Retouching your golden hour photos can make them truly shine. Here’s a brief guide using Lightroom settings.

Key Retouching Parameters

• Exposure (+0.75): Brightens the image.
• Contrast (+10): Adds depth.
• Highlights (-80): Reduces overexposure.
• Shadows (+30): Reveals details.
• Whites (-5): Softens whites.
• Blacks (-40): Deepens blacks.

Color Adjustments

• Temperature (+10): Adds warmth.
• Tint (+5): Balances color.
• Vibrance (+25): Boosts muted colors.
• Saturation (+10): Increases color intensity.

Color Hues and Saturation

• Red: (H: -25, S: +5, L: +10)
• Orange: (H: +20, S: +5, L: -10)
• Yellow: (H: -55, S: +20, L: -10)
• Green: (H: -100, S: -50, L: +30)
• Light Blue: (H: +20, S: 0, L: -15)
• Blue: (H: -20, S: -40, L: -50)
• Purple: (H: 0, S: -50, L: 0)
• Pink: (H: 0, S: -50, L: 0)

Effects

• Texture (-10): Softens the look.
• Clarity (+10): Enhances mid-tone contrast.
• Dehaze (+10): Reduces haze for clearer images.

Editing Tools

• Photoshop: For detailed retouching.
• Lightroom: For global adjustments.
• VSCO: Quick mobile edits.
• Snapseed: Free and powerful.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Import and Organize: Import and organize photos.
2. Basic Adjustments: Set exposure (+0.75), contrast (+10), highlights (-80), shadows (+30), whites (-5), blacks (-40).
3. Color Adjustments: Adjust temperature (+10), tint (+5), vibrance (+25), saturation (+10).
4. Hue and Saturation: Fine-tune red, orange, yellow, green, light blue, blue, purple, and pink.
5. Effects: Apply texture (-10), clarity (+10), dehaze (+10).
6. Fine-Tuning: Ensure all elements are balanced.

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 and Pinterest.
• Portfolio: Create an online showcase.
• Prints: Display physical prints.

Retouching enhances your golden hour photos. Use these settings for stunning results. Keep edits subtle and consistent. Happy editing!