Hi all, I'm an amateur photographer who mostly photograph my own family and life and I have a really hard time doing edits to my photos. That is because I really like a natural look for them and am never satisfied with my edits fully.
Here are a two examples I really like, but wouldn't know what to do with them.
What would you do with my first two images, if anything at all?
I realize the first was shot on my phone, but still, the light was so perfect and I didn't have time to grab my camera (and it is a very simple entry level in a Canon T6).
On the first image, looks like you're getting some monster lighting that's why she's got shadows above her cheeks. You could dodge (brighten) to clean that up. And, since you'd clean that up, it would make sense do the top of her nose also because it's getting the same effect. I would also burn (darken) her body so it's not as bright as her face. Lastly, might as well dodge/burn to cleanup the rest of her face (mainly forehead).
Just to give you a general idea. Here's a before and after quick edit. Use arrowkeys to go back and forth.
Thank you very much for your input.
You made your point crystal clear and then even put a small example by editing the photo, and I thank you for that.
I see and understand how your edited picture is more professional and flattering, but I don't know why I really like the shadows on the original.
That is why I struggle, because I may have a very peculiar taste in images or just haven't learnt to see the light in the right way.
I understand why it should be more pleasant in the edit, but I myself like the original as well.
I just want to say there is no "right" way to light. There are generally accepted ways, and ways that people find more "flattering", but if you like it, it's good. Just be aware that other people may not agree. Good work.