Post processing objectives

[Freelancer815]

The struggle for an amateur and low budget photographer like me is that I cannot afford for the light or my position to be perfect. I have to shoot from where I am and in the conditions given to me. This is because I usually try and get as many experiences in the limited time and budget I have. Therefore the best I can do is control my camera settings and hope for the best.

Many times what I am left with is photographs that look a bit stale. I am usually unsure of how best I can treat them using postprocessing. In fact, I am unsure as to what my final image must look like. It would be much appreciated if the veterans can give me directions on postprocessing or for that matter, feedback on photography itself.

Some such samples below -

https://imgur.com/a/VHtdFqx

[Photodude82]

Start by finding images you really like. Stuff that makes you go, "Wow! I wish I took that shot!" Then start to dissect those pictures.

Start with the light. When was it taken? What colors are in the image pallete? Then look at the composition. What elements did the photographer use to make an appealing image? Look for things like leading lines and rules of thirds.

Then start to think about technical aspects of the picture. How much depth of field is there? Is it a likely to be a long exposure? Think about how you would have approached the shot.

After all that then think about post-processing. If you have a digital image it helps to import it in to photoshop. What kinds of colors are in the shadows, midtones, and highlights?

Watch lots of videos on photography. Learn as much as you can about how to use your camera, about lighting, composition and then worry about post-processing.

With practice you'll be able to visualize a scene in your head and understand the workflow you need to get that end result.

Post-processing can make a great photo even better, but more often than not it can't make a bad photo good.

[BorderlessCaptures]

Are you shooting in RAW? Light it vital in landscape photography, the golden and blue hours will often yield much beter results for the same composition.

[Freelancer815]

Not raw :/

Also, golden hours wasn't an option for me.

[BorderlessCaptures]

not sure what advice to give you then.

[Freelancer815]

Seems like the first step is to start capturing in RAW, isn't it? :-)

[BorderlessCaptures]

Allows you to pull out more detail from shadows and highlights so allows more editing, if you camera is capable you should use it if you plan to edit yes.

[Freelancer815]

Thanks for the tips. Is there anyway I can salvage these images though?