The Art of Editing: A Peek Behind the Scenes
- Joanna Jablonka
- Nov 14, 2025
- 4 min read
Understanding the Editing Process
Before any retouching can be applied, first I need to make global colour adjustments to achieve those creamy whites, warm skin tones, and consistent light. This is the fist step, making sure all the images in your proofing gallery are even in brightnerss and consistent in colour.
As I use natural light, even a passing cloud can dramatically affect the brightness and colour casts in a photo.
The advantage of shooting in natural light is the flexibility and agility of locations and posing it allows - achieving more candid, natural looking photos. The drawback, is more intense editing.
All of that happens first, along with image selection, cropping, orientation, and lighting adjustments. By the time I begin retouching, the overall feel of the image is already in place.
Step 1: Lightroom — The Gentle Clean-Up
Every image starts in Lightroom. Here, I manually remove tiny distractions like dry skin flakes, the odd pimple, milk dribble, and eye crust (every newborn has it!). I use a mix of the Remove tool and the newer AI Remove option. This step is crucial for close-ups and detail shots, where I want to preserve all the original texture and character of your skin. I remove only the temporary bits that don’t truly reflect you or your baby.
Step 2: Evoto — The Quick Polish
After Lightroom, I export the file into Evoto, a newer AI retouching program that’s quickly becoming a rival to Photoshop. It’s fast and powerful, but not quite refined enough for me to use on its own. This is why it works best as a complement to my Lightroom work. Here, I give the image a gentle polish. I refine skin texture, even out tones, remove lingering blemishes, and add subtle enhancements like lip tone. Think of it as the final glow on top of a carefully built foundation.
Step 3: Photoshop — The Finishing Touch (When Needed)
Not every image needs Photoshop, but some do. It’s where I handle anything more complex. This includes tidying backgrounds, removing distracting objects, selectively sharpening or blurring areas, or fine-tuning elements that require a more hands-on, artistic approach.
The Importance of Authenticity
Every photo you receive has been cared for with intention. They are cleaned where it matters, polished where it helps, and kept natural where authenticity shines brightest. As a Sydney newborn photographer and family photographer, my goal is always to deliver images that look like you, at your best, in the most meaningful moments of your story.
Capturing Cherished Moments
Photography is about more than just taking pictures. It’s about capturing cherished moments that tell your family’s unique story. Each image serves as a reminder of the love and joy shared during those fleeting times. Whether it’s a newborn’s first smile or a family gathering, these images become treasured keepsakes.
Why Choose Professional Photography?
Choosing professional photography ensures that these moments are captured beautifully. A skilled photographer knows how to highlight the emotions and connections that make your family unique. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, I strive to create images that resonate with warmth and authenticity.
The Experience of a Family Session
When you book a session with me, you’re not just getting photos. You’re investing in an experience. I aim to create a relaxed environment where everyone feels comfortable. This allows for genuine interactions and candid moments that truly reflect your family’s personality.
Preparing for Your Session
Preparation is key to a successful photography session. Here are some tips to help you get ready:
Choose the Right Outfits: Coordinate outfits that complement each other without being too matchy. Soft, neutral tones work well.
Plan for Comfort: Ensure everyone is comfortable in their clothing. This will help everyone feel at ease during the session.
Bring Props: Consider bringing meaningful items like toys or blankets that can add a personal touch to your photos.
Relax and Have Fun: The best photos come from genuine moments. Don’t stress about posing; just enjoy the time together.
The Final Product
Once the session is complete, the editing process begins. I take great care in selecting the best images and ensuring each one is polished to perfection. You’ll receive a collection of images that beautifully capture your family’s essence.
The Journey of Editing: More Than Just a Process
Editing is not just a task; it’s a journey. Each step I take is a reflection of the love and care I have for your memories. I want every image to resonate with the emotions of that moment. Whether it’s the soft glow of a newborn’s skin or the laughter shared during a family gathering, I aim to encapsulate it all.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the editing process is a vital part of creating stunning family photographs. From the initial clean-up in Lightroom to the final touches in Photoshop, each step is designed to enhance your images while preserving their authenticity. I am dedicated to delivering photos that reflect your family’s unique story, capturing moments that you will cherish for years to come.
If you’re interested in learning more about my process, feel free to check out my video walkthrough. It’s a great way to see how I bring your family’s memories to life.
---wix---
Comments