Introduction to Image Editing Softwares (Photoshop, Lightroom)

Introduction to Image Editing Software

Photoshop and Lightroom are professional-grade image editing software from Adobe that are widely used in the photography industry.

What to know about Photoshop

Photoshop allows in-depth editing of each individual pixel. This makes it extremely versatile and suitable for detailed work.
Common uses of Photoshop include retouching and manipulating images, correcting imperfections, changing the background of an image, or creating composite images.
It offers a variety of advanced features and tools such as Layers, Actions, Brushes, Filter effects, and Adjustment Tools.
Photoshop uses a destructive editing process, which means each edit directly changes the original image. Remember to keep an original copy of your images before editing.

What to know about Lightroom

Lightroom, unlike Photoshop, is primarily a photo management and editing tool.
It uses a non-destructive process, meaning it saves edits separately from the original photo. This allows you to easily revert back to the original image at any stage.
Lightroom offers extensive organisational features, making it ideal for managing large numbers of images.
Useful tools within Lightroom include Presets which allow for quick application of a set of adjustments across multiple images, and the Graduated and Radial Filters for selective editing of parts of an image.
While Photoshop is generally better for heavy image manipulation, Lightroom is better for most standard photo edits.

Comparing Photoshop and Lightroom

Both Photoshop and Lightroom have their own strengths and are used for different purposes.
Understanding the differences between the two is crucial in choosing the right tool for a specific task or project.
Both software provide the ability to do basic image corrections such as adjusting exposure, contrast, and saturation.
Photographers often use Lightroom for quick edits and organisation of raw files, and then use Photoshop for detailed editing work on selected images.
Both tools can be used together in a workflow - Lightroom for initial edits and organisation, followed by Photoshop for more detailed, pixel-level editing.

Remember, mastery of these tools is essential in post-production techniques. Practice using different tools and editing methods to familiarise yourself, and to develop your own unique style and workflow.