Choosing the right profile before editing can change the way your image looks and how much control you have over the final result. Different profiles apply varying levels of contrast, saturation, and tonal adjustments, making them a critical first step in post-processing.
Coming to you from Christian Möhrle - The Phlog Photography, this insightful video explains how profiles differ from presets and why they matter. Your camera applies a profile to every shot, but software like Lightroom offers additional options. Some profiles boost contrast and saturation, while others keep the image flat and neutral. A linear profile applies no tonal adjustments, offering the most neutral base for editing. Möhrle prefers Adobe Neutral for its flat look, which preserves details in highlights and shadows, giving more flexibility in post-processing.
Understanding the difference between profiles and presets helps you make better editing decisions. Profiles control how raw data is processed without altering any sliders, whereas presets apply adjustments like exposure or color balance. Starting with a flat profile gives you full control over contrast and color, making it easier to achieve the exact look you want. Möhrle demonstrates this by choosing a neutral profile before editing, then adjusting exposure, contrast, and clarity manually. The goal is to build up the image step by step rather than relying on automatic settings that might not suit every scene.
Once the profile is set, local adjustments refine specific areas. Möhrle uses linear gradients to darken the sky, add contrast, and sharpen details. A radial gradient enhances brightness near the horizon, creating more depth. Fine-tuning colors with the HSL panel and split toning further shapes the mood of the image. Subtle color grading, combined with targeted sharpening, makes the final image look more polished and intentional. 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!”
