Light. It is the one essential element to every photograph. Light can be broad, directional, universal, natural or artificial. When it is harnessed and captured thoughtfully and intentionally, it can be the star of the photograph. Today guest blogger, Emma Wood of Emma Wood Photography, shares a photo editing blueprint, explaining how to use Michelle Kane Photoshop actions to optimize light and color tone to create a stunningly dramatic photo. Emma’s way of lighting the image with the light coming directionally from above to highlight the hair and illuminate the balloon, is masterfully set off by placing her subject against a solid, dark background. This setup showcases the light and the subject in an ethereal and extraordinary manner. This photo wouldn’t have had the same impact had she photographed the subject against a lighter background. Emma enhanced the light and drama in post processing by further darkening the background and creating warm earthy tones for mood and ambience. Her decision to flip the image was one that most would not consider, but I think was smart and shows her keen attention to detail.
Photo Editing Blueprint.
Action Collections Guide: HS = HeART & Soul CH= Creative HeART BB = Botanical Blends
In Photoshop.
1. Dull to Dazzling 40% opacity, masked off skin and clothes (Overall contrast boost, sharpening, defining.) HS
2. Sumptuous Smolder 40% opacity, masked off skin and clothes (Deep, rich, creamy intensified color.) CH
Photographer: Emma Wood Photography—Emma Wood
I’m a Nikon girl and a lover of natural light and film inspired photography. Moody and earthy are both words that have been used to describe my work. My love for black and white images stems back to my childhood where I must have watched every black and white movie ever made. My favorite lens is my 85mm but I’m quite partial to my Lensbaby as well.
I currently work as a Mentor at ClickinMoms, which I love. I have seven crazy kids whom I chase around with my camera all day… and for the most part, they put up with it!
I adore Michelle’s actions and I’ve had them for quite a while now. They are so useful not only for enhancing an image, but I also love the workflow actions. They’re truly amazing for speeding up your workflow and making things simple.
