Color contrast can completely transform a landscape photo, adding depth and drama that draw in the viewer. This tutorial explores how to use Lightroom to balance color tones for maximum effect in autumn shots, from the initial HDR merge to targeted adjustments that bring out the richness of each part of the image.
Coming to you from Christian Möhrle - The Phlog Photography, this detailed video demonstrates an HDR merge in Lightroom to capture both bright and dark elements of the scene followed by the addition of color contrast. Möhrle explains how merging multiple exposures brings out the details in high-contrast scenes, like a bright foreground against a moody sky. Once the HDR merge is complete, the video shows how to fine-tune exposure by lowering highlights to recover details and adjusting shadows to maintain a balanced tone. By starting with these basic adjustments, Möhrle sets up the scene to highlight the warmth of the foreground and the cold, dark hues of the sky.
Möhrle goes on to explain how tweaking white balance in Lightroom can enhance the natural contrast between the warm and cool tones in the scene. Increasing vibrance and saturation temporarily, he isolates areas where warm tones spill over into the sky and then uses the temperature slider to bring in cooler blue tones. This method allows for a sharper contrast between the bright foliage and the deep blues in the clouds. For those looking to experiment with seasonal color grading, these adjustments offer a straightforward way to achieve that crisp autumn look while keeping the image realistic.
With the color balance established, the video shows how adding clarity, texture, and dehaze enhances detail, giving the image a sharper, more defined appearance. Möhrle explains how each adjustment layer can be applied selectively through Lightroom’s masking tools. For example, using a Sky mask to selectively cool down the sky, while adjusting warmth in the trees, builds a strong visual separation between foreground and background. This approach helps emphasize the fall colors without affecting the natural tones in other areas, preserving the integrity of the scene. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Möhrle.
And if you really want to dive into landscape photography, check out our latest tutorial, "Photographing the World: Japan II - Discovering Hidden Gems with Elia Locardi!”
