What do you play to relax after a long photo editing session?

[samsuk63]

After spending hours adjusting tones and contrast, I often need something to reset my brain. Sometimes I go for simple puzzle games, a quick retro platformer, or even an idle game that doesn’t require much thinking. Other times I just put on some music or take a short walk.

I’m curious, what do you usually play or do to unwind after an intense editing session?

[justadude]

Well, the only LONG editing sessions I have are after large events when I have a few thousand images to edit and turn over in a 2-day window.  After those I tend to turn off my desktop, my iPad, my iPhone, stay away from the TV... and do anything I can outdoors, and stay away from electronics for the next day or two - and only turn my phone back on long enough to see if my client received all of the photos, and if they need anything else - then off it goes.  Yes, it annoys some family and friends, but oh well - lol.  Typically for the next few days it will be hours of bike rides, walking the Lake Michigan beaches (even in the winter), hiking on my favorite trails, things of that nature.  They often involve my wife, or my adult son, or a friend or two.  I'll also often bring a film camera because I know I will get to develop film (which I enjoy), but not have to edit a darn thing (which is my favorite reason to still shoot a lot of film).

However, if it's editing my hobby photography, or new images for my web site, or a couple of images for a client, then I find the editing itself relaxing since it might only be for a hour at most.  I always have music on while editing, which helps.  

[p4pictures]

The way to decompress after a long edit that works for me, is to get outdoors in nature and move my body. Typically this means eight to ten mile walks on quiet trails to enjoy the fresh air and natural environment around me, away from computer screens and most people. 

[TimBird]

Being a landscape photographer, I generally enjoy a glass of nice bourbon while reviewing my captures from the day, and maybe process a photo or two. If that includes music, I prefer instrumental, generally acoustic instrumental. Then I like the sound of my head hitting the pillow!  😉