Senior boys often love wearing hats in their photos, which adds a personal touch to their portraits. However, hats can create challenges when it comes to lighting, especially on cloudy days or when natural light isn’t hitting their face just right. Without off-camera lighting, the brim of the hat can cast heavy shadows over their eyes, making them appear dark and less defined. This is where careful editing makes all the difference!

How I Adjusted This Image:

• Lifted Shadows in Lightroom: To bring back details in the face, I used the shadow adjustment tool to brighten the darker areas without overexposing the rest of the image.

• Used the Dodge Tool for Targeted Brightening: The area directly under the hat brim, including the forehead and eyes, needed extra attention. Using the dodge tool, I subtly lightened these areas to make the subject’s expression stand out while maintaining a natural look.

• Enhanced Overall Warmth and Contrast: Cloudy days can make images appear a bit dull, so I adjusted the white balance and contrast to bring vibrancy back into the portrait.

Why These Edits Matter:

By carefully lifting shadows and strategically brightening certain areas, I was able to ensure that the senior’s eyes and facial features remained the focal point of the portrait. The final result keeps the natural, rugged look of the original shot while making sure his expression is clear and engaging.

Hats don’t have to be a challenge in senior photography! With the right editing techniques, we can balance personal style with well-lit, high-quality portraits. Have you ever struggled with shadows in your portraits? Let me know in the comments!