A Simple Step-by-Step Approach to Editing Photos

One of the most common challenges I hear from students isn’t about how to use Lightroom in general—it’s about the why behind their edits. How do you approach your editing sessions with intention and creativity?

For me, it all starts with evaluating the composition. I ask myself what I can amplify to highlight the most important elements, create more depth and dimension, and exclude what isn’t contributing to the story of the image.

Here’s a summary of my thought process when I critique and edit an image. I hope it serves as a guide to help make your editing sessions more intentional.

1. Start with a Good Look

Before touching any tools, I critically evaluate the photo. What’s working well, and what’s distracting from the story? What adjustments can I make to clarify what I think the image is about based on the actual composition?

(And here’s a key point: this is different from ignoring what you think others will or will not see!)

2. Simplify the Composition

If the composition feels cluttered or unfocused, I strengthen it by cropping out distractions and refining the framing. Almost every time, a tighter composition results in a more engaging and powerful image.

3. Build a Solid Foundation

Next, I adjust global settings—highlights, shadows, whites, blacks—to balance the overall light and dark areas. I’ll also tweak the temperature to set the mood and feel of the image. (This is subjective of course—only you can decide what mood the image should have—but again, it needs to be supported by the actual composition.) This step sets the stage for more targeted, localized refinements.

4. Amplify Key Areas

This is where the image starts to come to life. Using tools like linear gradients or brushes, I attempt to enhance and amplify specific parts of the image to create depth and dimension. Dodging (brightening) and burning (darkening) areas of light and shadow help to guide the viewer’s eye and add visual interest.

I also fine-tune the colors here, adjusting warm and cool tones to match the mood I want to convey. Thoughtfully balancing these tones can create a sense of space and separation between the layers in your composition.

5. Step Back and Reflect

Finally, I compare the before and after. Are my edits strengthening the story? Do they feel intentional and cohesive? I find that a thoughtful, balanced approach always works better than heavy-handed adjustments.

If you’d like to see this process in action, check out this video, where I critique and edit two images submitted by an Academy member. You’ll see exactly how small, purposeful changes can transform an image while keeping it authentic.

Comments or feedback? Let me know below!