Digital Image Editing
Digital image editing can transform a mundane shot into something spectacular. On the other hand, knowing when enough image editing has been applied is almost as essential as knowing how to perform the editing in the first place.
What is Image Editing?
With today’s technology, shooting a photo with a modern DSLR is only half of the digital photography process. You do have the option of leaving your photos untouched once you’ve captured them on your camera, but as your photographic skills develop, chances are that you would like to start exploring the visually limitless world of image editing. Not only can it bring out the best in so-so shots, it is also possible to create stunning effects and imagery in the digital darkroom not possible in reality.
So what is image editing? It refers to the digital manipulation of images through specially designed software programs. The alterations and manipulations applied include corrective functions, retouching, style effects, object removal, colour manipulation, and changes in sharpness and contrast to name a few.
It’s always better to get your image as good as possible in the field, but sometimes there are unforeseen factors that come into play that you have no control over. These may include challenging lighting conditions, image noise, and sensor dust – all easily rectified in post-processing, but with the potential of ruining an image if not addressed.
That said, there are still many traditionalists around who believe that a photograph is taken by a camera and nothing else. You can read more about the ethics of
digital image manipulation
in our digital darkroom pages. In the end it comes down to a simple choice as to whether you use image editing or not.
Image Editing Tips
• Some image editing programs are free but the more complex ones can be quite expensive. If you’re just starting out, go with a free program to test the waters. There’s no use in paying hundreds or even thousands of dollars for software if you decide image editing is not for you.
• Understand that image editing is not for the faint of heart. Keep in mind what you want do to an image before getting carried away and losing track of time.
If you found inspiration on our image editing page, feel free to browse the following pages too:
Related Pages
* History of Digital Photography
* Image Editing Basics
* Image Editing Programs
* Free Image Editing Software
* Digital Workflow
* Digital Photography Tips
* Digital Photography Glossary
* Photography as an Art Form
Hope you enjoyed our digital image editing tips!
(From Digital Image Editing back to Basic Photography Tips Home Page)
Read, reflect and be inspired. If you find something of value on our image editing page, enjoy its gifts and please pass it on to your friends.
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