There is a lot more that goes into photography than just pressing the shutter. So many people think it is just that and anyone can take a great photo. I like to think there is a little more to it than that. I think one of the toughest things to learn with photography is metering and exposing correctly. Learning to read the light and finding great light is something that is challenging and something that takes a lot of trial and error to get it correct. I like to have complete control over my images so I shoot in full manual. I believe this is the only way (for me) to really get what I want out of my images. I am still working on all of this, it is a continual learning process. Photography is one of those things that you don’t just stop learning one day and have it mastered. It is forever changing and the trends are forever changing.
I also think editing is a big chunk of a photographers art. This is where you can really define your style. I like simplicity. I like a lot of color. I like warm images. That’s my style. I’m not much for textures or colorshifts, though I do experiment with both from time to time. Some photographers are really into them and do an amazing job but that’s just not me. I do minimal adjustments to my images besides these few things and I’m actually quite proud of that. I’ve gotten to where my exposures are pretty good and consistent SOOC (straight out of camera) and therefore I normally just have to do some minor adjustments in Lightroom.
This is a before and after. This image is one of my favorite images that I took this year. The light was perfect!
BEFORE – SOOC (straight out of camera):
AFTER – white balance adjustment, contrast boost, color punch, minor blemish removal and some cloning:
Another before and after. This is from the ‘chill session’ I went to with Rob & Lauren Photographers back in August. They are pros at “finding the light”. I really learned a lot from them. And most importantly I think I learned that less is more and I really found my editing style.
BEFORE – SOOC:
AFTER – white balance adjustment, contrast boost and a little brightening:
