Rookie Mistakes of Photo Editing

Human beings tend to capture memories in whichever way possible so that they can cherish them later in their lives. In ancient times, capturing memories went only as far as cave paintings or preserving the daily routine in the form of written documents. Eventually, this paved the way for paintings and other pictorial representations of life. However, the entire phenomenon of photography came in much later. From the world’s first photograph taken somewhere in the early 1800s to the latest lightroom presets for instagram, photographic techniques have evolved in ways unimaginable. The modern world calls for contemporary photography and editing techniques so that our Instagram and Facebook never have a dull moment.  However, photo editing requires patience and a good knowledge of the art, lest the entire process of editing could turn into a nightmare.

Given below are some of the rookie mistakes that one needs to avoid while editing a photograph:

The less you edit, the better it is

Over-excitement about editing a photograph can lead to one using more edits than required. You will only ruin the natural beauty of a photograph if you try to use way too many editing techniques and filters in a photograph. While editing a photograph, it is essential that you understand the tone and quality of it and use edits accordingly. Thus, while editing a photograph, it is imperative that you follow the “less is more” adage.

Avoid over saturation

Saturation of a photo brings out the intensity of the colors and can change the overall look of the photo. However, you do not want to saturate your photo to the extent that the colors look abnormally bright. Over saturation can be the death of a photo and is not pleasing to the eyes. Know how much saturation would be enough to set the tone of your photo right and do not overdo it.

Avoid filling more light to your photo

While it is essential that your photograph is clear and not too dark, over brightening of a photo can lead to it looking artificial and fake. Too much light also takes away the quality of a photo, and as a result, the photograph looks too white. You want your photograph to be crisp and over brightening of a photograph can work against achieving this element. Fill light only to the extent that all the subjects in the photograph are clear and visible. Thus, avoid setting the brightness slider of your photo editing software way too high.

Over smoothening of skin is a big NO

It is natural to want a photograph where you look like a model of a fashion magazine; however, remember that your flaws are what make you human. Do not go for excessive smoothening of skin in an attempt to look flawless in a photograph. Over smoothening of skin looks unreal and know that this trick will not fool your audience. People always understand if a photograph has been heavily edited.  Therefore, when applying skin smoothening edits, do so in moderation.

So now that you are aware of the most common photo editing mistakes, avoid them at all costs and take over your social media by feeling comfortable in your own skin.