Some of you might ask, why don’t photographers give their clients all of the RAW files.  First, let’s define what RAW is.  RAW is a type of image file format that contains minimally processed data.  It is called “raw” because it is the pure, unaltered data that has not been processed.
Unlike other image file formats, such as JPEG or PNG, which are already processed and compressed, RAW files allow for more flexibility and control in post-processing. With a RAW file, photographers can adjust the white balance, exposure, and other settings to achieve the desired look for their images without losing detail or introducing artifacts.
However, because RAW files contain uncompressed data, they tend to be much larger in size than other image file formats, which can lead to larger storage requirements. Additionally, RAW files require specialized software to process and convert them into a more accessible image format, such as JPEG or PNG.

So, here are a few reasons that photographers might not give their clients all of the RAW files.

1. Copyright - Having the RAW files might help prove ownership. By not delivering the RAW files, photographers can protect their intellectual property and ensure that their work is not used without permission or compensation.

2. Creative Control - RAW files give photographers greater control over the final image, allowing them to make adjustments to color balance, exposure, and other variables. By delivering only the edited JPEG files, photographers can maintain control over the final look of their work.

3. Quality Control - RAW files are unprocessed and may contain some errors or unflattering shots that the photographer may not want to be associated with their work. By only delivering edited JPEG files, photographers can ensure that they are delivering only their best work.

Capturing a perfect portrait with a camera is only half the battle. The other half is the post-processing, which can make or break the final product. Let’s delve into my portrait photography editing process and how I use both Adobe Lightroom and Adobe Photoshop.

Adobe Lightroom is the go-to software for many photographers when it comes to managing and editing their photos.  Lightroom offers a range of tools to help you enhance your images, from basic adjustments to more advanced techniques like selective adjustments, color grading, and noise reduction.

The first step in my editing process is to import the raw images into Lightroom.  After that, I typically like selecting the best images I shot with the client.  Then, I start editing the few best photos we chose.

I like to start doing some basic adjustments like exposure, contrast, and white balance in Lightroom.  Then, I move on to more advanced adjustments, like skin smoothing, color correction, and sharpening. Lightroom also offers selective adjustments, which allows me to adjust specific areas of the image, like the eyes, lips, or hair.

Oftentimes, once the basic edits are done in Lightroom, I will move on to Photoshop for more advanced retouching. Photoshop offers a wide range of tools and techniques for retouching portraits, including skin smoothing and blemish removal.

The first step in Photoshop is to create a new layer and use the healing brush tool to remove any imperfections like acne, wrinkles, or blemishes.  If needed, I will then use the clone stamp tool to remove any distracting elements in the background.

In conclusion, my editing process using Adobe Lightroom and Adobe Photoshop can be complex and time-consuming process that requires skill, patience, and attention to detail. But with the tools and techniques I use, we will take your portrait and turn it into a stunning work of art.

Contact me when you are ready to schedule your portrait photography session.

As a photographer, I have had the pleasure of capturing some of the most stunning moments between couples. Whether it’s an engagement or simply a couple in love, there’s something magical about photographing them during sunset.

Sunset is a time of day when the light is warm and soft creating a romantic backdrop
for couples photography. The golden hour, as it’s known, occurs just before
sunset, and is the perfect time to capture breathtaking photos of couples.

Another advantage of photographing couples at sunset is that the environment is typically more relaxed and intimate. During this time, the hustle and bustle of the day has passed, and the couple can simply focus on each other, making it the perfect time to capture those intimate moments of connection and affection. The calm and tranquil ambiance also helps couples to feel more at ease, resulting in more natural and authentic expressions.

Above is a photo I took just after a couple got engaged.  I love the backdrop of the ocean and the warm colors and how it brings a sense of joy for the new beginnings to come.  Add a ring, a bottle of champagne and the promise of a new future and you won’t be disappointed with the sunset photos we take.

If you’re planning a couples photography session, consider scheduling it during sunset to take advantage of this beautiful time of day.  Contact me to schedule a time to shoot.