Photo Editing Workflow: From RAW to Final

Shooting in RAW format is the foundation of a professional editing workflow. Unlike JPEG, RAW files preserve all the data captured by your sensor, giving you maximum flexibility in post-processing.

The Import Stage

Establish a consistent folder structure from the start. Organize by year, then month, then by shoot. Use Lightroom's import dialog to add copyright metadata and apply a basic import preset that makes initial adjustments automatic.

Back up immediately. The 3-2-1 rule: three copies of your files, on two different types of media, with one copy offsite (or in the cloud).

The Culling Process

Before editing, cull your images ruthlessly. Rate your shots using a star system or color labels. Only proceed to full editing with your strongest images — typically 5-10% of what you shoot.

The Editing Sequence

Work globally before locally. Start with exposure, contrast, and white balance. Then adjust highlights, shadows, whites, and blacks. Only then should you move to local adjustments — masking specific areas for targeted corrections.