Footbridge
Footbridge

Same footbridge as yesterdays’s “Weekend Photo” image, photographed from a different angle with the same basic post processing.

This low saturation, color toned look I’ve been using lately does follow a core formula but then each image gets individual tweaking depending upon the composition, saturation level and tonal qualities of the original. This process originally began with the Lightroom 3 Aged Photo Preset which I’ve since modified into my own custom preset to include a smaller increase in exposure, less reduction of saturation, a custom tonal curve and individual color saturation/luminance adjustments.

After applying this new custom Lightroom prefix I export the image to Photoshop where I’ll normally use NIK Color Efex to reduce or remove the yellow/green color cast and slightly adjust the tonal contrast as well as adjust the shadows and highlights. Of course at the very beginning noise is looked at and corrected if needed and sharpness is addressed in the processing as well. All of these adjustments in Photoshop may use layer masks to apply them to only certain areas of the image. As I said, there is a core formula but then there are variations. I do strive for consistent results.

I’m still adjusting this process, probably always will be, but I do like the overall effect for certain types of photos/compositions.

8 Comments
Oldest
Newest Most Voted
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments
Journey Photographic
14 years ago

I think the post processing works really well with this shot, and this and the depth of field complements the subject matter nicely.

Steve Skinner
14 years ago

I really enjoy your bridge images! They always make me wonder what’s on the other side.

don
don
14 years ago

Another fine, subtle variation. Trying new things is a good way to keep the works fresh and challenging.

Chris Klug
14 years ago

Have a good time tonight, guys. I hope someone takes a picture of the three of you together.