6 Things You SHOULD Be Doing When EDITING PHOTOS!

1 - Consider Cropping

Almost every camera being made today has a big enough sensor that allows for cropping without losing too many details. Some even allow for extreme cropping. Cropping your image can transform it completely and create an image that has more meaning especially after eliminating distractions and focusing more on the main subject. Experimenting with crops will also help with framing when your taking photos. Many photographers will say to get the correct crop before you take the photo, but we all know that’s not always possible. You can also get multiple crops from one single image, so it’s a plus in my eyes!

2 - White Balance

You’ll always hear photographers say to get your white balance correct before shooting. While this is true, there are plenty of times where an “Incorrect“ white balance will add an artistic flare. For example, maybe the correct white balance called for a cool tone, but you preferred a much warmer tone because YOU the ARTIST wanted to go for a warm, golden hour look.

3 - Play With Exposure

Like white balance, your aim is to get the correct exposure. Maybe you’re going for a “Dark and Moody” style of edit and in this case a correct exposure would not work as the image may be a bit too bright. You could also play with selective adjustments like “Dodge & Burn” where you can darken or lighten specific areas of the shot in order to achieve your desired look and exposure.

4 - 8 BIT vs 16 BIT

The majority of images are stored in the 8 bit format. For more freedom while editing, you want to be using a 16 bit file which retains a lot more color detail compared to an 8 bit. This eliminates issues such as banding. After editing, you will want to save the image in the 8 bit format.

Edit in 16, save in 8!

5 - Leveling Your Images

It is important to level your images, although there will be times where you want a deliberate angle which is totally fine! For images like landscapes or anything with a horizon, you want to aim to get it as straight as possible. Many editing apps have neat features which allows for easy leveling.

6 - Take A Break!!!

This is crucial. I can not tell you how many times I have stared at one of my images, trying to figure out why I don't like it. Take a minute to step away or even a day or two, and you will be surprised how the issue stands out. It could be anything ranging from too cool, to too warm, or maybe you could have missed a loose strand of hair flying across the face, it happens!