BBHQ task: PHOTO EDITING

What program(s) have you used in the past and currently using for editing your photos? Can you provide a short review, likes/dislikes?

• I mostly use Picasa photo editor for cropping, adjusting the light balance and watermarking my pictures.

• I have recently started to use GIMP which, I have to say, is easier than using Photoshop. It’s good for beginners.

• For online programs, I have used Ribbet and Collage maker for editing and making collages.

•  PicMonkey is also very good for creating effects on photos.

What are your thoughts on image editing websites; free or purchased?

I try the free image editing websites, but there are some premium features in the purchased version which you will not get in the free sites.

Do you use photography apps on your smartphone?

Yes, sometimes I use the photography apps on iPhone. Here are the apps I use-

• Camera!
• Visage Lab
• PE-Fotolr
• Camera-Fotolr

What program(s) would you recommend for beginner bloggers?

• Beginner bloggers can start with Picasa. Because when I tried the complex programs for the first time I was clueless. Picasa is really easy to work with, if your pictures are already captured well.

• You can also try GIMP. You can change the transparency, hide the unflattering spots/parts. Main thing is, you can download it for free!

• Try using PicMonkey sometimes. There are some nice filters/effects you can choose from which will give a nice touch to your photos. Here is an example after using PicMonkey effects.

What is your editing process like? Do you edit individual pieces or schedule a day for all your editing?

I store my pictures in my computer and sort out the good ones before I start to write an article. When the article is finished, I start to edit my photos.

I also do the editing process when I have free time.

For fun, show us some before and after examples from when you first started blogging and what your current content looks like.

Prepare yourself now! Because your eyes are going to hurt….

I am still learning different effects and editing process. Here is another example after using filter and adjusting the color.

There are both positive and negative sides of editing effects. Without the “flawless” or “blemish-free” or “whitened” skin, consumers won’t buy the foundation or concealer. BUT too much airbrushed picture gives an unrealistic look and creates a false image. That is why I try to control the impulse of erasing every blemish and whitening the skin when I am editing. My pictures do not look perfect, but at least those look real!

Stay Healthy, Stay Beautiful!