Post Production Tips to Save Time
[by Todd Joyce]
Speed in post keeps you from wasting valuable time. Here are just a few tips to save time.
- Learn common key strokes, like the bracket keys in Photoshop to shrink (use the left [ bracket) and enlarge (use the right ] bracket) brush size and the “X” key to swap bush colors, especially when painting masks with white and black.
- Recent Mac OS’s allow you to click on icons and hit the space bar to view a preview window without opening the software to view files. This works on docs, video and images in most formats.
- Find quick fixes to common retouching issues. To smooth skin, I create a duplicate layer, apply the Dust & Scratches filter (approx radius of 6 and threshold of 24, depending on file size and skin issues), then create a mask that hides all and use the brush tool with various brush opacities to reveal the smoothed layer. It’s not good overall, it has to be applied to only certain areas.
- Determine a workflow for everything in naming, archiving etc. This saves in organization and prevents time wasted in looking for the right files. ASMP’s dpBestflow project can help.
- Work non-destructively using adjustment layers so that you don’t have to go back and recreate files that need to be changed.
- Set up actions and presets for any repetitive activities that are common for your workflow.
Todd Joyce captures people and makes them do silly things to sell products and services. He also works and plays well with others. See his work at joycephotography.com or email him: Joyce@ASMP.org.
One Response to 'Post Production Tips to Save Time'
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Thank you Todd …..Have a Great Weekend!