There are a number of software’s available that facilitate photo editing. Pictures can be enhanced with a multitude of effects to get the desired look.
There is a lot of room for experimentation and the features provided by these software’s make the possibilities limitless. Some the most commonly used techniques used while editing pictures are discussed below.
Multiple exposures
This is a technique where more than one image is blended on a single photograph. These pictures give the viewer a sense of movement and are not clearly defined images but mere impressions. The shape and color of the object being captured is retained but is slightly blurred. This can be attained by moving the camera between exposures. The degree of movement is proportional to how abstract the final picture turns out to be. This can be done using hand held cameras or even with software’s once the picture is taken.
Polarizer
The primary function of a polarizer is to minimize reflections and glares. This helps intensify the colors of your image. It is ideal for making skies appear more blue and taking pictures of the sun especially at a 90 degree angle.
Overlays
The concept behind an overlay is to blend two images together. This can be done by altering the opacity of one of the pictures. The degree to which one picture needs to be altered is subjective and can be adjusted to meet the photographer’s requirements.
Filters
The function of a filter is to alter the image before it gets recorded. The can be of different shapes and colors. Filters can be hand held in front of the lens or have metal frames that can be directly screwed onto the front of the lens. They are usually made from plastic or glass. Color filters usually absorb some of the light affecting the overall outcome of the image. Other than color, filters can serve to distort pictures in various ways like diffusing a sharp image for instance.
Flash
Flash is used as a source for light when there isn’t enough light available or when the photographer desires more light. The intensity of the flash can be altered to suit your specific needs. It is always important to take some test shots before using the flash, as in some cameras it needs to be manually adjusted.
High Dynamic Range (HDR)
Sometimes images have a wide range of contrast in them. Regular filters do not help in bringing out the bright and dark parts of the image. In such cases, it is best to create a high dynamic range. This will enable you to capture the whole dynamic range and bring out powerfully contrasted parts of photographs.
A combination of equipment and techniques contribute to the final image. There are a wide range of techniques a photographer can use while capturing a picture that will add effects. However, these can be done using software’s once the image has been taken. Using these software’s can be quite technical and complex, online tutors and induction packs help make it easier.
I used to use Lee filters with film cameras when I was building my portfolio. When digital came in I stopped using them and relied on photoshop. Might be time to dig them out again as you say they it alters the image before its captured, which gives a different effect than doing it later in photoshop
This will help in learning process of photography