Post-Processing Photography Articles

3 Tools You Don’t Use Enough in Photoshop

3 Tools You Dont Use Enough in Photoshop

photo byscyther5 via iStock

Do you think you know Photoshop as well as you should?  

Photo Manipulation’s Abbey Esparza doesn’t think you do, because she recently made a YouTube video outlining some really important Photoshop tools she thinks are underused. 

After watching the video, I tended to agree with her. I’ve been using Photoshop for years, and have grown my own skills alongside its ever-changing platform.

But, I’m also not one to let pride get in the way of knowledge and believe some of the tools in her Photoshop tutorial could be a lot more useful to me if I let them be. 

So, which tools are the underused Photoshop tools that she highlighted? Keep reading to find out. 

Select Subject

select subject

Okay, okay, I know what you’re thinking. The Select Subject tool has been a tool in Photoshop for pretty much as long as Photoshop has been around. And, that’s true, but I tended to ignore it for years and still do.

The reason for this is that the Select Subject tool was really shotty for years. It never correctly highlighted my subject, which left me trying to clean up the border anyways. After years of trying to use this Photoshop tool unsuccessfully, I eventually gave up and just started drawing my subjects myself.

But, Abbey pointed out that this Photoshop tool is really quite impressive now. Photoshop uses an AI to keep improving this tool and while Abbey does admit that it can still mess up every now and again, she argued that it saves her a lot of time. 

Color Lookup Layers

color lookup layers

You can find the Color Lookup Layers Photoshop tool in the adjustment layers panel. It’s one of the most underloved Photoshop tools, I would argue, because of its odd placement. You have to know exactly what you’re looking for. 

You also need to know how to use it. The Color Lookup Layers tool allows you to apply different effects to your entire photo in just the click of a button. For photographers who need to apply the same preset to all of your photos, the Color Lookup Layers tool will quickly become your best friend by allowing you to apply different look up tables to your photos. 

One of the tips that Abbey gives in her Photoshop guide is to remember to adjust the opacity for any of the LUTs you use because they are all quite stylized and will look over-the-top unless you adjust the opacity on them and then layer them. 

Keep in mind that Abbey is a digital surrealist, so she specializes in creating images in Photoshop that don’t represent reality. If you’re hoping to use the Color Lookup Layers tool to create more natural photos, then don’t be afraid to increase the opacity even more. 

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Blend If

blend if

The Blend If tool comes with two different slider bars, one for “this layer” and one for “underlying layers.” It allows you to adjust your light and color on all of your layers at once. Keep in mind that when you use the Blend If tool to adjust “underlying layers” it will adjust all of your underlying layers. 

The Blend If tool is excellent if you want to make your highlights in your photos really stand out, or conversely, it’s really great at making some other elements blend in better to the rest of your image. 

New Window For

new window for

Abbey included a sneaky fourth tool in her Photoshop techniques video… the New Window For tool. This tool creates a new “copy” of the image you’re currently working on, except it isn’t really a copy because it’s a mirror. When you do something to your original image, your mirror copy will also show those changes.

You can use this to zoom in on your image, while simultaneously being able to see the overall effect on the image at large. 

What Do You Think?

underused photoshop tools

 photo by jacoblund via iStock

So, do you agree with Abbey? Do you think that these Photoshop tools are underused? Which tools do you regularly use now and which tools do you think you’ll start to use more frequently after watching this video? 

I personally know I’m going to start using the New Window For tool more often, since I just got a really large new monitor and it’ll be helpful to me to be able to keep track of all of the changes I’m making as I make them.  

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4 Tips for Editing Real Estate Photos

4 Tips for Editing Real Estate Photos

photo byjacoblund via iStock

Editing real estate photos is one of the key elements that will set you and your images apart from the competition.  

There is a lot going on before, during, and after any real estate photoshoot. Some of the decisions you make before and during the photoshoot will have a major impact on your post-processing workflow and how to edit real estate photos. 

Here are some real estate photography tips and real estate photography post-processing tips that help ease your workflow and will also result in better images to deliver to your clients.

Capture RAW Files

editing real estate photos

photo byjacoblund via iStock

To begin our real estate photography editing tips, we have to start with our earlier decisions such as what file type to capture and what method of post-processing we’re going to use. 

Unless you have to hand off your memory card straight out of the camera right to the hands of the person who hired you, RAW is a preferred file format to use for professional photography. JPEGs are readable by almost any device in existence that uses photos, but they are a compressed file format that loses information as it’s written.

RAW camera files require at least some minimum of processing and are often converted to a JPEG for delivery, but you get to choose how much information is used and how it’s used. Plus, you can make large JPEG files from your RAW captures by choosing to minimally compress or smaller files with more compression. 

The color profile or white balance of a RAW file can be assigned after the fact, with a JPEG you will need to decide on a setting (or let the camera choose) that shows the colors of the scene correctly for whatever the lighting conditions are.

Besides all the issues about information compression, RAW files also allow for more leeway in processing for shadow, midrange, and highlights within the image. Plus, if you’re shooting for the bracket and merge HDR technique, the merging part of the operation works better with RAW files.

Bracket and Merge

how to edit real estate photos

photo byAndreyPopov via iStock

Bracket and merge HDR is one of the preferred methods for capturing and editing real estate photos. This technique takes full advantage of the digital format by using several image files blended into one. 

You find the basic exposure for the scene. An average value that captures the midrange values. Then, you make several other exposures at different settings. Have some exposures optimized for capturing shadow detail and some more for the highlights.

In post-processing for editing real estate photos, adjust the settings of the merging or blending program in order to be able to see detail in the deep shadows, the brightest highlights, and everything in between. Usually, 5 exposures bracketed 2 stops apart will work just fine, but some situations may look better with 7 or 9 exposures 1 stop apart.

At first, it may seem as though we’re adding to our workflow by shooting all the extra images and then merging them together in post-processing, but it actually saves time. It saves us time by not requiring us to set up lights and reflectors, spot metering and deciding what detail to let slide, shadow, highlights, or a little of each, and not dodging and burning each image in post.

A lot of the operation of a bracket and merge program can be done in batches, which also eases the workflow. If your computer speed and memory are good enough, you may not see too much time difference in processing the images and batches.

Here is an excellent YouTube video tutorial that helps explain this method of taking and editing real estate photos.

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Calibrate Your Monitor

real estate photography editing tips

photo byNongAsimo via iStock

Using an external monitor (or two) for our editing studio is a nice way to really see what we’re doing with our image file, regardless of what type of photography we’re doing. The larger size makes it easier to see and the sharpness and color fidelity of newer monitors are additional reasons to use external monitors instead of or in addition to our laptop’s screen.

However, if these monitors aren’t properly calibrated for color and for brightness, we could actually lose time and end up with subpar results. Many top-tier monitors have sensitive controls allowing us to fine-tune them for displaying colors properly. 

If we’re using our laptop’s monitor alone, we can also calibrate them to ensure our editing efforts aren’t wasted. There are several moderately priced calibration devices we can use for whatever monitor we may be using.

Save the RAW Files

real estate photography tips

photo byPashaIgnatov via iStock

Save the processed files, too. Backups are good practice in any of our photographic endeavors, but especially so in our paid, time-sensitive projects. 

Making it a habit to save the unedited RAW files may save our butts when the inevitable ‘something wrong’ happens, though hopefully that happens only rarely in our work. There’s few things more time-consuming and reputation harming than calling the realtors and requesting a reshoot due to our error. 

If it’s their error and we have a contract stating terms for them, I’ll schedule reshoots all day long. But it is a big hassle and might cost future business if we lose our image files somehow. More than once, I’ve been grateful I picked up the backup habit early on in my professional career. 

These 4 tips for editing real estate photos in your own business should help you out with regard to workflow, delivering superior results, and developing or maintaining an excellent reputation. Tell us your favorite tips in our forum discussions, we’d love to hear them!

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5 Features We Love in Skylum's Luminar Neo Photo Editor

luminar neo photo editor

Today, whether you like it or not, editing is a key part of the photography process. So, if you want to make the most of your photos and improve as a photographer, it’s time to start taking it seriously. With that in mind, one tool that can help you immensely along your photography journey is Luminar Neo!

Luminar Neo is an innovative photo editor designed for both beginner and experienced photographers. It’s super easy to use and can help you achieve professional results in the blink of an eye. Moreover, its powerful lineup of AI tools increases workflow speed, and its customizable interface lets you create a flexible workspace that boosts productivity.

While we could go on and on about why we love Luminar Neo, we narrowed it down to our five favorite features for this article. They include the program's core editing tools, new AI tools that make images brighter and erase distractions, plugins that allow you to merge Luminar Neo with other editing programs, and extensions that expand its power even further.

Now, join us as we explore some of the benefits of using Skylum’s Luminar Neo Photo Editor and how it will help you take your editing skills to the next level!

Table of Contents

Skylum’s Luminar Neo Photo Editor Allows You to Relight Dark Images

luminar neo relight

When your images come out darker than you originally planned, it’s time to turn to the Relight AI tool of the Luminar Neo photo editor. This incredible tool lets you lighten up any photo instantly by clicking a button. Then, make micro-adjustments to perfect your images using the built-in sliders.

Relight AI lets you place virtual light sources anywhere in your scene to highlight a specific subject or part of a photo. This is particularly useful in portrait photography, where you can backlight a photo to make it clearer and brighter. You can also use Relight AI to create a virtual flash effect to brighten faces or underexposed landscapes. 

You Can Also Easily Erase Distractions in Luminar Neo

luminar neo generase wildlife

Did a bird fly into your frame just as you took a photo? Was it impossible to capture the beauty of the pyramids without someone walking in front of them? Well, we’ve got good news for you. With the GenErase tool from the Luminar Neo photo editor, you can quickly and easily remove anything you want from your photos!

Better yet, not only does the GenErase tool remove unwanted distractions, but it also uses content-aware AI technology to replace them with content that perfectly matches its surroundings—leaving your photos looking cleaner, totally natural, and just like you envisioned them in your mind.

Check out the video above on the Luminar Neo YouTube Channel to learn more about eliminating unwanted objects from your photos using their GenErase tool.

Luminar Neo's Core Tools Set You Up for Success

luminar neo core tools

Along with all the flashy new AI tools, the Luminar Neo photo editor also boasts an excellent set of core tools for editing. In total, there are more than twenty core tools that you can use to fine-tune your images. The four most common things photographers must fix in their images are detail, noise, tone, and color.

Luminar Neo has sliders for all of them. With the detail sliders, you can transform blurry content into crystal-clear images. The denoise sliders make photos sharper by reducing grain created by shooting with high ISO levels. Using toning sliders, you can control the warmth and contrast of images. You adjust color settings with the saturation, vibrance, luminance, and hue sliders.

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Skylum’s Luminar Neo Photo Editor Adapts to Your Workflow

luminar neo plugins

If you don’t already have a photo editor or want to change because you don’t like your current one, you can use Skylum’s Luminar Neo photo editor as a standalone program. When you use Luminar Neo on its own, everything is done inside the program itself, including importing and exporting photos.

Alternatively, if you are happy with your current editor but want access to Luminar Neo’s tools, you can combine multiple editors using a plugin. Other benefits of plugins are you can maintain your current workflow and don’t have to spend time learning a new system. Luminar Neo plugins exist for Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Lightroom, and Photos for macOS. 

Get Even More Editing Power Out of Available Extensions

luminar neo extensions

Depending on the type of photography you like to shoot, you may want more tools not included in the standard Luminar Neo photo editor package. That’s where Luminar Neo extensions come in! They allow you to customize your photo editor in a way ideal for you and your photography needs without taking up unnecessary space on your hard drive.  

For example, Panorama Stitching, Structure AI, Accent AI, and Supercontrast extensions are ideal for landscape and nature photography. On the other hand, Relight AI, Noiseless AI, and Supersharp AI add tons of value to portrait and wildlife photographers. 

Final Thoughts on the Luminar Neo Photo Editor

luminar neo genswap 1

Luminar Neo is an amazing photo editor every photographer should have in their tool kit. Not only will it improve the quality of your work, but it will also save you lots of time. Therefore, you get the best of both worlds—better photos and more free time to spend with your family and to do the things you love! 

Finally, check out the links below to discover how Skylum’s Luminar Neo photo editor can help enhance different types of photography: 

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Heads up: Clicking on our affiliate links and exploring our sponsored content helps us at no extra cost to you, and we only recommend gear we're absolutely crazy about!

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An Easy Way to Correct Lens Distortion and Vignetting

An Easy Way to Correct Lens Distortion and Vignetting

photo by AndreyPopov via iStock

Lens Distortion and Vignetting

All lenses - even professional ones that cost thousands of dollars - can create defects in photos that diminish their overall quality and visual appeal. 

This includes distortion, in which lines that are straight appear to have a curve to them, and vignetting, in which the corners of the image appear to be darkened.

In this quick tutorial, you’ll learn how to correct lens distortion and vignetting quick and easily.

For demonstration purposes, Exposure X5 is used to show how to make these corrections in post-processing.

If you don’t already have Exposure, you can download a free 30-day trial.

Let’s get started! 

How to Correct Lens Distortion

how to correct lens distortion

YouTube Screenshot/Exposure Software

What makes the process of correcting lens distortion so easy with Exposure is that it has a vast library of lens profiles specifically designed to remove any distortion in the image.

Using the Amount slider, you can adjust how much or how little the profile for your image influences how the image looks.

how to correct lens distortion 2

YouTube Screenshot/Exposure Software

To get the most control, adjust the Amount manually, that way you can keep an eye on lines in the image (like those highlighted in red above) and make the fine adjustments to make them appear exactly straight.

However, in most situations, the Barrel Slider is the only tool you need to use.

how to correct lens distortion 3

YouTube Screenshot/Exposure Software

The Barrel Slider (highlighted in red above) adjusts for pincushion distortion, which results in straight lines bending inward, or barrel distortion, in which lines bend outward.

This single slider can correct either of these issues in a matter of seconds.

You can also use the Midpoint Slider to change the shape of the correction. That is, it controls how much of the effect is added to the middle of the shot versus the corners of the shot.

how to correct lens distortion 4

YouTube Screenshot/Exposure Software

Just be aware that using this slider at extreme levels can cause wrapping effects to occur, so using it judiciously is recommended.

Lastly, you can make adjustments to the Asymmetry slider to gain finer control over distortion in the corners of the photo.

Note in the screenshot above how the Barrel, Midpoint, and Asymmetry sliders have been adjusted very little, yet the difference in this shot and the first one in this section is quite extreme. A little goes a long way!

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How to Correct Vignetting 

how to correct vignetting

YouTube Screenshot/Exposure Software 

Though vignetting can sometimes be used to add artistic flair to a photograph, vignetting is typically an unwanted consequence of the lens used to take the photo. 

Using Exposure, you can quickly remove vignetting for a cleaner shot.

The Vignette Correction balances out the darkening in the corners by using the Lens Profile of the lens that was used.

Then, simply adjust the Strength Slider as needed for each image in which vignetting appears.

how to correct vignetting 2

YouTube Screenshot/Exposure Software

Again, using Manual controls gives you an added layer of precision when removing vignetting. As you can see above, manipulating the manual controls has significantly brightened the edges of this shot.

Once you’ve made the needed corrections, you might need to adjust the image exposure to ensure the photo is well-exposed.

how to correct vignetting 3

YouTube Screenshot/Exposure Software

A handy feature of Exposure is that you can turn a vignette correction for a specific lens into a custom preset. 

This enables you to apply the same corrections to any images taken with that lens, thereby speeding up the process of removing vignetting even further.

Just click the gear icon at the top of the editing panel (shown above) to create a custom preset. You can also create a custom preset for distortion adjustments and for chromatic aberration adjustments too.

With that, you have a quick and easy way of removing lens distortion and vignetting. 

Check out the video above by Exposure to review the process, and be sure to get your 30-day free trial if you don’t already have Exposure!

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Enhance Your Images With These Basic Photo Editing Tips

Enhance Your Images With These Basic Photo Editing Tips

Photo by Rawpixel via iStock

Once you get serious about photography, whether as a professional, semi-pro, or serious amateur, basic photo editing is a part of your overall photography workflow.

The way I see it, it’s similar to when film-based photography was the norm. You just didn’t feel like you were in control of or could completely understand the entire photography process without getting your feet wet with the basics of film processing and printing in a darkroom.

Knowing how to edit photos digitally and what all the different post-processing program controls mean is just as helpful for digital photography. Using Photoshop tips, YouTube videos, website tutorials, and advanced options from online printing companies will help us learn basic photo editing tasks.

Table of Contents:

Why Learn Basic Photo Editing?

Why Learn Basic Photo Editing

Photo by Visual Intermezzo via iStock 

A question may arise: Why learn basic photo editing since digital photography provides so many good ways to do things for us with little or no input? 

In a word, the answer is control. By knowing basic photo editing, we can better control our technical and artistic tools for creating better images. 

I like to point to the example of Ansel Adams making beautiful B&W images of nature. He knew the steps needed for each aspect of what could be changed and adjusted concerning the camera, the exposure, film, chemicals, paper, and the enlarger.

Here is a nice YouTube video from The Art of Photography that introduces the Zone System for B&W film photography:

Many articles on Photography Talk explain why using the Zone System is a good idea for digital photography in both B&W and color. There’s some excellent detail in our Master Courses, too. You can get as deep as you want to; I know you will enjoy it!

For now, let’s get back to some basic photo editing tips that can be used by anyone from beginner to intermediate or advanced-level photographers.

Non-Destructive Basic Photo Editing

Non Destructive Basic Photo Editing

Photo by thomas-bethge via iStock 

When I found out about non-destructive editing post-processing programs, it quite literally changed my life, photographically speaking.

When digital photography and computer-based digital image post-processing became more and more commonplace, the programs used had a relatively high learning curve. In other words, they were hard.  

Part of the difficulty was in how they worked. They were closer to vector graphics than to photography in how they operated and what the controls were. Things got better as more and more programs changed their controls and inputs to be closer to how a photographer does things.

But they were still rather top-heavy. Part of the problem was that any change you made in the program altered the image file. If you wanted to go back to any previous process, you had to have saved the original untouched file, and any changes you may need to readjust would require another image file. 

That took up a lot of memory space. And that could also slow down your computer and add extra steps to your post-processing workflow. These issues are why some photographers still see post-processing as being complicated. I understand.

Non-destructive editing is so much better for basic photo editing. In non-destructive editing, the original file is left as-is, and all edits are kept as computer instructions and applied as the file is exported. It’s even saved that way, so computer memory is not sucked up so quickly.

Watch this YouTube video from Utah Desert Remote Observatories for an overview of non-destructive editing, plus some helpful Photoshop tips:

To use regular Photoshop for non-destructive editing, you use a workaround such as layers. Adobe Photoshop Lightroom was designed from the ground up as a non-destructive editing post-processing program.

Some other examples of programs with this feature are ACDSee, Capture One, Luminar, and DxO Photo Lab.

Batch Editing Eases Workflow

Batch Editing Eases Workflow

Photo by RossHelen via iStock

Have you ever sat at your computer doing something to an image file and thought about how many of your files from this shoot need the same exact little bit of processing? And how nice it would be to do that one edit to all 200 pics in the folder with one control!

That’s batch editing. For many photographers, this tool saves hours of basic photo editing. It is the ultimate workflow simplifier for certain types of photography, such as real estate, portrait, or wedding photography.

Watch this YouTube video from Ants Drone explaining some ideas on batch editing with Adobe Photoshop Lightroom:

I look at it like developing a roll of film, or as I sometimes did, several rolls all at once. I could load up my Tri-X or Ektachrome in a developing tube that held five rolls. Batch editing is like that, but even better since I can edit different processes depending on the program used.

Using Presets for Basic Photo Editing

Using Presets for Basic Photo Editing

Photo by PeopleImages via iStock

Sometimes, I wish I could copy what someone else has done with advanced or basic photo editing and plug it into my own program. That would save so much time for rudimentary edits.

I just described presets and plugins. Using a preset can be the entire basic photo editing job or a jumping-off point for deeper edits and more complicated enhancements. 

As seen in this YouTube video from Todd Dominey, presets can be used as an effective shortcut for basic photo editing:

When making clothing, patterns are used, we use formats in crafting letters and resumes, and a one-man band might have a sequencer laying out a beat track during their live performance at Central Park. That’s how I see plugins and presets for basic photo editing. Super helpful when needed.

Using Printing Company Enhancements

Using Printing Company Enhancements

Photo by leonid_tit via iStock

As a final tip for how to edit photos, sometimes I like to take advantage of the imaging enhancements available from high-end printing companies for my physical photography products.

Here is an example from Pure Art Printer, a printing company I use for professional-grade prints:

pure art printer enhancement

Pro File Enhancements from Pure Art Printer is a service that eases a workflow and helps create final images by enhancing aspects of your image to your specifications. They examine and work on Color Tuning, Dust and Dirt Removal, Professional Enlargement for MAX Printable File Size, Sharpening, and other things you ask them about.

In the order form is a space with room for all sorts of instructions and ideas you can tell them. They also correspond back with you to get it all done right, just if you want it. It's a great service for pros and beginners alike.

Where To Go Next

Where To Go Next

Photo by gorodenkoff via iStock

Where do you go after you’ve learned and gotten comfortable with basic photo editing? The sky's the limit, really. We have excellent articles and courses here at PhotographyTalk that go into detail about lots of stuff beyond basic photo editing.

Among the tools I used for initial and deeper learning were the excellent online tutorials offered for free by post-processing software companies such as Adobe and ACDSee.

Enhancing images with basic post-processing is easier than you may have thought at first. Learning and putting to use new skills and techniques will let you continue to advance and make excellent photos.

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Exposure X5 is Here; New Tools Make Photo Editing Easier Than Ever

exposure x5 is here

If you’ve been following our articles the last few months, you know that we’ve been testing Exposure to see how it stacks up against the likes of Lightroom and Photoshop.

Exposure X4 was certainly up to the task, and now that Exposure X5 is here, we’re excited to see just how good it is.

Spoiler alert - it’s really good! 

Exposure X5 Features

Exposure X5 was released last week, and in that time span, we’ve had time to explore its new features.

One of the most exciting new features in Exposure X5 is 3D color masking (there’s a tutorial on how to use this tool later in this article).

Essentially, 3D color masking gives you ultra-precise control over where an adjustment is applied to an image. That fine level of control is thanks to definitions that allow the adjustment areas to be defined by specific color characteristics, like luminance, saturation, and hue.

This allows you to target things like skin tones, the sky, and other specific color ranges with just a few clicks.

Exposure X5 also has advanced chromatic aberration correction, which allows you to remove those unwanted artifacts lens profiles or by manual adjustments, if so desired. Paired with a new fringe removal tool, chromatic aberration is easier than ever to remove.

There’s also a new vignette correction tool that combats darkened areas around the edges of your photos. It can be applied via a lens profile or through manual controls, just like the chromatic aberration correction.

Furthermore, Exposure X5 has custom camera profiles that enable you to control how color is interpreted from RAW files. These camera profiles (created by X-Rite or other software) can be applied automatically by matching a camera model or serial number, and it can also be used to match to a specific lens or ISO range.

exposure x5 announcement

On top of all that, the folks at Exposure have included the following in Exposure X5:

  • New complementary color presets
  • New light and airy presets
  • New season-inspired looks
  • More black & white film options
  • Support for grayscale TIFF and JPEG images
  • New image flip options
  • Multiple user interface language options, including English, French, and German 

If you’ve never tried Exposure, now’s the time. You can download a free trial version to test out for 30 days to see if it’s the right editing program for you.

Learn More:

How to Fix Color Casts 

3d color masking 1

YouTube Screenshot/Exposure Software

As I mentioned above, 3D color masking is a new and exciting feature in Exposure X5. This quick tutorial will show you how this tool works.

The control you get for applying effects to images with the 3D color masking feature is simply outstanding. We’re talking absolute pin-point application of the desired effect based on color properties like hue, saturation, and luminance. 

You can apply masks in a variety of ways. 

As shown above, you can use the brush tool to apply the mask to larger areas. While this works fine in many situations, it isn’t all that precise. If you look closely, the masked area extends into the clouds above the waterfall. It also misses some of the cliff face on to the left and right of the waterfall.

3D color masking 2

YouTube Screenshot/Exposure Software

A much more precise way of applying masks is with Exposure X5’s 3D color masking tool.

Setting the color mask is a straightforward process.

For example, you can use the hue range presets to select a specific range of colors in the image to which the mask will apply. As shown above, the 3D color mask has been applied to dark green hues.

To change the hue range of the mask, you simply rotate the color wheel.

3d color masking 3

YouTube Screenshot/Exposure Software

You can refine the control over the range of hues easily as well.

Just grab the arrows on either side of the hue range and extend it to include more tones in the mask or to feather the mask across a broader range of hues.

As you can see above, the mask now covers a much broader range of green hues than in the previous screenshot.

In either case, this method of defining the area to which an effect is applied is far more precise and will get you much better final results.

3D Color Masks are Reusable 

reusable color masks 1

YouTube Screenshot/Exposure Software

Another excellent feature of 3D color masks is that you can save them and reuse them on other images.

After the mask is defined, ensure the “show mask” option is turned on (indicated by the red arrow above). This will display the areas in the shot that are selected.

In this case, the mask can be copied from this portrait to another portrait, and Exposure X5 will automatically recalculate the boundaries of the mask to adhere to the content in the new image.

reusable color masks 2

YouTube Screenshot/Exposure Software

So, if you’re shooting a series of portraits and the subject moves to a new position, the same mask can be applied to each image, even though you only tuned the mask to the first image in the sequence.

This works even if the images weren’t taken in sequence or even in the same environment!

 The results you get are quite good, and in many cases fine-tuning is not needed. However, if you do need to refine the mask after you’ve pasted it into a new image, you can easily do so with the brush tool.

One of our most time-consuming tasks as photographers is editing our images, so any tools that come along to make that process smoother and more efficient are welcomed with open arms.

3D color masks are one such tool. You can streamline your workflow without losing any control over how your images look. Not only that, it’s an incredibly easy tool to use! 

Get Exposure X5 and test out the 3D color mask on your own images. If you’re like me, you’ll be beyond impressed!

See the full 3D color mask tutorial in the video above.

Learn More:

 



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Five Post-Processing Tips

Five Photography Post Processing Tips

photo byRawpixel via iStock

More than ever before, photographers today have all kinds of tools at their disposal for getting the most out of their images.

Indeed, post-processing is a crucial component of photography, but with so many different programs with so many different tools available, it’s easy to understand why so many photographers find post-processing a little overwhelming and confusing.

This post seeks to help clarify a few things.

Using Exposure X4 by Alien Skin as an example, we’ll explore five post-processing tips that will improve your workflow, help you save time, and facilitate the creation of more impactful photos.

Let’s get to it!

Post-Processing Tip #1: Make It Easy to Find Photos Later 

One of the biggest difficulties of post-processing is simply making sense of all the photos you’ve taken.

If you’re like me, keywording your photos after the fact is not a strong suit, so why not keyword them while adding photos to your image library? Doing so kills two birds with one stone, that way you don’t have to worry about keywording later. 

For landscapes, you can use the location of the shot as the keyword. For portraits or wedding photos, use the name of your client. You can alternatively use the subject matter or the date, heck, even colors can be used as keywords. Whatever works best for your particular workflow!

 Adding keywords is easily accomplished using Exposure’s “Copy From Card” dialog.

In fact, Exposure’s Copy From Card dialog allows you to do much more than apply keywords. As the video above explains, you can also preview images, make image selections, edit metadata, apply creative presets, and more. 

Quick Tip: Keywording isn’t the only tool at your disposal for organizing your images in Exposure. You can create smart collections of images, apply ratings, and add tags to photos to drill down and organize your photos in a highly customized manner.

Post-Processing Tip #2: Pick the Photos You Want to Edit (and Hide the Ones You Don’t)

5 post processing tips 1

Personally, I prefer to flag the photos I want to edit from the outset, that way I know exactly what photos need attention later on.

In Exposure, you can do this by adding “pick flags” to the photos you wish to work on and “reject flags” to those you want to skip. To set a pick flag, simply press the + key to mark an image as picked and the - to set the image as rejected.

Then, all you have to do is set a filter which hides the images flagged as rejects, that way you don’t have to look at them as you edit. It’s a quick, simple, and easy way to improve your post-processing workflow.

Post-Processing Tip #3: Batch Edit Photos Taken in the Same Conditions

5 post processing tips 2

One of the biggest consumers of time when you’re post-processing is meticulously editing individual images. You can speed up that process, though, by using the batch edit function.

If you have a set of photos that were taken under the same conditions - say, the say lighting - a variety of edits can be done to the entire set of photos simultaneously.

Quick Tip: In Exposure, just select the photos you wish to batch edit, and you can apply basic edits, apply presets, adjust the white balance, and even recompose the images using the crop tool all in one fell swoop. When it comes to digital photo processing, this is one of the biggest time-savers you can implement.

Get a free trial of Exposure and start improving your post-processing skills today.

Post-Processing Tip #4: Ramp Up Your Sharpening Efforts

5 post processing tips 3

The RAW processing engine of Exposure offers you a wide range of tools that help you make exceptional photos. In addition to highlight and shadow recovery, noise reduction, color toning, and other crucial tools, Exposure also has highly effective sharpening tools.

The best way to make use of Exposure’s sharpening features is to zoom in to 1:1 and temporarily adjust the sharpening amount to the maximum.

Then, adjust other sharpening aspects like radius, detail, and masking while holding down the option key. Doing so gives you a visualization of the areas that will be sharpened.

As a final step, reduce the sharpening amount to an appropriate level. The end result will be a tack-sharp photo that gives viewers a clean, crisp view of the subject.

Post-Processing Tip #5: Consider Presets

post processing tip use presets

Photo © Andrea Livieri. This screenshot shows the new LUT support in Exposure X4.5. Two striking new looks are shown in the Browse LUTs dialog, each dramatically transforming the original image. LUTs can be imported into Exposure for an endless variety of new styles.

I don’t know about you, but the most difficult part of post-processing for me is simply figuring out which preset looks the best. I can spend 10, 15, and even 20 minutes or more poring over presets trying to find the right one. 

In Exposure, this process is made easier because you can view different options on the screen at once. This makes selecting which preset works the best a much, much easier process. 

I just pick my top several presets (out of the several hundred available), use Exposure’s comparison view to see them on-screen at the same time, and go from there. It truly makes a tedious process a breeze!

Quick Tip: You can make your own presets, apply them in a single click, and use Exposure’s layering and advanced brush tools to blend them together for a completely custom look.

Bonus Post-Processing Tip: Export Accurately

How you export your images depends on their end-use. 

For example, if you’re exporting an image to post on Instagram, its size, compression, file type, bit depth, and more will be different for a photo of a client that you’re sending to print. 

Fortunately, Exposure has a way to streamline this process as well, thanks to its Quick Export functionality.

Quick Export enables you to easily set up customizable file handling recipes to simplify and speed up the production of images. So, no matter the situation or the end-use of the photo, Exposure can help you export it in a manner that works best. 

Easy, right?! With these tips and the intuitive tools and ease of use of Exposure, you’ll be able to make quick work of post-processing without sacrificing image quality. What’s not to like about that?

Get a free trial of Exposure and start improving your post-processing skills today.

 



We Recommend


How to Add Life to a Flat Photo

How to Add Life to a Flat Photo

Photo by Josefa nDiaz on Unsplash

If you shoot in RAW (which you should), you know that the image files are quite flat, with little in the way of color and contrast.

This means that before you publish, print, or share images, you need to do some work to add life to the shot.

The question is, how do you add punch to a flat photo?

In this tutorial, you’ll learn simple tricks for how to edit a flat photo using Exposure.

What is a Flat Photo?

what is a flat photo

YouTube Screenshot Exposure Software 

To begin, let’s answer the question, “What is a flat photo?”

Essentially, a flat photo is one with very little in the way of contrast. This is advantageous because flat photos retain the details in both the shadows and the highlights.

The flatness of the image can be easily corrected in post-processing, as we will soon see. So, there’s a double benefit - there’s more details in the shadows and highlights and it’s easy to add visual punch to a shot. It’s the best of both worlds!

How to Edit a Flat Photo: Work on Contrast

how to edit a flat photo contrast 1

YouTube Screenshot Exposure Software

The first step needed to add life to a flat photo is to increase the contrast in the shot.

Contrast is the overall difference between light and dark tones in a photograph. As noted above, flat images have reduced contrast, so using a program like Exposure to boost contrast will immediately give the photo greater visual appeal.

With greater contrast comes greater dynamic range. The greater the dynamic range, the wider the histogram for the shot will be (conversely, a flat image’s histogram has a peak in the middle with very little values on either end).

how to edit a flat photo contrast 2

YouTube Screenshot Exposure Software

When adjusting the contrast of an image, you want to do it in a way that makes the dynamic range extend the width of the histogram, as shown above. Doing so ensures you have deep shadows, bright highlights, and plenty of pixels in between.

The primary question you should ask yourself when working on the contrast is how much to add.

On the one hand, if you don’t add enough contrast, the photograph will still appear flat. On the other hand, if you add too much contrast, the details in the shadows and highlights could be lost.

As a result, it’s necessary to experiment with the level of contrast and fine-tune it such that you get the visual punch you’re after without going overboard.

Learn More:

How to Edit a Flat Photo: Give Clarity a Boost 

how to edit a flat photo clarity 1

YouTube Screenshot Exposure Software

In programs like Exposure, you’ll find a Clarity adjustment tool that is also beneficial for giving your photos added visual appeal.

Specifically, the clarity slider makes adjustments to the edge contrast of midtones in the image.

In addition to this, clarity gives photos a sharper appearance and also enhances textures and other small details. In particular, clarity is an excellent tool for giving more life to a black and white photo.

how to edit a flat photo clarity 2

YouTube Screenshot Exposure Software

More generally, clarity is a great option if the photo is of a landscape, cityscape, or animal. This is because clarity brings out the textures of landscapes, enhances the linear lines of buildings, and emphasizes wrinkles and other skin textures.

Again, working with something like the clarity tool requires some experimentation to determine the level at which you get the best results. Too much clarity results in an overprocessed look that is not pleasing at all (as shown above) while not enough clarity can leave an image looking too smooth and soft.

How to Edit a Flat Photo: Use Vibrance, Not Saturation 

how to edit a flat photo vibrance 1

YouTube Screenshot Exposure Software

A third option to add punch to a flat photo is to manipulate the vibrance of the photo.

Vibrance is like saturation, in that it makes colors appear richer. However, vibrance, only works on pixels that have a lower saturation. The result of this is the ability to deepen the colors of the shot without making colors that are already saturated look overprocessed and fake.

This is a particularly good tool to use when working on a portrait - vibrance protects skin tones, so you can improve color saturation in other areas of the shot without making people’s skin look unnatural.

how to edit a flat photo vibrance 2

YouTube Screenshot Exposure Software 

Just be aware that pushing vibrance too far can result in colors that look unrealistic, blotchy, and lose detail, thus appearing as a solid color block. 

While having a flat image isn’t usually desirable, neither is having an image that looks overprocessed! As with all things in photography, practice makes perfect, so experimenting with these three tools will help you step up your post-processing game and create engaging, beautiful photos with tons of life.

In the video above by Exposure Software, you can see each of these steps to add life to a flat photo in action.

Remember, the tutorial explains these steps using Exposure, but these instructions can be used to work on images in other programs as well. 

If you don’t have Exposure, you can download a full trial version to test out.

 



We Recommend


How to Convert an Image to Black and White

How to Convert an Image to Black and White

photo byIanChrisGraham via iStock

Sometimes the photos you take simply have more impact as a black and white photo.

Perhaps the photograph is rich with contrast. Maybe there’s lots of textures or patterns. Or there might be interesting lines or shapes in the shot that could be accentuated in a black and white photo.

There are many different ways in which you can convert a color image to a black and white one. But in this tutorial, we’ll explore how to convert an image to black and white using Exposure by Alien Skin Software.

The video above provides a quick step-by-step process for creating black and white images.

Below I’ve outlined each step for easy reference.

Let’s get started!

Convert an Image to Black and White Step 1: Prepare the Color Image

convert an image to black and white step 1

YouTube Screenshot/Alien Skin Software

The first step in learning how to make a black and white photo is to prepare the original color photo for conversion. 

This preparation process should involve basic edits like correcting color casts, getting the exposure just right, and boosting contrast, as that will enhance the appeal of the black and white shot. These tools can be accessed in the Basic tool panel, as shown above.

Likewise, it’s important to reduce any noise that’s present in the color photo, unless you want that grainy look for the black and white image you’ll create.

Naturally, doing these kinds of edits to a color photo is best accomplished if you shoot in RAW format. 

RAW files retain all the unprocessed data collected by the camera’s sensor, so there is far more data with which to work in post-processing than you get with a JPEG.

Additionally, RAW files allow you to process images without changing the source file and without losing image quality, neither of which is true for JPEGs. So, if you want the best results, shoot in RAW!

convert an image to black and white step 1.3

YouTube Screenshot/Alien Skin Software

When working on the original color photo, be sure to consult the histogram in Exposure (shown above), that way you can see if the adjustments you’re making are clipping the highlights or shadows. 

In this sample, the image could use a little more brightness.

convert an image to black and white step 1.4

 YouTube Screenshot/Alien Skin Software

As you can see above, dragging the Exposure slider to the right brightens the shot. Adding a little contrast further helps prepare this image for conversion to black and white.

Learn More:

Convert an Image to Black and White Step 2: The Black and White Conversion 

convert an image to black and white step 2.1

YouTube Screenshot/Alien Skin Software

The second step in the process is to initiate the black and white conversion.

As you can see above, this is a simple task of selecting the Black & White option in the Basic panel. Once you do so, Exposure converts the image for you.

convert an image to black and white step 2.2

YouTube Screenshot/Alien Skin Software

The Black & White setting applies the default color settings to the shot, the result of which is an image with a good base that’s ideal for black and white conversion. 

From here, it’s a matter of fine-tuning the image.

Quick Tip: Exposure also has a number of black and white presets you can use to make even faster black and white conversions. Learn more about these presets here.

Convert an Image to Black and White Step 3: Make Fine Adjustments to Colors 

convert an image to black and white step 3.1

YouTube Screenshot/Alien Skin Software

In this sample, the Clarity tool helps bring out the details in the shot, particularly in the rocky areas in the foreground.

convert an image to black and white step 3.2

YouTube Screenshot/Alien Skin Software 

As mentioned before, the default color settings are applied to the black and white image. You can access these settings in the Color Panel, where you can adjust the brightness of each color to improve the contrast of the shot. 

Alternatively, you can use the color presets in Exposure to change the look of the shot depending on which color preset you use - red, blue, green, and so on.

convert an image to black and white step 3.3

YouTube Screenshot/Alien Skin Software

It’s also beneficial to use the Targeted Adjustment Tool (highlighted above) to brighten or darken specific colors in the shot. 

You simply click on an area of the image to select a color, and then drag the mouse up to brighten that color throughout the shot or drag the mouse down to darken it.

convert an image to black and white step 3.4

YouTube Screenshot/Alien Skin Software

In this example, the mountaintop, which has strong orange and yellow tones, was selected. 

By dragging the mouse upward, these two colors are boosted throughout the shot. Notice the difference in positioning on the orange and yellow color sliders in the image above from the image previous to that.

Learn More:

Convert an Image to Black and White Step 4: Make Tone Adjustments, Add a Vignette, and Sharpen

convert an image to black and white step 4.1

YouTube Screenshot/Alien Skin Software

Using the Tone Curve Panel (shown above), you can make pinpoint changes to the shadows, midtones, highlights, and overall contrast of the image.

By increasing the shadows, for example, and decreasing the midtones, you can enhance contrast that will make the image a more appealing black and white photo.

convert an image to black and white step 4.2

YouTube Screenshot/Alien Skin Software 

You can also add a vignette - a slightly darkened area around the perimeter of the shot - to increase tonal differences and help draw the viewer’s eyes toward the center of the photo.

convert an image to black and white step 4.3

Lastly, you can sharpen the photo to make sure the image is as crisp as possible. 

In the Focus Panel (shown above), apply the Low Radius preset to add a moderate amount of sharpening.

It’s important to not go overboard with sharpening - less really is more, otherwise the image will look harsh and overedited.

convert an image to black and white step 4.4

 YouTube Screenshot/Alien Skin Software

And that’s it! This basic workflow for how to make a black and white photo will get you positive results each time.

And, as the video at the beginning of this article demonstrates, it doesn’t take but a few minutes to work through the conversion process in this manner.

Effective and fast - what more can you ask for?! 

If you haven’t tried Exposure yet, pick up a free 30-Day trial to give it a test drive and see how it can help you improve your post-processing workflow.

 



We Recommend


How to Correct Chromatic Aberration Quickly and Easily

How to Correct Chromatic Aberration Quickly and Easily

photo byaluxum via iStock

The manner in which lenses are constructed can cause colored fringes to appear in the image along hard edges.

These artifacts are known as chromatic aberration, which occurs when a lens refracts wavelengths of light onto different planes. 

This short tutorial explains how to correct chromatic aberrations. We’ll be demonstrating the process using Exposure Software. 

If you don’t own Exposure, you can download a free 30-day trial to give it a spin!

Step 1: Find a High-Contrast Edge

step 1 how to correct chromatic aberration

YouTube Screenshot/Exposure Software

Chromatic aberrations appear in high-contrast areas along edges, so that’s where you need to look to find the offending color fringing. 

The first step in how to fix chromatic aberrations is to zoom in to 100 percent (or more) in Exposure on an area with high contrast so you can easily see where the color fringing has occurred. 

Learn More:

Step 2: Select Your Lens’s Profile

step 2 quick chromatic aberration fix

YouTube Screenshot/Exposure Software 

The next step in how to correct chromatic aberrations is to use your lens’s specific chromatic aberration profile.

These profiles are designed to correct the chromatic aberrations that each supported lens creates.

The profiles make corrections automatically, however, there are manual controls you can utilize to dial in a more specific level of correction.

Step 3: Reduce Color Fringing

step 3 how to fix chromatic aberration

YouTube Screenshot/Exposure Software

The Blue and Red sliders should be used to reduce color fringing if the lens profile didn’t take care of it on its own.

If green or purple fringing is evident, make an adjustment to the Blue slider. When cyan or red fringing has occurred, adjust the Red slider.

In most cases, only these sliders will be needed to eliminate fringing. But, if additional adjustments are needed, you can use the Corner Color sliders to enhance or diminish the strength of corrections made in each corner.

step 3.2 what is chromatic aberration

YouTube Screenshot/Exposure Software 

Quick Tip: Exposure allows you to save lens correction settings as a preset, that way you can speed up the process and have a quick chromatic aberration fix. Select the gear icon at the top of the Lens Correction Panel to access the preset creation menu. Once saved, your lens preset will include all the settings in the panel, including chromatic aberration correction, vignette, and distortion.

Learn More

Step 4: Advanced Color Fringe Removal 

step 4.1 defringe

YouTube Screenshot/Exposure Software 

In most cases, the first three steps in this process are enough to correct chromatic aberration.

However, sometimes fringing needs more attention to effectively remove it. That’s where Exposure’s Defringe Panel comes in.

The Defringing tool corrects colors that remain after chromatic aberration correction has been utilized. 

step 4.2

YouTube Screenshot/Exposure Software 

Exposure makes this process easy because color fringes can be removed from all the edges in the photos (and for all colors) simultaneously. If you want more control, however, you can select each hue individually and correct each color on its own.

Just like in the Lens Correction Panel, you can create presets in the Defringe Panel to speed up the process of removing fringing for your particular lenses.

step 4.3 defringe preset

YouTube Screenshot/Exposure Software

Quick Tip: If Exposure does not have a chromatic aberration correction lens profile for your particular lens, you can use the Defringe Panel to remove chromatic aberration. Just set the defringe settings to match the colors of the fringing in the photo and the Defringe tool will remove them.

Removing chromatic aberrations really has never been so simple. With just a few clicks, you can easily take care of color fringing, and best of all, you can save your settings as a preset and automatically take care of these common issues when editing future images taken with the same lens.

If you need a refresher of these steps, check out the video above by Exposure Software

Ready to try Exposure for yourself? Learn more about Exposure and download your free trial!

 



We Recommend


How to Fix Bright Sunlight in Listing Photos

How to Fix Bright Sunlight in Listing Photos

photo bytammykayphoto via iStock

As a professional photographer and a photography teacher, I get asked questions on subjects from portraits to landscapes to real estate photography, and everything in between. Which is nice because as much as I love photography itself, I also like talking about it with others. 

How to photograph interiors for real estate, how to fix bright sunlight in listing photos, how to make real estate photos look better, and other real estate photography tips are on the minds of many realtors and beginner real estate photographers since the real estate market is super busy right now.

Exterior Real Estate Photography Techniques

real estate photography tips

photo byKatarzynaBialasiewicz via iStock

In real estate online listings, the first picture seen is often a view of the frontal exterior. If you’re a realtor shooting your own photos, you might have limited opportunity of specifying when to take the images. Depending on what direction the house is facing, bright sunlit areas and areas in deep shadow might be seen at the same time.  

The bracket and merge technique of shooting for a wide range of brightness levels, also known as HDR for high dynamic range photography, is a method used by digital photographers to ensure you get good detail showing in the brightest parts of the image as well as those deep shadows.

Bracket and merge is one of the best answers I know for the problem of how to fix bright sunlight in listing photos. Several different frames, anywhere from 3 or 5 up to 9, are shot at differing exposure settings. 

Some settings in this bracketed group are optimized for keeping the highlights from washing out, some are for ensuring getting adequate detail in the shadows, and then all are blended together in a post processing program. This YouTube video helps explain the idea and the technique itself. 

Learn More:

Interior Real Estate Photography Techniques

interior real estate photography techniques

photo bypepmiba via iStock

Inside the properties, there may be all sorts of different lighting conditions that cause a very wide range of exposure values. A common scenario is going to be a room with windows on one side of the room and the corners of other walls with almost no light hitting them. 

One technique of how to shoot a house with bright windows and dark corners is to add lights such as a flash bounced off the ceiling or a couple of portable LED softbox lights pointed into the corners or other dark areas of a room.

With the advanced metering solutions of current digital cameras, it is easier than ever to add multiple lights and  be able to calculate a decent exposure. Which will work in many situations, but it adds the complication of carrying around more equipment and still won’t solve the dynamic range issue we run into with bright windows.

An alternative for how to shoot a house with bright windows is to use the same bracket and merge HDR technique for blending the extremely bright window light with the darker further walls or cabinets.

This method of how to fix bright sunlight in listing photos has an interesting and beneficial side effect. It lets us see the scene through the window without blown out highlights. For some listings, this simultaneous view of what’s outside along with the inside shows off home features in a realistic view that mimics someone being in the house themselves, a valuable tool for real estate listings that result in showings.

Other Useful Techniques

how to photograph interiors for real estate

photo byDrazen_ via iStock

Real estate photography benefits from our having a good understanding of basic exposure, composition, lighting, and post processing methods, plus how certain tools work to enhance our photographic capabilities.

A circular polarizer is one of the most useful filters we can have for photographing exteriors since it can eliminate or reduce reflections in windows, water features, and other shiny elements. 

A tripod is an essential piece of equipment for most real estate photography, especially if we’re using HDR photography. The technique uses multiple frames of the same view with different exposure settings. In order for the frames to register properly, there should be no movement between exposures.

Tripod use is also encouraged for real estate photography because the wide angle lenses used tend to make straight lines look off if the camera is tilted a little bit, so leveling out with a tripod is an important thing to keep in mind as we start shooting.

A checklist really helps, too, because we don’t want to miss any rooms, areas, or features as we shoot on the usually very limited schedule time available for taking pictures of the property. 

That’s pretty much the basics for how to fix bright sunlight in listing photos  and several other solutions concerning proper exposure. A couple of practice runs on your own home will likely show any areas where you might need to make use of other useful techniques for controlling exposure, composition, and processing.

Learn More:

 



We Recommend


Level Up Your Portrait Photography Editing With These Advanced AI Tools

luminar ski ai

Photo courtesy of Skylum

Regardless of whether you love it or hate it, there’s no denying that the age of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is upon us. Companies like Google, Microsoft, and Adobe have been developing AI programs for years, but it wasn’t until the release of ChatGPT in 2022 that AI officially went mainstream.  

While the uses of AI are limitless, in this article, we’ll focus on how AI can help during the photo editing process—specifically portrait photography editing. We’ll share advanced AI tools that smooth skin, make eyes sparkle, add bokeh, and more! That said, only one program, Skylum Luminar Neo, boasts all the tools covered below.

Skylum Luminar Neo is an innovative picture editing software that offers a wide range of powerful editing capabilities, is easy to use, and is available across all platforms (macOS, Windows, and mobile devices). Additionally, a plugin lets you integrate it directly into Lightroom and Photoshop and allows you to use both programs hand-in-hand.

Now, keep reading to discover how AI can simultaneously increase your productivity, enhance your images, and take your portrait photography editing skills to the next level!

Check out the video above on the Luminar Neo YouTube Channel to learn more about portrait photo editing with Skylum Luminar Neo. 

Table of Contents

Portrait Photography Editing: Skin AI

luminar skin ai before and after

Whether you are shooting professional headshots, family portraits, or weddings, smooth skin is one of the principles of portrait photography. Images with too much grain and texture are among the most common problems, particularly when shooting in low-light conditions. However, that’s super easy to fix with the help of Skin AI

Skin AI automatically adjusts the softness and shine of skin to make it look better and more realistic. If you want to make further micro-adjustments, Luminar Neo provides two adjustable sliders and a “Skin Defects Removable” box you can check/uncheck. 

luminar neo portrait banner

Portrait Photography Editing: Face AI

luminar face ai

Photo courtesy of Skylum 

Do you want to highlight the beautiful smiles of your subjects and make them pop? That’s where Face AI comes in. It reads people's faces, detects their lips, and makes them stand out from the rest of the face—all with the push of a button and without using a mask or creating extra layers.

The three main parts of Face AI are redness, saturation, and darkening. They work together to show off gorgeous smiles, leading to more memorable photos.

Portrait Photography Editing: Eyes AI

luminar eyes ai samples

Photo courtesy of Skylum

People frequently say, “Eyes are the gateway to the soul,” and that is just as true in photos as it is in real life. In portrait photography, eyes have a magical way of transmitting emotion and telling a story to viewers. On top of that, they are often the first thing people notice and what attracts them to a good portrait. 

With Eyes AI, you can brighten people’s eyes to make them shine. Alternatively, you can quickly and easily change the color of someone's eyes with the click of a button! Color choices include blue, green, brown, hazel, honey, mint, etc.  

Learn More:

Portrait Photography Editing: Silhouette AI

luminar silhouette ai

Photo courtesy of Skylum 

Sometimes, people tend to blend in with their background, leading to portraits being less impressive than they should be. There are two ways to fix this. The first way is using Silhouette AI. It maintains the clarity of your background while enhancing your subject.

You’ll be surprised how much a simple silhouette makes a difference in the final image. Silhouette AI is ideal for images with stunning backgrounds (landscapes, skies, props, etc.) you wish to leave untouched. 

Portrait Photography Editing: Portrait Bokeh AI

luminar bokeh ai

Photo courtesy of Skylum

Using Portrait Bokeh AI is the other way to separate your subjects from their background. It’s the opposite of Silhouette AI because it doesn’t apply any edits to your subject but instead changes the background.

It adds realistic bokeh to your images, creating beautiful depth-of-field effects and isolating your subjects from their background. Sliders let you adjust the amount of bokeh applied as well as its radius, softness, and opacity. 

Portrait Photography Editing: GenSwap AI

luminar genswap portrait

  Photo courtesy of Skylum

Lastly, Luminar Neo recently unveiled a new feature called GenSwap AI. It allows you to easily transform portraits by changing the color of objects (clothes, hair, etc.), replacing a distracting element in the background, or adding new AI-generated details to the image based on prompts. 

Think of GenSwap as a one-of-a-kind time machine. You can use it to enhance your photos and generate the final results you would have liked to create when you initially framed up the shot. 

Final Thoughts on Portrait Photography Editing

luminar silhouette ai 2

Photo courtesy of Skylum 

As you can see, there are tons of amazing AI tools for portrait photography editing. We only recently started taking advantage of them thanks to Skylum Luminar Neo, and the results have absolutely blown us away. Today, we spend less time than ever photo editing, and our pictures have never looked better!  

On top of that, Luminar Neo is extremely affordable. The month-to-month subscription runs at $14.95/month, the 12-month plan costs $9.92/month (billed $119 yearly), and the 24-month plan is $7.46/month (billed $179 every two years). They also offer a lifetime purchase option currently on sale for a one-time payment of $299. Visit their Pricing Page to learn more.

Do you shoot more than portraits? Check out the list below to see the other types of photographers who can benefit from working with Luminar Neo:

So not only does Luminar Neo save you time and money, but it also provides targeted tools for your work, no matter what photography niche you specialize in. What more could you want from your picture editing software?!

Recommended Photography Gear

Learn More:



We Recommend


Luminar 4 First Impressions

luminar 4 first impressions

Those of you that follow us here at PhotographyTalk know that we’ve been impressed with past versions of Luminar in addition to other Skylum products, like the venerable AuroraHDR.

But Skylum, never wanting to miss an opportunity to wow us with advanced editing tools, is about to drop Luminar 4, and it’s certainly something we should all be excited about.

To say that Skylum has brought it in Luminar 4 is an understatement - this first look at this new update gives you a sneak peek at some of its most impressive features.

New Features in Luminar 4

new features in luminar 4

One of the best new features in Luminar 4 is the updated Edit Module.

It’s not like Luminar 3 wasn’t super easy to use with an intuitive layout, but Luminar 4 takes it up a notch with a redesigned experience that improves your ability to find and use the tools you need to get the job done.

Also new in Luminar 4 is the Color Style Library that allows you to change the color and mood of your images with cinematic color styles. This feature works beautifully with a vast library of Luminar Looks - creative presets that give you the power to customize the look of your images with just a few clicks.

What’s great about Looks, though, is that they aren’t just a “click-and-apply” preset. Instead, you can fine-tune the Looks to your specifications and make them truly adaptive to your needs. See what I mean in the video above by The Art of Photography.

Add to that improved stability and performance, an upgraded Golden Hour Filter, and improved Denoise Filter, and an upgraded Adjustable Gradient Filter, and you have the makings of a high-powered photo editor! 

But that’s not all that’s new in Luminar 4…

There are plenty of AI-powered features that make it a next-level image editor.

Luminar 4 Features AI Sky Replacement

AI sky replacement

Yep, you read that right… 

In Luminar 4, you can actually replace the sky - not just edit it, but totally replace it! 

And it’s an intelligent replacement, too. That is, you don’t have to make selections or create masks. Instead, it’s an automated process by which intelligent selection algorithms selects only the sky, leaving tiny details like leaves, grass, birds, or hair alone.

The Sky Replacement Tool also removes artifacts like halos and hard edges. It even relights the entire photo, that way the original image matches the new sky. It will even choose the best orientation of the replacement sky, that way it looks and feels realistic when paired with the original image. 

See AI Sky Replacement in action in the video above by Dustin Abbott.

Luminar 4 Includes AI Portrait Tools Too

AI portrait tools

All you portrait enthusiasts out there can take advantage of Luminar 4’s new Portrait Enhancer and Skin Enhancer tools to create breathtaking portraits.

The Portrait Enhancer has a dozen different tools that give you total control over precise edits. 

From removing red eye to whitening eyes, relighting the model’s face to adjusting the details of the model’s lips, and more, you can manipulate sliders to get the perfect look in your portraits. You can even brighten the model’s face, as shown above.

AI portrait tools 2

As if that’s not enough, Luminar 4 also includes an AI Skin Enhancer, which uses human-aware technology to find all the skin in a photo - face, arms, legs, and so forth - all on its own, regardless of skin type or the age of the model.. 

Then, it removes blemishes and smooths out skin, all without losing details like pores, texture, and hair.

Again, these portrait tools make use of AI, so there is no masking or selections needed. Instead, these changes can be made with one click with easy adjustments to their strength via sliders.

Use AI Structure to Reveal Details in Images  

use AI structure

Traditionally, photographers have used tools like Structure and Clarity to enhance details in their images, but to the detriment of other parts of the photo because these tools were applied to the entire photo.

Not anymore…

Luminar 4 has an AI Structure feature that automatically identifies objects and improves their details in a content-aware way.

Whether it’s a person’s face, clouds, buildings, water, or some other object, the AI Structure tool brings a greater level of detail and richness without any part of the image looking overworked.

On top of that, AI Structure improves texture, clarity, and dynamic range. It does this without introducing any artifacts, noise, or halos.

Luminar 4 Turns Hours of Editing Into Minutes 

luminar 4 turns hours of editing into minutes

Truthfully, with all these high-powered tools, Luminar 4 makes your photo editing workflow so much more timely.

Combined with the best features from Luminar 3 - like the Accent AI Filter (which makes a dozens of selective adjustments using human-aware technology), Smart Contrast, which carefully preserves colors and details while boosting contrast, a library feature to help you organize, sort, and find images, and more than 70 Looks to unleash your creativity - there is nothing stopping you from creating epic photos.

You can check out our complete Luminar 3 Review to see what features it has to offer, and be sure to stay tuned for our full Luminar 4 Review coming up soon!

In the meantime, watch the quick overview of Luminar 4 in the video above, then go ahead and pre-order Luminar 4 (with additional goodies)!

 



We Recommend


Photo Editing Tips for Beginners

Photo Editing Tips for Beginners

Photo by scyther5 via iStock

Today, one of the most important steps in the photography process is editing your photos. However, we understand that photo editing is harder than it seems and that there’s a significant learning curve when getting started. Don’t worry, though. That’s exactly why we wrote this article. To help you improve your photo editing skills!

Below, we’ll share the top photo editing tips for beginners. They include choosing a beginner-friendly editing program, adjusting your images with curves/levels, cropping/resizing photos, using layers, and embracing the power of AI to make editing quicker and easier. 

Regardless of your photo editor, our tips and tricks will lead to faster, more efficient editing and better, more impressive results. Now, without further ado, it’s time to dive in and discover the best photo editing tips for beginners!

Check out the video above by James Popsys for more photo editing tips for beginners from a professional landscape photographer. 

Table of Contents

First Things First: Set Yourself Up for Success With a Beginner-Friendly Photo Editor

beginner photo editing tips

Photo courtesy of Skylum

When dipping your toes into the world of photo editing, the last thing you want is to get in over your head and feel overwhelmed. The best way to avoid that is by using a good photo editor for beginners. For us, that means Skylum’s Luminar Neo

Why is it the best photo editor for beginners? For starters, it boasts a simple and clutter-free user interface. Moreover, its intuitive workflow and powerful editing tools allow you to improve the quality of any photo in a minute or less with only a few button clicks.

You can download Luminar Neo and use it as a standalone app or pair it with other programs like Adobe Lightroom, Adobe Photoshop, or Apple Photos using the Luminar Neo plugin. Finally, you can try it risk-free thanks to its 30-day money-back guarantee.

Photo Editing Tips for Beginners: Master Curves and Levels

curves in luminar neo

Photo courtesy of Skylum

Regardless of what adjustments you want to make to your photos, the two primary ways to do it are using curves and levels. For total beginners, we recommend adjusting the levels using your photo editor's built-in sliders. Sliders are easy to use, and you can see how they change your pictures in real-time. 

Once you have a little more experience, you can play around with curves. They are a little trickier, but they can boost your productivity and workflow speed once you get the hang of them. Curves are good for adjusting tonal range, colors, and contrast. 

Learn How to Crop and Resize

luminar neo genexpand landscape

As a beginner, chances are you are still learning the rules of composition. Luckily for you, though, thanks to editing, you can easily fix any composition mistakes you make during shooting. Cropping lets you change the shape of an image to fix the composition or to draw more attention to your subject.  

Alternatively, you can make files smaller by resizing them. Resizing photos ensures they take up less space on your storage devices and makes them easier to share with others and upload to the internet. If that wasn’t enough, Luminar Neo’s amazing new GenExpand tool allows you to expand your photos like never before.

Learn More:

Photo Editing Tips for Beginners: Use Layers to Create Intricate Images

layers in luminar neo

Photo courtesy of Skylum

Adding layers to images is an excellent way to make them stand out from other pictures. Using the layer tool in your photo editor, you can retouch images, blend multiple images together, make photo collages, create new textures, and more.

Another cool way to use the layer tool is masking. Masking is when you create two unique layers featuring the same image. Once you have both layers, you can edit specific parts of the image (i.e., foreground vs background) without affecting the the other. While masking can help with any photo, it’s particularly useful for nature and landscape photography.

Let AI Help You!

luminar neo enhance ai before and after

Photo courtesy of Skylum

Did you know some photo editors, like Luminar Neo, now feature innovative AI tools? AI technology makes it possible to accomplish all the same edits people used to have to do manually but in remarkably less time. This gives you more free time to take photos, spend time with your family, enjoy other hobbies, etc. 

Here’s a quick look at some of Luminar Neo’s advanced AI tools:

Check out the video above on the Luminar Neo YouTube Channel to learn more about one of their most powerful AI tools, Sky AI.

More Photo Editing Tips for Beginners

More Photo Editing Tips for Beginners

Photo by gorodenkoff via iStock 

As you can see, there’s so much to learn about editing photos. But by implementing the photo editing tips for beginners covered above, you can start to edit like a pro in no time. Additionally, to make your lives easier, we highly recommend using Luminar Neo to simplify the editing process. 

Lastly, while those photo editing tips for beginners are a good starting point, check out the list below to enhance your photo editing skills further.

  • Shoot RAW Photos instead of JPEGs. 
  • Learn to correctly white-balance your images.
  • Use vibrance and saturation to make your colors pop. 
  • Make sure you control the noise levels of your pictures. 
  • Don’t overedit your photos to the point where they look unrealistic. 

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Portrait Post-Processing Tips

Portrait Post Processing Tips

 photo byFG Trade via iStock

The portrait job isn’t done until the portrait post-processing is finished. Generally speaking, when I talk about how to process a portrait, I like to emphasize remaining as true as possible to the original subject. But there’s nothing wrong with enhancing aspects of the portrait image. 

A portrait subject will be happy with minimal tweaks or enhancements. We’re changing how the person looks, we’re making sure we’re showing the subject in the best possible way. Lighting, posing, and composition are part of our work, portrait post-processing is another important part.

Let’s examine some tips for how to process a portrait to give our subjects and clients the best natural looking images. We’re shooting for naturalism with these portrait photography processing tips. If you want to radically alter the images, that’s fine, check out some of our other photo processing articles.

Non-Destructive Editing 

portrait post processing 1

 photo byRidofranz via iStock

For these portrait post-processing tips and techniques, we prefer an image editing program that uses non-destructive editing. 

Adobe Photoshop Lightroom, to use its full name, is an example of this type of program that many portrait and wedding photographers have adopted as the program to beat. There are other fine programs that also use non-destructive editing, but we’ll mostly be referring to Lightroom in this article.

High-Res Monitors

In order to take full advantage of these Photoshop tips for portraits, we really need to be able to see clearly what we’re doing to our images. That means our monitor should be the best we can fit and afford.

High-resolution curved-screen monitors in a wide aspect ratio are made for this type of work. A curved and very wide screen in a large monitor gives what is called an immersive editing experience. 

The 34 inch and 38 inch monitors from ViewSonic, the VP3481 and VP3881, are excellent choices for type of work. Though we may deliver images that we softened somewhat for our portrait clients, in order to get that image to be the best example possible, we need an ultra high-resolution monitor during processing so we can clearly see all aspects of the portrait post-processing workflow.

The ViewSonic monitors have superb color accuracy, are extremely sharp, and have features that can make our portrait post-processing workflow more effective.

Learn More:

Batch Corrections

An important advantage of non-destructive image editing is that we can quickly apply batch processing to numerous images at the same time. Some of the tools commonly used as batch processes are color balance, lens corrections, and exposure adjustments.

Color Balance

how to process a portrait 2

 photo bykupicoo via iStock

Since we mostly shot our images in RAW, we can now assign a color balance to the entire batch of image files. Even if we shot in JPEG, we can use the color balance controls to adjust or correct the white balance. 

One of the more important photoshop tips for portraits is that if we shoot with a color checker, we can virtually automate this process.

Lens Corrections

One of the advantages of digital photography is that post-processing can take care of a huge variety of small  problems such as the lens we used for our portraits tends towards barrel distortion or has color fringing issues.

With programs such as Lightroom, we can use the built in profiles to take core of those corrections in batch editing.

Exposure Adjustment

portrait photography processing tips 3

 photo bydamircudic via iStock

Minor exposure corrections or adjustments for portrait post-processing can also be taken care of with batch processing. Take one representative image and edit the exposure sliders, which can be overall exposure or separate highlight, midtone, and shadow. Then, apply that to other files through batch editing.

Touch Up Tools 

This is one of the portrait post-processing tools that should be done to individual images. There is always some minor glitch that shows up in a portrait that if left unfixed will bug the subject every time they see it. It could be a skin blemish, a wrinkle or spot on their clothes, or an unwanted shadow or bright spot somewhere in the image.

This tool might be labeled clone, heal, spot removal, or something like that. This is one of the steps that you’ll be glad to be using a large high-resolution monitor so that you can clearly see exactly what you are changing.

Worth the Effort

photoshop tips for portraits 4

 photo bykupicoo via iStock

Portrait post-processing may take some time after the photoshoot, in fact it may take as long to process as it did to shoot the portrait in the first place. But the results are definitely worth it. Give your portrait photography clients the best images and prints you can deliver.

Learn More:

 



We Recommend


Pros and Cons of Farming Out Post-Processing

Pros and Cons of Farming Out Post Processing

Photo by HDesert via iStock

Choosing to farm out post-processing is a route that many photographers are taking. There are several reasons I’ve heard from various photographers that I know personally who shoot in different genres. 

What can you expect from farming out photo post-processing? What are the pros and cons of having someone else do your post-processing? How much will it cost you to opt into this service?

I will show what one photo printing company I use, Artbeat Studios, has available for photo post-processing for your print orders. Plus, I’ll talk about other post-processing ideas, including making yourself available for other photographers. Read on for more info!

Table of Contents:

Pros and Cons of Farming Out Post-Processing

Pros and Cons of Farming Out Post Processing 2

Photo by Eucalyptys via iStock

Pros:

  • When You’re Just Starting Out in Post-Processing
  • Tapping Into the Talents of Experts
  • Eliminating Post-Processing Workflow

Cons:

  • Less Control Over Post-Processing Choices
  • Like All Extra Services, There Is a Cost
  • When Time Is Critical

Pro: When You’re Just Starting Out in Post-Processing

Pro When Youre Just Starting Out in Post Processing

Photo by Obradovic via iStock 

An easy pro to see concerning having someone else do the post-processing for you is that it can help out a lot when you’re new to photo post-processing. 

As an example, Artbeat Studio uses Adobe Photoshop for much of its in-house image file adjustment. They can use this powerful program to enhance your image files if you don’t think you know the program (or another post-processing program) well enough yet. 

They can enhance colors, reduce digital noise, and increase the sharpness level of the image file you upload for them to print. 

Pro: Tapping Into the Talents of Experts

Pro Tapping Into the Talents of Experts

Photo by simpson33  via iStock

Directly related to the first pro listed, this pro means that your images can be enhanced by time-tested experts in photo post-processing. An expert in post-processing won’t ruin a file by over-processing it unless you have a specific idea of something outrageous to be done.

When a photographer or a photo printing technician has a lot of experience in the field of post-processing, they know what small tweaks can make a huge difference. They can also tell you whether your idea about post-processing will work well. While no one can truly understand your artistic intent, listening to what an expert thinks is a good idea.

Artbeat Studios can consider any special request, from spot removal to custom image manipulation. Just put it in the notes and let them talk to you about it. The same thoughts apply if you hire someone on a website like Fiverr or Upwork for your post-processing.

Learn More:

Pro: Eliminating Post-Processing Workflow

Pro Eliminating Post Processing Workflow

A big reason why many photographers choose to have a service work on their post-processing is to eliminate or at least reduce their workflow. You may need a service for large batches of post-processing, such as what you might need for HDR real estate photography or weddings. 

A few real estate photography companies I’ve worked for have their own proprietary post-processing. If you sign on for that type of gig work, you upload the files based on their specs, and then they do all the other stuff, often also including file delivery.

Con: Less Control Over Post-Processing Choices

Con Less Control Over Post Processing Choices

Photo by ronstik  via iStock

Even when I’ve done a simple shoot and uploaded RAWs, I always think about what I would want the final image to look like. Relying on a service means you have less control over how things turn out, sometimes no control in the case of real estate or wedding editing services.

Using Artbeat Studios for a special print has input channels for communication, letting you specify or suggest certain enhancements or changes. You can also request a soft proof, which adds to the turn-around time and final price.

Con: Like All Extra Services, There Is a Cost

Con Like All Extra Services There Is a Cost

Photo by PeopleImages via iStock

TANSTAAFL: There Ain’t No Such Thing As A Free Lunch! If you want something done well for you, I might add that you’ll have to pay for that to happen. 

There are different levels of cost. A site like Fiverr might have some less expensive options available. Using the ArtBeat Studios image enhancement option adds to the price of each print ordered. Doing gig work for firms that do their own post-processing means you don’t get paid as much for that type of work. 

Con: When Time Is Critical

Con When Time Is Critical

Photo by imagedepotpro via iStock

As in any business, the saying is true in a photography business: Time is money. If you want something done on your timetable, you should do it yourself. 

The same thought holds for photography image post-processing. Farming out any operation adds time. You can make allowances for the extra time, but that’s basically what it comes down to.

Summary: Letting Others Do Post-Processing for You

Summary Letting Others Do Post Processing for You

PHOTO BY ANDREPOPOV VIA ISTOCK

In short, hiring someone else or a firm to do your photo post-processing isn’t a bad idea. You just need to know all sides of the issue and the pros and cons. 

Artbeat Studios has a great option for post-processing your image before printing. Look at their YouTube video covering how to order prints from them for more ideas about everything they offer:

If the idea of getting into the gig work of being the person someone else hires for post-processing intrigues you, check into becoming a service provider on Fiverr or Upwork. Remember, the pros and cons of farming out post-processing will apply to you seeking to have it done for you or being the person others hire.

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Simple Lightroom Editing Tips for 2021

Simple Lightroom Editing Tips for 2021

 photo byfilmstudio via iStock

If you’re new to Lightroom, or even if you’re just trying to be more honest with the way you edit your images (I’m looking at you, presets), you may be feeling a little overwhelmed.

But, with the help of Nigel Danson’s simple Lightroom editing tips, you’ll be editing like a pro in no time. 

While you should obviously watch his entire video, I’ve pulled out a few of my favorite simple Lightroom editing tips for you below. 

Closely Examine Your Photo

simple lightroom editing tips

photo byandresr via iStock

Before you do anything else with an image in Lightroom, take your exposure slider and push it all the way down. This will allow you to see where all of the detail in your photos is located, since it will darken parts of the image without as much detail. 

Then, do the exact opposite. Take your exposure slider and push it all the way up. This will, once again, allow you to see a ton of detail in your photo that you otherwise wouldn’t have seen if you hadn’t checked it before you began.

By messing with the exposure slider before you actually start editing your image, you’re figuring out what details you want to get from your finished image.

Mess with Your Contrast

lightroom tips for 2021

photo byrecep-bg via iStock

One of my favorite simple Lightroom editing tips is to mess with your image before you’ve even begun to edit it.

Just like you changed the exposure in the tip above, you’ll now change your contrast. Adjust your contrast slider all the way to the left, examine the photo, then slide it all the way to the right and examine the photo again.  

This will allow you to figure out where you should slightly increase or decrease your contrast before you get too far into the editing process to recognize something this basic.

Importantly, you will have to know how to use local adjustments to change the contrast on specific parts of your images. If you don’t already know how to do this, then you could benefit from this Nigel Danson video.  

Learn More:

Focus on Local Adjustments

how to edit photos in lightroom 4

photo byRossHelen via iStock

I’ve noticed that a lot of beginner Lightroom tips really focus on changing an entire image. Or, worse, they’ll focus on using presets from other photographers in order to edit their images.

While there is a time and place for global adjustments to your photos, not enough photographers are focusing on local adjustments in their images. This means that a lot of the detail in your photos is likely being lost. Doing this may also make your images look to be of a lower quality. It’s something I can automatically pinpoint when I’m scrolling through Instagram and I’m sure you can too. 

So, while you’re learning how to edit photos in Lightroom, actually learn how to edit your whole image. Try not to touch the adjustments on the far right of the screen too much before you start changing only certain aspects of your photo. 

Never Think an Image is “Too Far Gone”

how to use lightroom

photo byMorsa Images via iStock

One sort of toxic idea in the beginner photography community is that you can mess up your editing so badly that you need to pull up a copy of your original file again and start over. But, if you’re following all of the simple Lightroom editing tips that you should be, then there’s really no way to ruin an image in Lightroom.

For instance, let’s say that you accidentally overexposed your image, like the one shown above. The detail that you think you’ve lost is still there in the photo to some degree. You just have to get it back.

And you can by using local adjustments to reduce the exposure wherever you need to.

HDR Isn’t Outdated

beginner lightroom tips

photo byFilippoBacci via iStock

HDR used to be associated with pretty terrible images that a lot of photographers were obsessed over in the early 2000s. 

But, there’s a time and a place for everything when you’re learning how to use Lightroom, even HDR.

In order to use some of these simple Lightroom editing tips, you’ll need to adjust the way that you’re shooting. This is one of those tips.

So, while you’re out shooting, take the same image two or three times. Take it where you normally would, then go down a stop or two and take the image, then go up a stop or two and take the image. This will allow you to have a broader dynamic range when you actually edit your image. 

Given the fact that most of these simple Lightroom editing tips don’t take any real time from you, it may be wise to play around with your exposure in this way while you’re shooting to see if you can’t really change how great your images look.  

Don’t Be Afraid to Reduce Clarity

beginner lightroom tips 2

photo byAlan Currie via iStock

A lot of Lightroom tips for 2021 are all about increasing the clarity of your images. People are almost afraid to lose any detail. 

While I love a crisp, clean photo, I also understand that there are certain photos which call for a little added moodiness.  

It’s why you shouldn’t be afraid to reduce the clarity of your images. Sometimes, by reducing the clarity, you’ll actually add a feeling of ethereal beauty to them.  

Alright, guys. I hope you’ve enjoyed this list of simple Lightroom editing tips. Let me know which ones you end up trying!

Learn More:

 



We Recommend


Skylum's Luminar Neo Helps Streamline Photo Editing With Incredible Generative AI Tools

luminar neo genexpand landscape sunset

Photo courtesy of Skylum 

In 2023, state-of-the-art artificial intelligence (AI) technology finally hit the mainstream market and became available for everyone to use. That trend will only continue to grow in 2024. While AI chatbots like ChatGPT have garnered most of the attention to this point, the truth is that AI tech is everywhere, from new cars to photo and video editing programs. 

One example is Skylum’s Luminar Neo. It’s an innovative photo editor that’s easy to use, jam-packed with powerful generative AI tools, and available across all platforms (macOS, Windows, and mobile devices). Furthermore, a super useful plugin lets you integrate Luminar Neo directly into Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop and use the programs hand-in-hand.

In this article, we’ll first explain exactly what generative AI is. Then, we’ll break down three of Luminar Neo’s incredible generative AI tools: GenErase, GenSwap, and GenExpand. For each one, we’ll share what it does, how it can enhance the quality of your photos, and why it will increase your productivity. 

Join us below to explore generative AI and discover how Luminar Neo’s one-of-a-kind generative AI tools can help you become a better photographer!

Table of Contents

What is Generative AI?

Whereas traditional AI can only read, analyze, and output pre-existing data, generative AI is a newly developed type of artificial intelligence whose goal is to create new, original content. It can be used to create stunning images, text, audio, and more. Popular examples of traditional AI are Siri and Alexa. On the other hand, ChatGpt is the most famous generative AI program.

For photographers, generative AI is a game-changing technology that makes post-processing images faster and easier. You can use it to make tiny edits or transform your images into gorgeous new art pieces. Keep reading to find out more about Lunminar Neo's generative AI tools.

Luminar Neo Generative AI Tools: GenErase

luminar neo generase portrait

Photo courtesy of Skylum

Everyone has experienced the disappointment of taking a beautiful photo, only to realize later that an unwanted person or object was accidentally in the frame. That’s where the GenErase tool comes in! It lets you quickly select distracting elements from an image and delete them with a single click.  

Better yet, it automatically scans the rest of your image and intelligently fills the removed areas with content that flawlessly matches its surroundings. This means your photos will come out looking like you originally planned, and nobody will be able to notice you’ve altered the image.

GenErase is ideal for removing objects such as people, animals, reflections, vehicles, electric wires, trash, etc., making it a great tool for landscape, street, and travel photographers. 

Check out the video above on the Luminar Neo YouTube Channel to learn more about their GenErase AI tool. 

Learn More:

Luminar Neo Generative AI Tools: GenSwap

luminar neo genswap 1

Photo courtesy of Skylum 

Ok, let’s say you want to get a bit more creative. Instead of simply deleting something from an image, you want to add something, too. That’s the job of the GenSwap tool. It allows you to effortlessly enhance the composition of an image by replacing existing subjects or adding entirely new elements to your photos.

This generative AI technology can add everything from trees and mountains to animals and houses. So, if some of your pictures came out a little duller than you expected, GenSwap can change them into captivating images that will impress your family and friends. 

luminar genswap portrait

Photo courtesy of Skylum

One time we love to use the GenSwap tool is when editing portraits. You can swap out the background, change the model’s clothes, or even change the colors of physical features like hair and eyes (or fingernails, as shown above). 

Check out the video above on the Luminar Neo YouTube Channel to learn more about their GenSwap AI tool. 

Luminar Neo Generative AI Tools: GenExpand

luminar neo genexpand landscape

Photo courtesy of Skylum

Luminar Neo’s newest generative AI feature is the recently announced GenExpand tool. This groundbreaking invention lets photographers expand their images beyond what they captured on camera. Think of it as the opposite of cropping. Rather than changing a photo's composition by making it smaller, GenExpand makes it bigger by adding content-aware elements.

Three situations in which it can be used are when you want to create a panoramic photo, give your subjects more breathing room, or if you accidentally cut off an important part of a scene. Therefore, GenExpand is perfect for editing landscapes, cityscapes, and wildlife photography, to name a few.

Check out the video above on the Luminar Neo YouTube Channel to learn more about their GenExpand AI tool.

Final Thoughts on Luminar Neo

luminar neo generase wildlife

Photo courtesy of Skylum 

Wow! Luminar Neo offers an amazing package of generative AI tools no photo editing software can match, not even traditional powerhouses like Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop. So, if you want to boost the quality of your photos while simultaneously saving time and money, try it out today.  

Speaking of money, Luminar Neo is extremely affordable. The month-to-month subscription runs at $14.95/month, the 12-month plan costs $6.58/month (billed $79 yearly), and the 24-month plan is $4.96/month (billed $119 every two years). They also offer a lifetime purchase option currently on sale for a one-time payment of $149. Visit their Pricing Page to learn more.

Finally, check out the links below to see how Luminar Neo helps with different types of photography.

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We Recommend


These Landscape Photography Editing Tips Will Take Your Photos to the Next Level

These Landscape Photography Editing Tips Will Take Your Photos to the Next Level

Knowing how to edit a landscape photo creatively will bring your landscape photography images to the next level of quality and viewability.

Since there is such a variety of fine post-processing programs available, these landscape photography editing tips will concentrate on the creative aspect, leaving the actual mechanics of the specific operations for your program’s product support tutorials.

Post-Processing Tips for Landscape Photography

how to edit a landscape photo

 photo byijeab via iStock

I will highlight seven different landscape photography editing tips to help you create the most impactful image: 

  • Use your program’s product support and YouTube for tutorials
  • Shoot RAW and pull out shadow detail
  • Adjust colors subtly
  • Crop for creative effect
  • Sharpen and remove noise
  • Use high-quality monitors for photo editing
  • Save large files. 

Use Product Support Materials and YouTube Tutorials

Seriously, how many of us read the manuals for the equipment and programs we have? I know I have a problem with that, trusting my experience and instinct to get me through the basics. I’ve learned to make myself study, though. It’s easy, and it’s free! 

Additionally, I schedule time to improve my knowledge and skills by accessing the many fine tutorials online for my stuff.

Some manufacturers have video tutorials, others are illustrated and printed word. YouTube is another source for high quality instruction. In order to make sure I don’t waste my time, I limit myself to following only highly rated channels.

A great example of a fine YouTube tutorial for photo editing is the video above by Photoshop Training Channel.

Shoot RAW for Shadow Detail

One of the most basic techniques for how to edit a landscape photo for better results is to shoot in RAW file mode and make sure not to blow out the highlights in the original exposure.

The reason this works is because RAW holds a lot more exposure detail, especially in the shadows, than the compressed files such as JPEG.

I still carefully check exposure to have the best in-camera image possible, exposing in such a way as to not blow out any important highlights. Generally speaking, you can pull out lots of shadow detail but overexposed highlight details are gone. 

Get more details on the RAW vs JPEG debate in the video above by Adorama TV.

Subtly Adjust Colors

One of the biggest things some photographers object to concerning post-processing is the unnatural look and feel of some of the images they’ve seen. When discussing post-processing tips with anyone, I like to highlight the art of subtle changes.

Personally, I see nothing wrong with certain obvious effects when it results in an amazing image. What traps some beginners about post-processing is always trying to do those effects in a large way.

Many times, a slight tweak of a color or hue will give you outstanding results that have a natural look and feel while presenting your creative art and vision. Combined with pulling out shadow detail, such adjustments can take your photos to the next level

The video above by the Photoshop Training Channel walks you through the process of making the colors in your images really pop.

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Crop Creatively

Your camera has an aspect ratio of either 3:2 for APS-C and Full Frame or 4:3 for the MFT format. This will print into common print sizes like 4X6” or 3X4” and the larger multipliers of those.  

In order to print into the popular wall print sizes such as 16X20” or 24X30”, you are actually cropping to change the aspect ratio. Sometimes, we get into the habit of just cropping it down centered, but moving our crop box around in the image area might work out better for many images.

There are also uses for other crops, such as cropping to a square ratio for a classic feel or an ultra wide aspect ratio to give a panoramic feel to the image. Any cropping ratio you do, try out various parts of the image area before hitting the done button.

The video above by Live Snap Love gives you a detailed tutorial on cropping for maximum impact.

Sharpen / Remove Noise

Digital noise is similar to film grain for you old timers out there. It can be used creatively but many times for landscape photography, we are aiming for the clearest view in the final image. Most of the post-processing programs I am using have presets to remove noise, but you can also adjust the parameters as you see fit. 

The sharpen tool is another nice control for subtly improving your final image. It won’t fix your out-of-focus problems, but it will smooth pixelated edges which can degrade image quality. I generally do both of these at the end of my workflow for whatever image I’m editing.

The video above by ACDSee offers tips on restoring old photos.

Use High-Quality Monitors

All of the above landscape photography editing tips rely on you being to clearly see exactly what you’re doing. So, using the best monitors is vitally important to bring your post-processing to the next level.

I have recently upgraded for both photo and video editing to a two monitor setup, using large, wide, curved screen monitors. The curved screens gives me an immersive editing experience and the larger, wider screen is useful for seeing all the subtle detail in my image files.

Using either of these monitors along with your laptop will also help you with your post-processing. I chose the ViewSonic VP3881 38” curved screen monitor and added the 34” ViewSonic VP3481 as well. If you will be adding one extra monitor the 38” gives a lot more image area to work with but the smaller 34” is also fantastic and is less expensive.

Some of the reasons I chose these monitors is the curved screen for a more immersive viewing experience, the ultra high resolution sharpness, excellent color (4.39 trillion colors displayed), and the ability to tile my windows for a better workflow.

Save Large Files

If I am using a post-processing program with nondestructive editing, the original RAW files I shot are still preserved and the edits are saved as program instructions. But, if I have to export that image or if I’m working with a different type of editing program, I will save as the largest file I can in the needed format.

So, for exporting to clients or a website or some printing companies, I will save as a JPEG with my default settings as the largest, highest quality file option. If I need to make smaller files, too, I will usually work from that JPEG and resize.

When I’m using a program without nondestructive editing, I will save first as an uncompressed TIFF, the largest size available. Then, I can convert to any size JPEG for exporting to clients. I hate losing any image detail or information unless I have a specific reason for it.

In the video at the beginning of this section, the folks at PHLEARN go into great detail on different file format types.

What’s the Next Next Level?

landscape photography editing tips

 photo byshironosov via iStock

These landscape photography editing tips will take you from your already great results to the next level. Sometimes the tiniest improvement to your techniques, equipment, and skills will give your images an extra WOW factor that could result in increased income for pros and the satisfaction of seeing how fantastic your images have become. 

So, what’s the next level from here, the next next level? The next level is to keep your improvements going. Each time I work on something, I find out something else I like or an idea emerges that I want to work on. Keep adding to your skill level and your creativity will be unleashed as well.

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This AI-Powered Photo Editor Will Drastically Improve Your Real Estate Photography Workflow

real estate photography workflow with luminar

Photo courtesy of Skylum

Photo editing software maker Skylum has introduced an AI-powered software package that will drastically improve your real estate photography workflow.  

It’s called Luminar Neo, and if you do real estate photography as an agent or as a photographer, you will be amazed at how this fantastic software will benefit you.

Let’s dive in and explore this game-changing software!

Table of Contents:

Why You Need to Simplify Your Real Estate Photography Workflow

bracketing with luminar neo before

Photo courtesy of Skylum

Real estate photography needs to be as good as possible because of the big-ticket nature of the subject and also because it’s a very competitive field (both the real estate market itself and the field of real estate photography). 

Your workflow will become clear when we see how many raw images are needed for the most common types of real estate images. 

For example, bracket and merge HDR photography is a staple of real estate imaging for many photographers. With all of the advantages of that method, it really adds on a lot of workload because, while it doesn’t take much time to capture the image files, it can suck up time in the editing.

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If you aren’t using bracket and merge HDR, you are likely still spending a fair amount of time editing the single exposures to end up with images with detail in the highlights and dark tones. 

Good editing software like Luminar Neo minimizes the time you spend post-processing as part of your real estate photography workflow. Minimizing that is vital to providing the photos on time so they can be used in the listing as soon as possible.

bracketing with luminar neo

Photo courtesy of Skylum 

For example, the series of three images at the beginning of this section is quickly and seamlessly combined in Luminar Neo to create the image above - one that is beautifully lit with details in the shadows, midtones, and highlights. 

This process takes seconds - not minutes as it used to in traditional digital editing. Like I said, Luminar Neo can drastically improve your real estate photography workflow!

Non-Destructive Editing Improves Your Real Estate Photography Workflow

luminar neo sky replacement for real estate 1

Photo courtesy of Skylum

Luminar Neo uses non-destructive photo editing for its post-processing features. 

Non-destructive editing means that the original image file is not changed as you make your edits. Instead, the program takes note, as it were, of all of the changes you’re making and then applies them to the image only as it’s being saved as a specific type of file for exporting.

This speeds up your real estate photography workflow in several ways. You don’t have to save copies of the image you’re working on, which uses less computer space. Your workflow speeds up because you aren’t doing as many steps, and because the computer memory isn’t taken up, the computer can run faster. 

Another way in which non-destructive editing speeds up your real estate photography workflow is that you aren’t waiting on your computer to refresh RAM to save this file or that file or search for the part of the file batch you’re adjusting. It’s a win-win!

AI Tools Ease Your Real Estate Photography Workflow

luminar neo for real estate photography

Photo courtesy of Skylum

The feature of Luminar Neo that really helps your real estate photography workflow is the AI power built into the program (the workspace, shown above, is clean, intuitive, and easy to use as well). 

Have a look at this video from the Luminar Neo YouTube channel that helps explain the concept of AI-powered photo editing:

In real estate imaging, AI means that the standard and special processing tools work quicker and more intuitively. Luminar Neo has excellent real estate-optimized editing tools

HDR Merge Extension is one of the AI-powered tools most useful for real estate photography. It uses the settings you enable but makes optimal changes and adjustments to create the best, most balanced image from the files you input.

If you’re not using bracket and merge HDR due to time constraints or shooting last-second images for listings, Luminar Neo will expand the dynamic range by bringing down highlights and opening up shadows for you.

It can also add sky detail to make your final images stand out - another top feature for real estate photography. If you’ve ever taken exterior photos of a property at the wrong time of day, you know that the sky can look drab and lifeless. See how Luminar can help you with that in the video above!

In other words, Luminar Neo's AI power means you aren’t constantly readjusting as you try to figure out what looks best. Instead, the program guides you with intuitive input, easy-to-use tools, and a wealth of adjustments to help you create the best possible images.

How To Get Luminar Neo

luminar neo sky replacement for real estate 2

Photo courtesy of Skylum

There are three ways you can get Luminar Neo for yourself, either as a subscription or as a one-time purchase. All are exceptional values.

For example, you can subscribe on a monthly basis for $14.95 per month or opt for a yearly subscription for $179.00 annually. However, Skylum is currently offering a deal that gives you the 12-month subscription plus the Creative Assets Collection (a $300 value on its own) for just $79 per year.

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The best deal, though, is the 24-month subscription. You get Luminar Neo for two years and the Creative Assets Collection for $119.00. These deals end December 4th, 2023, so don’t waste any time signing up!

AI-powered photo editing, combined with non-destructive editing and the intuitive controls of Luminar Neo, means that your real estate photography workflow will improve drastically. Try out all of the features and tools for improving your editing for other types of photography as well. It’s an all-in-one tool that I’m sure you’ll find is worth its weight in gold!

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This Handy Gadget Will Speed Up Your Post-Processing Workflow

This Handy Gadget Will Speed Up Your Post Processing Workflow

 photo bygorodenkoff via iStock

The days of scrunching over your laptop for hours on end, working tirelessly to edit your photos precisely are over. 

Ikan’s recently-released Tourbox Photo and Video Editing Controller is the editing tool you’ve always needed but never realized. 

The controller simplifies the use of Photoshop, Lightroom and whatever other photo editing software your heart desires by working hand-in-hand with a mouse or graphic tablet to allow you to subtly adjust your photos. 

As you can see in the video above, this controller has 11 completely customizable buttons which allow you to adjust the temperature, exposure, and contrast of your photos, to switch between editing tools quickly, and to zoom in and out of your photos with ease.  

But, my favorite quality of the controller is that it lets photographers do what photographers do best: focus on their creativity.

You will never again need to be interrupted by complicated procedures or distractions. The Tourbox Photo and Video Editing Controller essentially functions as an extension of your hand, and after using it, you’ll wonder how you ever worked without it before.  

 

 

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Let’s give a huge thank you to Daniel Marchione for doing an unboxing and review of the controller. A few important things to note that Marchione points out are that the controller features rubber grips underneath it, so it’s never going to slide around on you while you’re working.

Additionally, whereas other photo and video editing tools are a lot larger than the Tourbox, you can use this controller with just one hand and you don’t even need to move your hand. Every single button is accessible from one resting position because the entire controller measures 4” by 4.5”.  

Plus, Ikan really thought of everything while they were creating this controller. Since the Tourbox plugs into your USB port on your laptop, they installed an additional USB port on the top of the controller to ensure you still have one when you need it.  

And, as Marchione points out, there’s no point in having a video and editing tool that is customizable if you can’t play around with how you want your controller to act. Every button can be adjusted with one click of your mouse on the preset list until you understand the exact way you want your controller to function.

photo editing gear 1

As I previously mentioned, the Tourbox comes with two layout presets, one for Photoshop and one for Lightroom, but if you need presets for other software, like Final Cut or Premiere, you can download them on the Ikan website. 

So, let’s talk specs.

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The Tourbox Photo and Video Editing Controller is compatible with both Windows and macOS. Each button is completely customizable so you can create your own personal presets, just how you like them.  

I also wouldn’t be as stoked about this editing controller if it didn’t work with any software, because while Lightroom and Photoshop will always have my heart, I would hate to buy an editing controller that wouldn’t work with a cool new editing software in the future.

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Importantly, it’s also designed ergonomically. There’s no reason to spend $60 on a mouse built with ergonomics in mind to turn around and buy an editing controller that isn’t. It’s slightly larger than your palm to ensure ease of use. Each button is incredibly pronounced. Essentially, it’s built like a modern video game controller. 

It weighs 386g or just under 1 lb, so it's definitely not a burden to travel with. 

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It’s also built to last, which means you can throw it in your backpack, carry it around with you all day, and expect it to function as well as the day you purchased it. 

You can pick up your Tourbox Photo and Video Editing Controller from Ikan for just $170 today. 

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Use These Photoshop Hacks to Create Better Photos

Use These Photoshop Hacks to Create Better Photos

photo byandresr via iStock

Melbourne photographer and filmmaker Tom Noske recently did a video for Canon Australia outlining his best Photoshop hacks. You can view this video below. 

It’s legitimately one of the best Photoshop tutorials I’ve ever watched and after seeing it, I knew I had to write an article here for all of you so that you can try out these Photoshop hacks for yourself. The reason why it was so good is that every tip he gives is incredibly simple, so even photographers who have never used Photoshop before can give them a try. 

I hope that you get as much out of this video as I did. Let’s get started.

Composition Hacking

composition hacking before

The original image before composition hacking. 

Noske is a freelance photographer/videographer and he specializes in adventure photography, which means that there are a ton of moments where he has just seconds to get the picture of a lifetime. 

The example he used was when he took a hot air balloon ride over the sand dunes in Dubai. Some of the images he captured didn’t feel as magnificent as the sand dunes themselves were. While camera technology has come a long way, there are definitely moments that cameras still aren’t able to fully capture.

In moments like these, Noske uses something he calls composition hacking. 

composition hacking after

The same image after composition hacking. Notice how the mountains are now more pronounced in the shot.

Composition hacking is one of the easier Photoshop hacks on this list. After placing your image in Photoshop, you’ll select the marquee tool before choosing the part of your image that you would want to emphasize. 

Before writing this article I actually tried out all of these Photoshop tricks for myself. For my composition hack, I took a photo of the Ko’olau mountain range on Oahu. I wanted to emphasize the mountains, which never quite translate all of their beauty to the camera.

After picking this part of your shot, hit Command C, hold Shift, and then use your mouse to stretch your image. That’s it!

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Gradient Tool

gradient tool before

The original image before using the gradient tool to replace the sky. 

If you’ve worked with Photoshop for any extended amount of time, then you’ve surely used the gradient tool before and you may be wondering why this is showing up on this list of photo editing hacks...

Here’s why. It has a hidden use. Noske defined it as the “one click sky replacement tool.” If you have a wonderful image of a landscape, but you feel the shot of the sky really doesn’t do it justice, you can use the gradient tool to enhance the sky portion of your image with another image you’ve taken where the sky was much prettier.

gradient tool after

The same image after using the gradient tool.

If you’ve seen somebody doing a Photoshop hacks video before where their sky replacement went horribly, this is pretty much the exact opposite of that. I think that Noske’s Photoshop tips and tricks always lead to gorgeous, realistic photos because wherever possible he doesn’t paint in his images, but rather replaces portions of them with better ones. 

So, for this trick, you’ll get the good sky image and put it on a layer below the image that you’re working on. Then, add a layer mask to your image. Select the gradient tool, hold Shift, and drag all the way from the top of your image down to the horizon. 

The best Photoshop hacks are the ones that seem too simple to be true, and you really have to watch Noske’s video to see just how pretty the images he creates with this trick turn out. 

Selective Color

selective color before

The original image before using selective color. 

You can’t create a Photoshop tips video without talking about color adjustment...

Noske’s third and final Photoshop hack is for photographers who want to slightly adjust the color in their images.

In order to use this hack, you should go to your adjustment layers and click selective color. Then a slider will pop up featuring all of your basic colors. You can then choose which color you would like to change and play with the slider to figure out what your image would look like. 

selective color after

The same image after using selective color.

Noske says that he uses the selective color tool for all of his portraits, because you can also select your subject with your brush, which prevents them from being affected by the changes you’re making with the selective color tool. 

Now, Noske’s Photoshop hacks 2020 video was short and sweet, which means you have absolutely no excuse for not trying them on some of your old images right now. Good luck and let us know how it goes! 

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Why You Need a Curved Monitor for Photo Editing

Why You Need a Curved Monitor for Photo Editing

We see the world naturally with our own eyes in 3D with automatic exposure control, automatic color correction, and a centrally focused panoramic wide view with the center point-of-view being sharpest. Using curved monitors for photo editing and video editing is the closest to this type of immersive view, bringing us several benefits.

Let’s look at the benefits of curved monitors for photo editing. I’ll also show what changes I’ve made to my own editing studio for both photos and video.

Immersive Viewing

Immersive viewing is one of the top benefits of curved monitors for photo editing. Immersive viewing means that the view from the monitor is closer to real life vision than using a flat screen monitor. 

A curved monitor makes you feel like you are a part of the scene, since it mimics the way you see in real life. We see in 3D, not 2D, so a curved monitor  will be a closer approximation to a natural view of an actual scene.

Less Eye Strain

Using larger screens for editing is a great idea, but with very wide field monitors that are flat screens, we tend to lose edge sharpness. With smaller monitors this isn’t a huge issue, but with very large, wide field monitors, we end up introducing a little bit of eye strain because the corners and edges are viewed from an awkward angle.

Any amount of eye strain will build up after a long editing session, causing headaches and poor focus. Many times when I start editing, I end up at my workstation for several hours, so any little bit of eye strain builds up, becoming a problem. 

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Less Distortion

Since the screen of a curved monitor is slightly curved, the edges are actually closer to our eyes and the view is from a more comfortable angle. This allows us to see the entire image or video footage more clearly which means we can more accurately judge what our editing is accomplishing.

Ultra Wide View

An ultra wide view, provided we can comfortably see it, is preferred for both video and photo editing. One reason for my own workflow is that I can tile programs on the screen, in other words, I can view two or three actions and windows at once instead of having to click through for each different view. 

An ultra wide view also means that you don’t have to minimize any view of an image or video footage in order to see it all at once.

My Editing Studio Upgrade

I have recently made a major upgrade to my own editing workspace which I use for editing both video footage and photographic images. I decided to use a two monitor setup for an incredibly immersive view and the ability to have every program I need open at the same time. These are the images I’ve been showing in this article.  

For the main screen, I went with the ViewSonic VP3881 curved monitor. It’s a 38 inch wide screen with superb sharpness and color fidelity. The smaller monitor up top is the ViewSonic VP3481 34 inch curved monitor. 

If you decide you want to use one monitor in addition to your laptop or existing desktop monitor, I would recommend getting the largest you can comfortably fit and afford. Though the 38 inch is only 4 inches of screen difference, the physical size of it compared to the 34 inch curved monitor is fairly significant. 

The reasons I chose ViewSonic for my editing studio upgrade with curved monitors are their great price, the extremely high resolution they have, and the excellent color rendition they have with the ability to show 4.39 trillion colors. 

Whatever you choose for your own editing studio upgrade, using high quality ultra wide curved monitors for photo editing will change how you edit and will increase your enjoyment of the editing process. 

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