For me, editing and post-processing – especially working with raw files – are integral parts of the photography process.
When I’m out capturing images, I always aim to envision the final result. I consider the overall look, mood, and feel of the photograph I want to create, as well as the specific color adjustments that would best suit the scene.
This process is far from an exact science. In fact, it’s deeply intuitive, rooted in feelings and personal preferences. That’s why it’s so important for me to cultivate my own style and visual language.
I choose not to use other photographers’ presets, even though they’re widely available online, often for free. While applying a preset might produce an aesthetically pleasing image with just one click, it wouldn’t feel like an authentic expression of my vision.
Additionally, navigating the challenges of editing enhances my skills – not just at the computer, but also in the field. I’ve learned to anticipate and avoid mistakes, refine framing and composition, and make better use of light, all of which reduce the effort required during post-processing.
Over time, I’ve developed several variations of my own presets that I rely on daily. These get me about 90% of the way to my desired result, leaving only minor tweaks to fine-tune the image into the expression I want to achieve.