7 Editing SKILLS you should learn during lockdown | Lightroom and Photoshop

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will explore seven essential editing skills that can enhance your photography using Lightroom and Photoshop. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your skills during lockdown, these techniques will help improve your photos significantly.

Step 1: Master Basic Adjustments

• Exposure: Adjust the overall brightness of your image. Use the slider to find the right balance.
• Contrast: Increase the difference between light and dark areas to add depth.
• Highlights and Shadows: Fine-tune the details in bright and dark areas. Bring down highlights to recover details and lift shadows for more clarity.

Step 2: Use the Tone Curve

• Access the Tone Curve Panel: In Lightroom, find the Tone Curve panel in the Develop module.
• Adjust the Curve: Create a slight "S" shape for contrast.
  • Drag the bottom left corner up for shadows.
  • Drag the top right corner down for highlights.
• Practical Tip: Use a soft touch; small adjustments can lead to significant changes.

Step 3: Split Toning

• Open Split Toning Panel: In Lightroom, locate the Split Toning panel.
• Adjust Highlights and Shadows:
  • Choose a color for highlights and adjust the saturation.
  • Do the same for shadows to create a stylistic color effect.
• Common Pitfall: Avoid over-saturation, which can make images look unnatural.

Step 4: Use the Dehaze Tool

• Find the Dehaze Tool: Located in the Basic panel in Lightroom.
• Apply Dehaze: Slide to the right to reduce haze and enhance clarity.
• Adjust Accordingly: If the image becomes too contrasty, you can reduce the contrast or adjust exposure afterward.

Step 5: Focus Stacking

• Capture Multiple Shots: Take several photos at different focal points.
• Merge Images: In Photoshop, go to File > Automate > Photomerge to combine them.
• Practical Application: Great for landscape photography where you want everything in focus.

Step 6: Working with Layers in Photoshop

• Open an Image: Start by opening your photo in Photoshop.
• Create New Layers: Use layers for non-destructive editing.
  • Right-click on the background layer and select 'Duplicate Layer.'
• Adjustment Layers: Use adjustment layers like Curves or Levels to modify colors without altering the original photo.

Step 7: Add Creative Effects

• Texturizing Images: Import a texture file and set its blending mode (e.g., Overlay) to enhance depth.
• Use Filters: Explore filters in Photoshop for stylistic changes, such as blurring backgrounds or sharpening details.
• Final Touches: Always zoom in and out to check the overall impact of your edits.

Conclusion

By mastering these seven editing skills in Lightroom and Photoshop, you can significantly elevate your photography. Start with basic adjustments and gradually incorporate more advanced techniques like focus stacking and using layers. Experiment with these skills and find your unique style. Happy editing!