The Basic Principles Of Editing

While my goal is to always get a great image straight out of camera, editing is a huge way to add my own creative touch and enhance the photo.

Everyone has different styles in editing, but there are a few streamlined principles I believe everyone should apply. If you want to see specifically how I edit in Lightroom (without presets) and learn more about the software, check out this video.

1. Take It Photo-By-Photo

   I love presets as much as the next photographer, but if your typical edit doesn't work on a particular image or set of images, try something new! It's much better practice to edit each individual photo the best you can, even if that means not using your favorite preset or trying something new.

   Every photo has its own lighting, its own colors, its own story. Forcing the same edit onto all of them is doing your work a disservice. Some of my favorite images are ones where I had to abandon my go-to edit completely and just ask, "what does this photo actually need?" It takes a little more time, but the difference between a good edit and a great one is usually that extra bit of attention. Your presets are a starting point, not a rulebook.

   
   

2. Honesty Matters

   As photographers, we document moments the way they are. Of course, editing is a great tool, but it shouldn't overtake your photos. When people see my photos, I want them to see something real. Especially in an age of AI generated content and fake photos everywhere you look, I deeply value authenticity. Editing should enhance what was already beautiful about the moment, not create a moment that wasn't there.

   
   

3. Allow Your Creativity To Shine

   I know this feels like a step away from "Honesty Matters" but like most things in life, there's a healthy balance. Photography is an art, and adding your own creative touch is one of the most fun parts! Find ways to make your photos uniquely yours. Personally, I prefer vibrant and warm images with highlights that pop. Others prefer a more dark and moody look, while some go for the light and airy style.

4. Dive In & Don't Be Afraid To "Fail"

   The number one thing that has helped my editing process is just getting into Lightroom, trying over and over again, and getting better every day. You'd be amazed at how much consistency can do for you! Don't forget to look at other photographer's editing styles for inspiration, but not comparison. See what you like and what you're drawn to, but don't feel like you have to mimic someone else's style completely.

Lightroom (or any other photo editing softward) can take a while to learn, but will completely transform your photos if you give it the chance. Make sure you watch this video if you want to see more about Lightroom adjustments and my own personal editing style.