Let’s talk about a trend in photography that’s causing more confusion than clarity—over-relying on presets and calling it “editing.” It’s time to get honest about what it really means to edit a photo and why shortcuts like presets can sometimes diminish the quality of our work.
Presets Are Just a Starting Point
First off, let’s set the record straight: a preset is not a magic wand that instantly transforms an image into a masterpiece. Applying a preset and passing it off as an edited photo is misleading to clients. They deserve to understand what goes into their images, and simply relying on a preset as the final touch is not only lazy; it can be an insult to the artistry of photography.
Real editing goes far beyond a one-click adjustment. It requires a deep understanding of various techniques that can truly transform an image. Techniques like dodge and burn, frequency separation, and color grading are essential for crafting a cohesive and engaging final product. These skills allow you to manipulate light and shadow, smooth skin without losing texture, and create a harmonious color palette that enhances the photo’s mood.
The Problem with Shoot-and-Burn Photography
The rise of presets is often linked to shoot-and-burn photographers who churn out dozens of images with minimal effort. While this approach can deliver a high volume of photos, the quality is often questionable. Sure, you might get 40+ images from a single session, but if they’re all nearly identical, what’s the point? Clients expect variety and artistry, not a barrage of similar shots.
While not every shoot-and-burn photographer operates this way, those who do can damage their reputation and that of the industry. Some photographers offer a large number of images but charge premium prices because they understand the value of quality over quantity. They take the time to edit each photo thoughtfully, ensuring every one meets a high standard that clients appreciate.
The Scam of Selling Presets
Let’s address the photographers who sell presets. Promoting your presets as the magic solution to photography success is disingenuous. Yes, they might save time, but they don’t teach the essential skills needed to elevate your work. Selling presets as the end-all solution is not only misleading but also keeps fellow photographers from learning how to truly edit their photos.
We need to break the cycle of passing off presets as the ultimate answer. Instead of profiting from shortcuts, let’s invest in teaching real editing techniques.
Honesty and Clarity in Client Communication
When communicating with clients, transparency is key. If you tell clients they’re receiving “edited” photos, it can diminish the perceived quality of your work. While a preset can technically alter an image, it’s not the same as a handcrafted, curated edit. It’s crucial to set clear expectations. Rather than saying they received fully edited photos, consider framing it differently. This enhances their understanding and elevates the perceived value of your work.
AI and Evolving Editing Efficiency
AI technology is rapidly changing the landscape of photography editing. Unlike static presets in programs like Lightroom, AI editing programs analyze each photo and make adjustments based on its unique characteristics. This means that when AI applies its adjustments, it can optimize the image without compromising the photographer’s vision.
Using AI-driven editing tools not only allows for greater efficiency but also ensures that the final product maintains high quality. The program assesses elements like exposure, color balance, and texture, and applies the necessary adjustments more intelligently than a preset ever could. This kind of nuanced editing can result in images that look polished and thoughtfully crafted, all while saving you time.
When using AI tools, you don’t have to disclose every detail to your clients, but being honest about your process is essential. Clients appreciate transparency and are more likely to value your work when they understand the effort and skill involved.
Master the Art of Real Editing
If you’re ready to move beyond shortcuts and master the art of editing, I’m here to help. Sign up for a workshop where I’ll guide you through my workflow, showing you how simple and efficient editing can be without sacrificing quality. Learn to create actions, leverage AI tools effectively, and apply presets as enhancements rather than replacements for your skills.
Let’s elevate our work and provide clients with the quality they deserve. It’s time to embrace real editing and showcase what true photography can achieve.
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