Why You Should Try Editing Old Photos Again

Photography is an ever-evolving art form, with technological advancements continuously reshaping how we capture and edit images in tandem with our own growth in skills and taste. Revisiting old photographs with today’s advanced editing tools offers a unique opportunity to breathe new life into past works. This practice is not only a testament to the growth of a photographer's skills but also a fascinating exploration of how modern tools can enhance images that were once considered finished and revitalize your portfolio without ever having to pull your camera out of the bag. 

Coming to you from Mark McGee Photos, this great video follows him as he revisits several of his images from five or six years ago to demonstrate the transformative power of modern editing tools. The video begins with an example of a street performer's photo, highlighting common editing missteps like oversaturation and exposure issues. He then skillfully demonstrates how desaturating colors to work in a black-and-white palette initially can help one focus on enhancing contrast without the distraction of colors. This technique, along with other adjustments like using masks for selective clarity and applying radial filters, illustrates the detailed process of refining an image. The video not only showcases technical skills but also emphasizes the importance of having a critical eye for color and composition in photography and how old images can be revitalized when your more refined eye gives them a second look.

It's important to remember that we are always growing as photographers, and sometimes, we don't necessarily need to go out and shoot new images to expand our portfolio. Often, applying improved editing techniques can make all the difference. Take an hour and see if you have any hidden gems in your portfolio! Check out the video above for the full rundown from McGee.