POST-PRODUCTION IN 4 STEPS

After you’re done with an image, it might lack a few characteristics that bring all of the elements together. In this image for example, there is a lack of contrast, no clear focal point, no hierarchy of the elements and no overall depth. By following these simple steps, we will adjust all of these issues.

4 EASY STEPS:

01 | Cyanotype.

Command: CTRL+U > Presets > Cyanotype. Layer blend mode: Overlay Opacity: 40%

During this step, we will be adjusting the overall depth and contrast of the image, as well as adding a cohesive cyan tone over all of the elements. You can choose for the other presets as well depending on what you’re trying to achieve.

02 | Black & White.

Command: CTRL+U > Saturation. Layer blend mode: Overlay Opacity: 40%

This is similar to step 01. By applying a black&white overlay to the image, we neutralize some of the colors and increase the contrast once again. Find a % that works for your image.

PRO TIP: Be careful not to overexpose the highlights and lose some of the softer details.

03 | Camera RAW.

Command: Filter > Camera Raw Filter.

This is the step where you adjust the color temperature to give your image the right mood, and highlight the important elements. For this image, I changed the temperature to +20, to bring out the yellow tones, and the tint to +20 as well, which will neutralize the green tones. This is also a good opportunity to adjust the overall highlights and shadows. I have also lowered the texture to -16 to help blend all of the element’s edges.

04 | Dodge & Burn.

With the dodge & burn tool, you can selectively lighten and darken specific areas of your image. Careful with this tool since it can overexposure or oversaturate your objects quickly. Adjust the exposure to not more than 8-10% and select only your highlights or midtones. This is the time to emphasize the image’s focal point. And voilà!

BEFORE

Download this image and follow the steps!

AFTER

For more, check out the LUIS BARRAGAN IN THE DESERT tutorial!

Any questions or suggestions? Leave a comment!

Tutorial by Stefani Fachini