Think less, post more

Wow, where did the week go? It’s been a busy one! The website is back up and running, with a totally new look. I’ve already booked my first session from it, as well, which is really amazing. I am also finalizing plans for where the studio will be for the next year — as soon as something’s definite, I’ll post some pictures and more info. I had a great shoot on Monday night, and did delivery on Thursday evening — she was really happy with the photos for her boyfriend back home. Maybe if I ask nicely she will let me post an example this weekend! Speaking of the weekend… the forecast is calling for massive amounts of snow. Eight to eleven inches, to be specific. I’ll be holing up with my computer and hot beverages and books… and if I can find the motivation I’ll start packing boxes for the big move!

Now, on to the real reason why I’m posting today… It’s Fix It Friday over at I Heart Faces! Their selection for today’s photo is just perfect, considering the forecast! Here’s the original image (note: not mine, but used with permission):

Not a bad one at all. I love high-key images like this. However, it just needs a bit of a boost…

There! Now it’s got that Liz style to it. Wanna know what I did? Well, I’m using Lightroom, my favorite image editing program. I played with the yellow hues to make her hair brighter and her coat a little less drab. I adjusted the following sliders:

Exposure +8
Blacks +20
Brightness -34
Contrast -25

I also painted a layer (with the adjustment brush) of higher exposure over her hair and face, at +1.43. I also added some clarity to her hair and certain facial features (my preferences are lashes and lips) at 100%. Little Mr. Snowman got a little lower exposure, so you would see his details, and the gloves got a little extra clarity. Cropped it square, and there you go! Got any further questions? Feel free to ask! Head on over to I Heart Faces, grab the file, and try it in your own favorite editing program — I’d love to see what YOU would do to make this photo even better!

Now, did the image NEED all of these little touches? Nope! But, making edits like this is what defines my style. I try to look at every photo I take and see the possibilities. It’s very likely that the photo, from my camera, would have looked very similar to the original. The most important part of this photo is the girl’s expression, as well as the subject of her gaze.

Break out those boots and enjoy the snow this weekend, Carolinians! Hopefully I’ll have some snow photos of my own to post at some point!

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