A question came through the comments on Karen & Levi’s recent wedding post on how I process my images… Two years ago I shared my editing workflow in this post, but over time my style has evolved and so has my workflow, if only slightly. Since then, I began using VSCO Film Presets on my images in Lightroom and I absolutely love the feel they give my photos. Now, I’m not a film photographer and I’m not trying to appear that way, but there is a quality to the presets that I think enhances my brand. What I’ve done is created my own preset using a VSCO preset as the base. My goals when it comes to editing is efficiency – no one wants to be stuck behind the computer editing all day! Or worse, night! – and consistent, natural looking images. Honestly, the VSCO preset collections contain so many great presets that I could go crazy with my options…and forfeit consistency. I’ve found and tweaked one that fits my style and I stick to it. Which also saves me time! The same preset is on file with my editing company of choice, The Album Design, where I outsource the bulk of my wedding editing, ensuring that perfect consistency. Here’s a photo from Karen and Levi’s wedding day. The image on the left is straight out of camera and looks a bit underexposed, but I’d rather that than a blown out wedding dress! Brought into Lightroom (as pictured below) and with my preset applied, you get the image on the right. It also received a little temperature boost, and exposure and shadow adjustments. All of that in a matter of seconds. One more, from Josh and Lindsay’s maternity shoot. The preset is applied, and a few small adjustments are made such as white balance and exposure. Any further photography related questions out there? Don’t hesitate to drop a note in the comments below or send me an email. Happy to help if I can! *Edited to add: I’ve been asked which exact VSCO preset I use. I can’t remember for certain, but I know it was in the first film pack, and one of the first presets of the set*
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