Mike, you said it in words that only you can. It is so funny the things we all do. I do nearly the exact thing that you do but hadn't placed a title to it and I like yours.
The difference is that I do not carry photos around but I start with many, do a narrowing down to about 10 and then further try to narrow that down 'til I finally feed that itch of creativeness within my very soul.
I then paint, bring it often into my house (studio just outside within a few yards) and set it where I view it often. But this is where I must be very careful. I tend to overwork the oil. I catch myself enjoying what I have thus far but maybe if I just touch this bit up a little, it could be better. Not a correction which would be necessary-only enhancement changes
WRONG---I have to really stop myself. Then release it and let it fly away.
I read somewhere and have been told to turn my work to the wall until I sell it or (in the case of it being a commission), until it is delivered. I must listen better.