Retouching enhances your photos significantly. Here’s a concise guide using Lightroom’s “Academia” settings.
Key Retouching Parameters
- Light:
- Exposure (-0.34): Darkens image.
- Contrast (+15): Adds depth.
- Highlights (-33): Lowers highlights.
- Shadows (+35): Reveals details.
- Whites (-25): Softens whites.
- Blacks (-25): Deepens blacks.
- Color:
- Temperature (+10): Adds warmth.
- Vibrance (+10): Boosts muted colors.
- Saturation (-8): Reduces intensity.
- Color Hues and Saturation:
- Red (Hue: +11, Saturation: -24)
- Orange (Hue: +12, Saturation: -13)
- Green (Hue: +15, Saturation: -10)
- Blue (Hue: +13, Saturation: -18)
- Effects:
- Clarity (+15): Enhances texture.
- Vignette (-23): Darkens edges.
- Midpoint (44): Adjusts vignette area.
- Noise Reduction (19): Cleans image.
- Details:
- Highlights (8): Lifts highlights.
- Sharpening (9): Adds clarity.
- Contrast (7): Defines image.
Editing Tools
- Photoshop: Detailed retouching.
- Lightroom: Global adjustments.
- VSCO: Quick mobile edits.
- Snapseed: Free and powerful.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Import and Organize: Import and organize photos.
- Basic Adjustments: Set exposure (-0.34), contrast (+15), highlights (-33), shadows (+35), whites (-25), blacks (-25).
- Color Adjustments: Adjust temperature (+10), vibrance (+10), saturation (-8).
- Hue and Saturation: Fine-tune red, orange, green, and blue.
- Effects: Set clarity (+15), vignette (-23), midpoint (44), noise reduction (19).
- Details: Adjust highlights (8), sharpening (9), contrast (7).
- Fine-Tuning: Ensure balance and cohesiveness.
Common Mistakes
- Over-Editing: Keep it natural.
- Ignoring Background: Complement the subject.
- Inconsistent Style: Maintain consistency.
Professional Tips
- Less is More: Subtle adjustments.
- Know Your Tools: Familiarize with software.
- Practice: Experiment and refine skills.
Showcase Your Work
- Social Media: Share on Instagram, Pinterest.
- Portfolio: Create an online showcase.
- Prints: Display physical prints.
Retouching transforms your photos. Use key parameters and tools for stunning results. Keep edits subtle and consistent. Happy editing!
