Capturing an image is only half the work. The other half is post-processing (editing, retouching, Photoshopping®) the image. However you prefer to call it, skilled retouching of an image can help to set apart an average photographer from a more experienced one. I always try to get the image right in-camera; however, there are always times when an image can be improved.

There are times when interrupting the scene will take from the moment. An image can greatly be improved when distracting elements are removed. Below, this groom was dressed and simply waiting for the festivities to begin. He found a simple solace in the college football game that was on. I thought it was a neat moment in that he looked so calm, cool and collected. (Thank you, Mom, for that phrase!)

I chose to remove the distractions from the hanger, the fan, and the branch from the floral arrangement which really could not be seen from my perspective. I also removed a bit of the harsh shadows by taking the edge of them. The removal of these distracting elements improves the story by taking away things that may draw your eye away from the groom. I think the image now tells a stronger story of a groom watching TV and waiting for the moment. If I had taken the time to physically remove the distracting elements before I took the photo, the moment would have been interrupted and lost.

In the image above, I removed the DJ in the background. (He’s right between the bride and groom.) I also brightened up the image and lightened the shadows to reveal details in the door behind them and offer a peek in the back room. Now, the bride and groom seem alone and lost in the moment of their first dance. They seem oblivious to anyone else in the room and now that the DJ is no longer visible, you can also believe that.

San Antonio Wedding Photographer

The images from my wedding and event photography don’t always receive as this much post-processing, but all images that will make the wedding album do. Sometimes the enhancements I make are subtle; sometimes they are high impact. My goal is always the same—to make the image better or tell a stronger story. If the post-processing will not achieve that, then it isn’t done. The thing to remember is that the camera will always tell lies. The key is creating an image that the eye will believe.

Until next time, be positive, happy, and healthy, and don’t forget to be photographed.

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I am a San Antonio-based wedding and senior photographer who started Ata-Girl Photography Co., LLC in 2010. As one of the up-and-coming San Antonio wedding photographers, I am also available to shoot in Austin, Houston and Dallas and the surrounding areas. I am also available for destination weddings worldwide. Ata-Girl Photography Co. offers an amazing wedding photography service that you won’t soon forget.  As a professional photographer, my sole purpose is to provide you the absolute best photography experience.

I am a professional photographer who enjoys documenting the important milestones and captivating moments in people’s lives. I firmly believe that the unique set of circumstances I have faced in life has prepared me to take a personal and genuine interest in my photography clients. When I’m not photographing a wedding, family or high school senior, I enjoy watching my daughter play softball, hiking, cycling, reading, and listening to Elvis!

The post, Before and After Photo Edits, first appeared on Ata-Girl Photography Co’s website and blog. Please feel free to comment here, or share this post with your friends via Facebook, Twitter or Pinterest. Please email me if you have any questions about this article or want to share a neat idea for a future blog post with me.