I think most people assume photography is just point and shoot. I constantly hear "wow that's a great picture, what camera do you have?" and while the camera is an important tool it's just the canvas... or the paintbrush..? It's a tool, it's not the artist. you can make great images no matter what "box" you're using.

Beyond that, so much of what we do is done after the fact. There are photographers who shoot pictures and hand over the memory card afterward, completely unedited. That's called "shoot and burn" photography and it's perfectly acceptable if that's what you're looking for, but that's not what I do and here's why...

There is so much that can be accomplished with post processing. Just a few minor adjustments can change the entire mood of a photo.

This is SOOC (straight out of camera) ISO 800 F3.5 1/30

Very cute picture of a very cute kid but definitely feels unfinished.

Quick Clean edit/ Soft edit

I'll edit this way for sneak peaks sometimes just to give a client an idea of what the pictures look like. I have a preset made and can do this edit in less than a minute but its not a completely polished look.

Light and Airy Edit

This is a popular way to edit. The subject is cooler and bright but not too cold. it feels natural but ethereal.

Dark and Moody

This is a really trendy way to edit but if you're not careful it just ends up looking underexposed.

Soft Pink Light

Whimsical and sweet. My dream is to find a lilac farm to shoot at and add violet and gold light. DREAM BIG

Matte Edit

This style is also really trendy right now, it actually has been for a little bit. the flat, velvety shadows can be really romantic and are popular for engagement announcements and even some weddings.

Black and White Edit

I really think Black and white can make just about any image look sophisticated. It's so classic.

Many photographers develop a signature style or visual voice through their edits and it becomes their calling card. I haven't been able to choose. Which style is your favorite.