I don’t like saying no to photoshop or photo editing requests and having to kindly remind clients that per contract, the images provided are the complete and final product. I like my clients to be happy and really enjoy their photos. If there is something more that I can do to make your images more enjoyable, I would be happy to review your request and give you a quote for the work. Requests are considered individually and charged a per-image rate mostly based on time (and a small amount based on the amount of magic desired).

The rate is $25 per hour.

To make an image editing / photoshop request, please click the following link to fill out a quick questionnaire about your request.

In the digital age that we live in, I see more and more requests and expectations for post-production, photo-editing magic. From a client's view of my professional portfolio, it is not easy (nor do I expect everyone) to perceive the work that is done in the “background.” There are no magic buttons in photoshop or in any photo editing program that will make things disappear or shave off 10 lbs and “double chins.” I do a lot of editing without question or request and that probably isn’t easily identifiable. Kind of similar to how a fancy chef may turn raw meat into a fancy meal… or a baker will turn cake batter into a birthday masterpiece. I provide these services based on my discretion and they are included with my prices. Many times, I do too much and spend too much time being a perfectionist.

Understanding the post-production process is a good way to understand why I need to charge an added fee for the extra time required to make additional edits. I work very hard to make sure you are very happy! 

The Process

Culling

After I complete a photo session, I cull the images.

This means, during the photo upload, the obviously bad ones are rejected and trashed (sounds more harsh than it is).

A second cull is done to pick the good. I usually pick a large number of “good” photos then compare those to pick the “best.” The last and extra step to culling photos is not done by all photographers, but is something I like to do. A very basic example: If there are 3 good portraits of Jack holding his balloon and looking at the camera, I like to compare the 3 photos up close to pick the one of best quality (one may be focused on the eyes, while another might be more focused on the balloon).

Basic editing

Think color, light, temperature, sharpness, noise, etc. During this process, I also flag pictures that I think may require more detailed edits.

The more detailed edits

Removing things that may not be there 10 days later (zit, bruise, crumbs on toddlers’ faces, some hair flyaways, etc).

Objects that are easily removed (but usually removed during the photo session).

Some skin and background “blurring."

Very detailed/time consuming edits

Anything more than a “light erase” is probably something that takes time, skill, experience, and practice. There are a lot of factors that can make something easier or harder to do. I do many of these kinds of edits already.

Background changes, such as sky or a newborn lay out.

Tricky object removal (that weird guy at the wedding picking his nose or officiant who wasn’t fast enough and is standing directly behind an amazing kiss between bride and groom). Side note: kindly make sure your officiant knows you don't want them to be apart of you first kiss!!

Photo delivery

create gallery on website and deliver link to clients so they can enjoy, smile, download and make purchases!