan. With the exhibit scheduled to end the following week, my wife, Cindee and I felt an immediate urge to experience it before it concluded. And it was nothing short of extraordinary—a testament to the beauty of Craig’s craftsmanship.

Earlier this year, we had the privilege of house sitting for Craig and Rick, ensuring their home and garden near the picturesque Lake Michigan, close to Charlevoix, remained in top condition during their travels. Their yard showcased an impressive collection of Craig’s art. On a whim, I decided to photograph these exquisite pieces. Many of you might have glimpsed them on my Facebook page.

Then, this summer, Craig reached out with an intriguing proposition. He has an upcoming show at the Museum of Shenandoah Valley in Winchester, VA. To my astonishment, Craig wanted me to be his official photographer for this exhibition! Despite identifying primarily as an artist and not having a significant reputation in photography, Craig believed that I captured his work’s essence better than any other photographer he’d collaborated with. I was deeply honored by such a profound compliment.

Over recent months, I’ve made several visits to Craig and Rick, documenting Craig’s latest creations. This experience has undoubtedly enhanced my photography skills, and I eagerly anticipate where this journey might lead me next.

Today marked another milestone. I submitted a collection of photographs to the Museum of Shenandoah Valley. The adventure doesn’t stop here; I’ll be traveling to Winchester next year to capture the exhibition’s setup and its final display.

While there’s another exciting project on the horizon, it’s a tad early to spill the beans. Stay tuned for that revelation in a future post!

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Painting Life onto the Brewery’s Wall

Jim Young stood before the vast, blank expanse of the Right Brain Brewery wall, located in the heart of Traverse City, Michigan. With the mural’s design clear in his mind, he realized that this vision would require more than just his hands. That’s when Ashley Sorvisto and I stepped in, eager to tackle the challenge. Russell Springsteen, the owner of Right Brain, had long dreamt of a mural enhancing that wall, and with our combined talents, that dream was on the verge of becoming a reality.

Right Brain Brewery Mural
Right Brain Brewery Mural

Jim’s initial concept aimed to encapsulate the unique spirit of Right Brain. However, faced with city regulations, he showcased his flexibility. Refocusing his design on the fundamental ingredients of beer, Jim’s rendition highlighted water, grain, and hops, aiming to represent these elements in their purest, most captivating form.

Once the design was finalized, Ashley and I joined the project. Our collective goal was to preserve the integrity of Jim’s unique style. Every brushstroke we made was in homage to his original vision, and the synergy of our collaboration radiated from the finished work.

Choosing latex paint, Jim intentionally forwent the ease of spray cans. This decision was a reflection of the artisanal ethos of Right Brain Brewery. As vibrant hues began to materialize on the wall, it didn’t take long for intrigued onlookers to stop and admire, their appreciative glances and words of praise becoming a familiar and heartening refrain.

For Jim, this endeavor marked a departure from his customary solitary undertakings. Teaming up with Ashley and me, however, opened up new vistas of creativity, showcasing the wonders of collaborative artistry.

For Ashley, this project was a rejuvenating experience. Beyond the brilliant colors she contributed, the endeavor reinvigorated her passion for art. She mused about the invaluable discussions we had, be it selecting the ideal colors or fine-tuning the mural’s proportions.

Personally, I had never embarked on such a direct wall painting project before. The experience was enlightening and will forever be etched in my memory.

As the day waned and dusk bathed our mural in a soft, golden light, we paused to admire our collective creation. The Right Brain Brewery wall was no longer just brick and mortar; it was a canvas telling a tale of beer, innovation, and the splendor of teamwork—a narrative we were immensely proud of.

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