Intersections Between Language and Photography

Ante

Fore

Mykal: Before

Mykal: After

This set of before and after images is intended to represent editing abilities using CS4 and CS5 beta (by invitation from ADOBE via NAPP).

The content aware features in CS5 are remarkable, reducing time spent removing unwanted elements in a photograph as seen in the landscapes above. I’ve successfully removed entire trees from several of the waterfall shots.

CS4 was used on the images of Mykal to remove the facial scarring/imperfections seen in the before picture. Much of the technique I use in portrait editing was learned from independent study using the “Photoshop World Playbook” –particularly Katrin Eismann’s techniques,”Skin” by Lee Varis, and several copies of Photoshop User and Digital Photo Pro. I do recommend attending the Photoshop World Conference–extremely valuable learning opportunity!

Overall, I’ve achieved a solid skill set regarding portrait retouching. Still working through some issues surrounding candid, landscape (rural & urban), and street photography. Primary area of concern? Achieving correct exposure at the time of capture–specifically finding the element in the image that represents 18% grey when I can’t find my grey card (frequent occurrence). Nothing to do, but shoot until I have a solid understanding of correct metering without an additional (handheld) light meter.

Good source of info on metering:

http://www.cambridgeincolour.com/tutorials/camera-metering.htm

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