Realizing the inherent beauty (or ugliness, for that matter) of an unedited image is a tough, tough call. Knowing when to work diligently on a raw image can be frustrating. As one calculates the bewildering combinations of filters, layers, software programs, slider controls...the possible mathematical combinations of all these devices must be in the millions. Should you process your image in a photo-realistic manner or blow it out in Photomatix? Should you incorporate black and white through Silver pro? Do you add a new sky or perhaps Photomerge the images together?
Tough call. Perhaps it's wise to take a few moments and just see what the photo tells you. After all, it is akin to a negative, digital but still, a platform from which you can begin. It'll speak quietly.
Is the image serious, dark? Is it playful? Are you dark... or playful? Who is your audience? Writers must answer this question,...so with photographers.
I deal with this eventuality every time I open a photo file. I often rush in, filled with the intoxicating elixir of hope only to discover, rudely, that the photo goes yet again, into the discard pile.
But first things first.
You must begin with a good photo. If you have that, keeping your options open, give that image every chance to succeed.
"What if" works wonders.
If it grows stale, delete layers. They're not etched in photographic gold anyway. Don't be enamored with your artistic greatness...you'll fail as a visual editor. Edit with a ruthless quality but at the same time, leave your current image the chance to develop
Finally... this "soup" is my recipe. It works for me. Will it work for you? That question just illuminates my arrogance.One other point....
As you're getting ready to hit the delete button, ask yourself one question...
"Am I dumping something great??"
Thanks for taking the time...........Doug Deacy
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