Step by step workflow

I was recently asked, to explain how an image is processed. There are numerous ways to finalize a photograph. Advantages being, you can create many different looks from the same image. Below, you will see an image taken a few weeks ago.

Looks rather plain. No special effects or rendering. Not a bad photograph, but lets see what can be done, in order to make it look more interesting.

With Adobe CS4, we start by adjusting the exposure and contrast. This can be done many ways through Photoshop. I find, using the levels, works best, allowing you to fine tune your exposure. Notice the trees tend to stand out on the second image.

Step three, we used a Photoshop plug-in. Plug-ins are similar to "Actions", meaning that they automatically preform a series of adjustments to your image. The only difference, is that they are preformed through a secondary program. This particular plug-in, brings out the detail. You will notice the water and trees have more detail, than the above image.

Plug-ins are a great addition to your work flow. My favorites include Onone Suites, Topaz Labs and Auto FX Software, to name a few.

I hope you find this interesting. The next time your viewing photographs, look closely, and see what effects they used. Feel free to contact us with any questions, or for classes in image workflow.