10 Post-Processing Tips in Photography for Beginners
Post-processing is an essential part of photography, allowing you to enhance your images and bring your creative vision to life. Here’s 10 tips to help you bring out the best out of your photos.
Start with Basic Editing Software: As a beginner, it's best to start with user-friendly editing software like Adobe Lightroom, Capture One, or even free options like GIMP or Pixlr. For your phone consider Adobe Lightroom, Snapseed or VSCO. These programs and apps offer a wide range of tools and presets to enhance your images without overwhelming you with complex features.
Shoot in RAW: Shooting in RAW format gives you more flexibility during post-processing. RAW files contain more information and allow you to make adjustments to exposure, white balance, and other settings without degrading the image quality. Always shoot RAW if your camera supports it.
Adjust Exposure and Contrast: Begin your editing process by adjusting the exposure and contrast of your image. Use the exposure slider to brighten or darken the overall image, and the contrast slider to enhance the tonal range. Be careful not to overdo it—subtle adjustments can go a long way.
White Balance and Color Correction: Correcting white balance ensures accurate color representation in your images. Use the white balance tools in your editing software to adjust the temperature (warmth) and tint of your image. Experiment with different settings until you achieve the desired look.
Crop and Straighten: Sometimes, a slight adjustment to the composition can significantly improve an image. Use the cropping tool to remove distractions and create a better balance in your composition. Additionally, straighten any tilted horizons or lines to make your image appear more polished.
Enhance Details with Sharpening: Sharpening selectively enhances the details in your image. Use the sharpening tool in your editing software to add crispness to your subject. Be mindful not to oversharpen, as it can introduce artifacts and make the image appear unnatural.
Experiment with Presets: Presets are pre-defined settings that instantly apply a specific look or style to your image. They're a great way to explore different aesthetics and learn about the possibilities of post-processing. Start with the presets included in your editing software and adjust them to suit your taste.
Dodge and Burn: Dodge and burn are techniques used to selectively lighten (dodge) or darken (burn) specific areas of an image. These tools help create depth and add emphasis to certain elements. Experiment with dodging and burning to draw attention to your subject or add dimension to your photographs.
Noise Reduction: High ISO settings or low-light conditions can introduce noise in your images. Most editing software offers noise reduction tools to minimize or remove this unwanted graininess. Use these tools sparingly to retain image details while reducing noise.
Before and After: Always compare your edited image with the original to ensure you're achieving the desired results. Most editing software has a before-and-after view option, allowing you to see the changes you've made. This helps you make adjustments and fine-tune your edits.
Remember, post-processing is a creative process, and there are no strict rules. Develop your own editing style by experimenting, trying new techniques, and learning from other photographers. With time and practice, you'll develop a unique post-processing workflow that complements your photography.
If you want to see me edit some photos, you can check it out over here: How I EDIT and ENHANCE Photos on Mobile
