4 Essential Steps for Editing Landscape Photography

Photography is not just about capturing a moment; it is also about refining it. Editing is an integral part of the photographic process, especially in landscape photography. While every photographer develops their own workflow, certain key steps remain universal. In this guide, we will explore the four essential steps of landscape photography editing, which can also be applied to other photography genres.

Step 1: Composition – Perfecting the Frame

Before diving into complex edits, the first step is ensuring your composition is visually appealing. A well-composed image creates a strong foundation for the rest of the editing process.

1.1 Crop and Resize

• Cropping should not be arbitrary; it should enhance the story within the frame.

  
  

• Be mindful of the aspect ratio based on the platform where you intend to share the image.

  
  

• Adjust the crop to eliminate distractions and direct the viewer’s attention to the subject.

  
  

1.2 Straighten the Horizon

• A tilted horizon can ruin a landscape shot. Use the straightening tool to ensure the horizon is level.

  
  

• If your image includes architectural elements or leading lines, make sure they are properly aligned.

  
  

Step 2: Color – Setting the Mood

Once the composition is in place, the next step is working on the color profile. Colors evoke emotions and can drastically change the mood of an image.

2.1 White Balance Adjustment

• Adjust the temperature and tint to correct color casts and match the lighting conditions.

  
  

• A cooler tone can add a moody or wintery feel, while a warmer tone makes the image feel golden and inviting.

  
  

2.2 Vibrance & Saturation

• Vibrance enhances muted colors while protecting already saturated tones.

  
  

• Saturation increases the intensity of all colors equally but should be used cautiously to avoid unnatural looks.

  
  

Step 3: Contrast – Enhancing the Depth

Contrast plays a crucial role in defining the highlights, shadows, and mid-tones within an image.

3.1 Contrast, Curves, and Levels

• The contrast slider can be used for a quick fix, but for precise adjustments, use the Curves tool.

  
  

• The Levels adjustment allows you to fine-tune the shadows, mid-tones, and highlights, enhancing the depth of the image.

  
  

3.2 Split Toning

• Split toning is a powerful tool for adding color contrast.

  
  

• Applying complementary colors to highlights and shadows (e.g., orange and teal) can make an image more visually engaging.

  
  

Step 4: Depth – The Finishing Touches

The final step is about refining the details to create a polished image that stands out.

4.1 Sharpness & High Pass Filter

• Apply selective sharpening using tools like High Pass Filter or Frequency Separation.

  
  

• Avoid over-sharpening the entire image—focus on making the subject crisp while maintaining a natural look.

  
  

4.2 Dodging and Burning

• Dodging (brightening specific areas) and burning (darkening areas) help guide the viewer’s eye.

  
  

• This technique is widely used to enhance light and shadow details, adding a three-dimensional feel to the image.

  
  

Final Thoughts

Editing landscape photography is an art in itself. Following these four essential steps—composition, color, contrast, and depth—ensures a well-balanced, visually appealing final image. While every photographer has their own unique approach, these steps serve as a great starting point for refining and enhancing landscape photos.

Have any additional tips or favorite editing techniques? Share your process in the comments!