Post-Processing Rules

[rrrrrrr]

Hi all,

Although I may be wrong, I have the impression that even the most "pure" photo is to some extent post-processed. I decided to start learning a photo editing program in depth, but I'm still afraid that I won't be able to draw the line between what's good or a "must", what's enough and what's too much in terms of such operations. For example, is there a standard procedure to appreciate a photo - by a contest jury, for example - as regards the post-processing techniques? Any chance to find all this information gathered somewhere? Or maybe you already know this and you could share it with me and others?

Thank you,
Rrrrrrr

[Nicole]

For personal photos I think that you draw the line. Whether it's making substantial changes, making minor changes, or creating something that's more of digital artwork, that's up to you. My version of too much might be just right to someone else, and that's why it's art.

For photo contests, that's up to the contest judges and at least some will probably tell you what is and isn't allowed.

For new photography, the AP has a set of guidelines:

The content of a photograph must not be altered in PhotoShop or by any other means. No element should be digitally added to or subtracted from any photograph. The faces or identities of individuals must not be obscured by PhotoShop or any other editing tool. Only retouching or the use of the cloning tool to eliminate dust and scratches are acceptable.

Minor adjustments in PhotoShop are acceptable. These include cropping, dodging and burning, conversion into grayscale, and normal toning and color adjustments that should be limited to those minimally necessary for clear and accurate reproduction (analogous to the burning and dodging often used in darkroom processing of images) and that restore the authentic nature of the photograph. Changes in density, contrast, color and saturation levels that substantially alter the original scene are not acceptable. Backgrounds should not be digitally blurred or eliminated by burning down or by aggressive toning.

[rrrrrrr]

Hi Nicole,

I understand what you're saying. However, these are still general things, but what about some details, such as "it's preferable to define the black and white points in a BW photo, in order to have a full range of greys", a sort of "not-written" rules of post-processing, which you only find out by reading and reading and reading many articles, in forums, etc.? I'm studying photography by myself, and I believe there are many people out there looking for the same kind of answers.

[BCampbell]

Here's a post from the Reuters blog with some details about post processing. Might have some of the info you're looking for. This is a hot button topic these days, obviously.

If you're concerned with your integrity being called into question personally, it's a good idea to always keep a copy of the unedited file, and save changes as a separate file. If you're shooting RAW, even better.

[Nicole]

I guess that's where we differ then I also learned photography and post-processing by reading and experimenting and there's still not even one set of things I do for every photo because I think it's all about how it looks in the end. I do reduce noise, I do sharpen, but I'm not really sure there is a set of unwritten rules for post-processing that is common to everyone. I think that we as individuals eventually wind up with a set of unwritten rules for ourselves that fit out workflow and our style. Best of luck finding that set of rules!

[rrrrrrr]

Hey, thank you both for the articles... and for your understanding. Now I have certainly clarified more things. The links you mentioned have put some order in my thoughts (and I really needed this), after being overwhelmed by so much information that I gathered lately. But eventually I guess you're right Nicole, each of us is free to take any approach. It will now be easier for me to find that set of rules that fits my own style

Thanks again.
Rrrrrrr