What Does ‘Fully Edited’ Mean?

Every photo is unique & requires their own specific edits, but this post will give you an idea of what I do when preparing your images. Let’s compare the unedited RAW image to the final edited photo.

Straight Out Of Camera RAW File | Before Edit
After Editing a RAW File | Las Vegas Dating Photo

1. Color: Saturation, color temperature (how warm or cool a photo looks), and skin tones are adjusted for a natural, flattering result.

2. Flyaway hairs and skin flaws: I leave permanent features like moles unless you request removal. Temporary distractions like pimples or stray hairs are retouched so you look your absolute best.

3. Removing distractions: Other people in the background are removed whenever possible, keeping the focus on you. While there may be rare exceptions, this is almost always achievable.

4. Eliminating unnecessary elements: Small items like fans, speakers, or clutter are taken out. While they might not “ruin” a photo, removing them ensures the viewer’s attention stays on you.

5. Background refinement: When it makes sense, I’ll slightly blur or reduce the saturation of the background. This subtle touch adds polish and sets your photos apart from the average snapshot.

6. Wardrobe touch-ups: Odd wrinkles or creases in clothing are smoothed out, along with other minor fixes to make your outfit look its best. In this case, texture was added to enhance the leather jacket. 

7. Essential adjustments: Contrast, exposure, highlights, and shadows are carefully edited. This step is non-negotiable: any professional photographer should be doing this for you.

8. Straightening & cropping: Each photo is aligned and cropped for maximum visual impact, optimized for whatever app or platform you plan to use it on.

9. Final export: The finished photo is delivered in the proper color space and file size to maintain sharpness and resolution.

When minor flaws are removed from your dating profile, it’s these types of subtle things that potential matches unconsciously notice. Every adjustment is made with the goal of helping you stand out, make a stronger first impression, and feel more confident about how you present yourself.

When you book a photo shoot, you deserve photos that are ready to share the day they arrive. If you are curious how I would edit yours, send me a message and I will gladly walk you through it.