Despite extensive beta-testing across various skin tones and conditions prior to the release of each and every collection at Luxe, we know it’s not a one-size fits all world. Some vibrant edits may result in red or orange tints to skin or subtle edits may leave skin washed out. These editing issues most often occur within photos shot by smartphones because smartphones (versus a digital camera) capture less light data within an image. They're also more likely to occur when photographers shoot in JPEG vs RAW. But fear not. There's a perfect preset for all tones of skin! This article was created to help you find your perfect fit when editing dark skin tones with presets.  

Adobe revealed some stunning suite-wide changes in June, many of which focused on cloud-based cross-product integration and sync. Photographers were especially excited for the latest Lightroom features, including local hue adjustment, ISO adaptive presets, and a centered crop overlay. Not to be lost in the cloud, the June update for Photoshop 2020 also revealed an exciting host of show-stopping feature upgrades many of which cross over from Lightroom in some pretty exciting ways, and two of which I will highlight here as especially relevant for photographers: a much-improved Smart Select for subjects and objects, and a completely revamped Adobe Camera Raw. 

This editing workflow guide is designed for preset users who wish to maximize their editing workflows and get the best images possible every single time in Lightroom for desktop and mobile without sacrificing time.

Light and airy edited images have quickly become a social media staple. Bright, white, soft-toned edits are commonly lauded as the ideal solution to cultivate a clean and cohesive social feed. However, this popular look can be difficult to replicate. So, how are all these people getting that perfect look? The answer lies in presets and post-processing.  

To celebrate Black American photographers, we’ve compiled a list of nine artists who we consider must-follow talent. Diverse in their aims and focus, these artists have made substantial contributions to their respective photography genres. 

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted both the photography industry and creatives at large. Many (including members of our team) have lost significant contracts and have felt disparaged regarding next season’s prospects. In response and in support, we’ve compiled some suggestions for new protocols and creative projects that you can start right now to boost both your income and your morale.

To increase reach in a rapidly evolving online environment can sometimes be tricky, especially when something is hot one week and almost unheard of the next. We evaluate the options. 

The COVID-19 outbreak has affected freelance and small business photographers everywhere, and so many of us were left reeling - both financially and mentally. We're here, and we stand with you in solidarilty. This article contains suggestions and resources to help you refocus and realign both yourself and your business. Our aim is to provide tools for continuity and confidence in the face of uncertainty and feelings of powerlessness.

Download your templates for this activity (free, during COVID isolation). Step 1. Launch Photoshop and open the .PSD Template. Step 2. Use the layer panel to view individual layers. Step 3. Select the text layer. Step 4. Select File > Place Embedded, then locate and open your image from your computer. Step 5. Drag and resize the image over the text. Step 6. Collapse the group. Step 7. Repeat steps 3-6 for additional text or numbers. Step 8. Use Layer Style options to enhance your text if desired. 

Camera technology has advanced at a rapid pace, with some mobile phones rivaling the best camera options from even five years ago. When it comes to the best camera of 2020, it’s a close race. It has become near impossible for the consumer eye to differentiate between different brands.

Think you’re finally ready to take on the world as a freelance photographer? Follow our eight-point plan for launching your career as a lone-sword in the cut-throat world of photography and you’ll be sure to hit the ground running.

With so many amazing Lightroom preset sellers on Etsy, why isn’t Luxe selling on Etsy? As a small business founded and run by Photographers, we’re big proponents of buying small and supporting other photographers. Etsy would seem the perfect fit. But it isn’t. And we’re happy to talk about why.