I have gotten a lot of questions lately about my workflow. I think this will vary from photographer to photographer but is still fun to know HOW people take and process pictures. I always shoot in manual mode...I like the control this gives me. I always shoot RAW files and auto WB. I try not to use my flash if humanly possible. I will try all sorts of tricks to avoid my flash! The flash flattens an image...takes important detail away from a persons face if pointed directly at them. I will use my flash for fill flash occasionally and IF needed. If you do see me using my flash I am usually boucing the light off of your wall. :)
After my photo shoot I will load all the images on to my computer. I will sort through pictures quickly rating all of my favorites. I do this a couple of times to make sure I don't miss any keepers. Then I begin the editing process.
Each picture will get the following treatment...sharpened, color boost, contrast boost. This initial edit is referred to as a BASIC EDIT. This gives the image a nice pop to it and looks MUCH better than the straight out of the camera (SOOC) image.
Then I move on to the FINE ART EDIT. This is where most of my time is spent. This is what differentiates a professional photographer from any one else that can take your picture...in my opinion. (Not to mention the need of professional equipment and the need of Know How.)I spend time making sure the picture looks as good as it can. I know most photographers charge EXTRA MONEY for fine art edits. At the current time...I do not charge extra for this. I am enjoying the practice and learning more and more things and I like delivering my very best work whether or not you have paid for it specifically. Fine Art Edits include...applying photoshop actions to achieve different coloring affects, removing blemishes, smoothing out the skin, taking off a few pounds, adding a few pounds, head switches, removing distracting things from the image, enhancing facial features, etc.
Below I have a collage with examples of everything I have mentioned. I think it is always fun to see the progression of the editing process. Lots of time and love go in to each of my edits. I love making people feel beautiful and photogenic. These are pictures from a recent senior session. I will post more of this talented young man later this week!
SO for fun...can you tell the difference between the Basic and Fine Art Edit besides the smooth skin and color? Look closely. Please do tell!
4 comments:
Nice! You can tell you put a lot of love into your pictures! That's why you are the best!
Did you "enhance" his arm muscles? In the color fine art edit his arms look meatier.
This was interesting Kim. I'm glad you shared with all of us. I love how you've grown into this art and I have witnessed first-hand all the pains you take to give everyone your best to make them/theirs look their best!
Thank you everyone! YES Emily...I made him look slightly more muscular just for fun. His arms and a little around his shoulders. :)
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