Outdoor Photographer

THE ART OF LUMINOSITY PART 3

In the previous articles in this series, we’ve discussed the ways to recognize great light and the best camera techniques to capture it. Now it’s time for the last step, understanding when and how an image needs to be post-processed.

Over the years, I’ve developed a method for producing images that have the correct contrast ratio for printing or publishing to the web while also incorporating my own style. This mostly subjective part of producing your personal work links with your pre-visualization and camera technique. Think of this method as adding furniture to your home to make it yours.

Post-processing isn’t just a technical function but rather a blend of technical and creative skills required to create the final image. When editing an image, I consider it a performance that combines my pre-visualization, editing skills and passion for my art at that very moment in time. Future edits of the same file might vary, not just because of my improving skills but also due to changes in my focus and emotions.

Each scene is different and affects the way I feel. I consider this, plus the technical aspects of the process when editing, before making any actual edits. I make some edits globally and leave others for a masked region where I can control the color and density to help lead the viewer’s eyes through the scene.

Adobe Lightroom

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from Outdoor Photographer

Outdoor Photographer1 min read
Outdoor Photographer
Dan Havlik Editor In Chief Kristan Ashworth Managing Editor George D. Lepp Field Editor Melissa Groo Amy Gulick Dewitt Jones Ken Kaminesky George D. Lepp William Neill Jason Bradley Josh Miller Glenn Randall William Sawalich Michael Forsberg James Ka
Outdoor Photographer1 min read
Cover Shot
Photographer: Dave Welling Location: Bryce Canyon National Park Equipment: Nikon F5, AF-S NIKKOR 24-70mm F2.8G ED, Lightning Trigger, Gitzo tripod, Fujifilm FUJICHROME Velvia 50 Situation: I chased summer monsoon storms in Utah and Arizona for severa
Outdoor Photographer7 min read
Fresh Eyes
Global tourism is at an all-time high and only becoming more popular each year. It’s nearly impossible to find anywhere on this planet that people haven’t been to before, and some of the most scenic locations are inevitably the most crowded. Even in

Related