IMAGE CAPTURE, Post-Processing, AND EditinG

Every view is captured as a RAW digital file using at least three camera settings: once at ideal exposure settings, again underexposing to record detail in the highlights, and once more overexposing to capture detail in the shadows. These different exposures may then be combined during post-processing to obtain a high dynamic range in the final images, thus creating a more realistic rendering of the subject.

Post-Processing involves adjusting the photographic properties of an image file. This includes color balance, tonal values, attention to highlight and shadow detail, fine-tuning of verticals, and cropping. Every image is carefully post-processed to bring out the optimum balance of photographic possibilities.

Editing goes one step further by eliminating content such as debris, signage, utility poles, vents, electrical cables, outlets, and switches. Editing may also add elements not in the original view or make creative changes to image content.

The following examples illustrate some of the differences between post-processing and editing:

Here’s an example of an unprocessed RAW file straight from the camera.

Here’s an example of an unprocessed RAW file straight from the camera.

RAW IMAGE FILES

This shot was made with the camera mounted atop a 25 foot mast (shadow in the foreground) in late afternoon in order to benefit from direct sunlight on the building facade. However, the shadows of utility lines and poles, as well as power lines above the distant horizon, a wind-induced tilt to the camera, and the sour color tones typical of a fresh RAW image make this image unacceptable in its current state.

 
 
This is a POST-PROCESSED version of the above RAW image.

This is a POST-PROCESSED version of the above RAW image.

POST-PROCESSED IMAGE FILES

This post-processed version of the above RAW image has been adjusted for white-balance, exposure value, highlight and shadow detail, tonal values, and sharpness. The horizon and verticals have been corrected, and the image has been slightly cropped. Many times post-processed images are ready for use without additional editing. At other times, such as with this image, editing is required to make the image acceptable to both the photographer and the client.

 
 
 
 
The POST-PROCESSED image has now been EDITED and formatted as a JPEG file.

The POST-PROCESSED image has now been EDITED and formatted as a JPEG file.

EDITED IMAGE FILES

The final edited version of this image has had the shadows of the utility cables and poles eliminated, the asphalt cleaned and darkened, parking lines and curbs enhanced, sidewalks cleared of debris, power lines in the distance eliminated, and the image further cropped. Such changes have now resulted in a nicely balanced image suitable for the client's portfolio.