11/17/2025
I know that this one will be controversial but one of the biggest complaints I get from my photography students, especially the ones that are on the intermediate level, is that even though they have improved their photography a lot, they don’t think that their photos look professional. Unfortunately I have to be the one to tell them that photography, like any other art, is talent and inspiration but also technique. And one of the most important techniques you will need to learn is how to post-process your photos.
But why am I saying that? Because as soon as you get out of the basic level and start publishing your hard work photos for your friends on Facebook or Instagram the only thing you will hear is “ Amazing”, “Gorgeous” and “ Incredible” making you think that not only you captured the spot or moment, but that your technique is flawless and don’t need any improvements. And this is where the risk is. We all need a critical eye to help us continue to improve everyday in everything we do, and photography is not different. But very few people in your circles will offer that and in most cases because of self affirmation people even feel offended if someone would offer them any help.
Over the years I have divided my work in techniques and artistic style decisions. Usually techniques are something you learn and apply and artistic styles are something that you decide to do. Do you saturate your photos? Do you apply a specific color grade? A lot of contrast? These are artistic decisions but other minor and major flaws are usually lack of technique.
So my recommendation to all my intermediate students is find someone that you admire and try to mimic that style and technique. Spend the time to learn the basics of that style and technique and some critique classes can help with that process. And when you finish your processing, come back to it after a few hours and take it with a critical eye before publishing. And if that person that you admire gives you some constructive feedback please don’t be mad at them. If they really care about you they just want to help you get even better.
