Photoshop is definately just another tool to help strengthen, accentuate, enhance, artistically alter, restore, OR rescue. (or on the downside totally screw things up!)

And though it may be sad to admit, the two go hand in hand (even the top seasoned PROs use photshop for post processing, they just get better results because it starts with great photo taking skills). The good thing about it though is that if you can take great photos, the post-process results will be that much more fantastic! The best outcome any of us can hope for is that when rescuing or retouching our photos, you won’t immediately say “WOW, it’s been photoshop’ed”, you will look at it and see a great photo.

I love reading the toughts of the MomShots followers, it gives me even more insight into what knowledge people are after! ThanX for adding up great links to sites too!

I totally agree with you about the necessity of learning to capture the images in camera first and then be able to enhance them. It’s the skills behind the camera that makes the difference. I think it’s a whole package of skills that need to be learned, most importantly what makes a good composition and interesting photograph. After you understand those kinds of basics then you can move onto the more advanced things like post processing.

Hmmm… I think I need to put some thought into the basics and make a post about that.

Thanks so much for the post, links and thoughts Summer!!!!!!!

Jessica
http://www.momshots.com

I also think it is important to note though that IMO if a photog can only improve in one area it is more important that they spend time becoming a stronger photographer than Photoshop wiz. (This is not directed at you Jess, as I think you have an amazing eye and talent–but just in general) I feel like post-processing just *accentuates*, so it can take a great picture to the next level or it can just draw attention to the flaws in a less than perfect shot.

http://www.chromasia.com/ –David Nightengale is easily on of my favorites. His signature look is super processed but to amazing ends. He offers details about each shot he posts in the comments but he also offers downloadable tutorials for a reasonable charge.

http://mylifeindigital.livejournal.com –Kelly Brewer is just a young local photographer that happened to do a session for my sister (You may recognise the suject matter lol) but I was really impressed. She takes good clean, interesting photos (lots of texture and depth, and good backgrounds like you talked about in a earlier post). Then the processing just makes all that pop out. She also offers a few tips here and there, just read for the links down the left side.

Enjoy!