Achieving the perfect shot is a constant pursuit for photographers, but the path to perfection isn't always clear-cut. The age-old debate of "get it right in camera" versus "fix it in post" is an important consideration, especially in the world of commercial photography, where time is money and budgets are tight.
Coming to you from Scott Choucino with Tin House Studio, this insightful video delves into the realities of professional photography and the delicate balance between in-camera precision and post-production adjustments. Choucino emphasizes that commercial shoots involve numerous stakeholders, from creative directors to stylists, all contributing to the final product. Therefore, every minute spent striving for in-camera perfection adds to the overall cost.
Choucino highlights the importance of understanding the financial implications of each approach. For instance, changing backgrounds in post-production is often more cost-effective than shooting on multiple sets. Similarly, minor dust specks can be easily removed during editing, saving valuable time on set. However, when dealing with high-resolution video footage, fixing issues in post can quickly become a time-consuming and expensive endeavor.
The video goes on to explore the practical aspects of decision-making on commercial shoots. Choucino emphasizes the need for photographers to constantly assess the situation and make informed choices about whether to prioritize in-camera techniques or rely on post-production solutions. This involves collaborating with retouchers and other team members to understand the time and cost implications of each approach. Ultimately, the goal is to deliver exceptional results within budget and time constraints.
While the video focuses on commercial photography, the underlying principles apply to all photographers. Choucino encourages viewers to embrace the creative freedom that post-processing tools offer. Instead of getting caught up in the "purist" mindset, he advocates for utilizing all available resources to achieve the desired outcome. Whether it's cropping, color grading, or more advanced manipulations, the final image is what truly matters. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Choucino.
