Don’t Think You Suck at Editing

Seriously, don’t. Initially, I fucking hated this picture. (I’ve come to find out that I’m my own worst critic.) The colors sucked, the quality sucked, and the lighting was just atrocious. This was me in my infancy with editing and I had zero idea how much of a task it was.

I decided to go back and take a second stab at this image. Granted, it’s still not my favorite by any means, but it looks a hell of a lot better. As many of you know, I don’t really like to edit a lot of my photos unless it’s absolutely necessary. Albeit, I do apply a darker filter, I prefer to let the work speak for itself. I don’t use photoshop because it’s expensive as all hell, and frankly, I BARELY do much. So, here’s a brief list of what I think is most important:

1. Practice Your Lighting.

I had to learn the hard way that lighting was key to any image. Sometimes the aesthetic you’re looking for is going to be dark, but as tempted as you are to hide in a shadow—try to refrain from doing so. If you’re using an iPhone like me, the camera’s ISO is still not as good as a high-quality camera. Purchasing a ring light makes a world of difference, and depending on your mood—a colored one can definitely set it.

2. Avoid Emphasization (Don’t Over-Do It)

And as you can see in the first slide, that was my mistake. Often times I’ll define an aspect of an image. If there’s a specific detail of an SFX look I’ve done, adding definition isn’t necessarily a bad thing! BUT! Putting definition on parts of the image at too high a volume, or in an area where it’s not realistic can hurt the quality of what you’re trying to convey. Emphasizing the good parts and leaving the not-so-good can be everything.

3. Practice Your SFX

I say it a million times, but practicing SFX—no matter the medium—is definitely the best damn thing you can do. This takes PATIENCE, and even I’m still learning! Working with SFX and perfecting the craft will mean LESS editing, and that’s basically what you’re looking for overall! Even if you’re not a pro and don’t like certain parts of the image, editing can fix this. Always remember that horror isn’t perfect, and though people try to make it so-it’s not; so, don’t feel pressured!

4. Acting Is Important

Yes, you NEED to start practicing your acting! I can’t tell you how many good artists fall flat because they’re not embodying what they want. You can be scary or intimidating if you’re just standing still and looking dull. You have to start being dramatic! Make people FEEL what you FEEL.