Minimal Editing for Maximum Impact

Aerial photography already abstracts reality. Heavy editing can push it into uncanny territory. My workflow is designed to enhance, not reinvent.

The three-pass edit

1. Exposure and contrast — global adjustments only, no local dodging on large areas.
2. Color balance — slight warmth or coolness to match the mood of the scene, never oversaturated skies.
3. Clarity and texture — minimal; aerial haze is often part of the story.

What I avoid

• Sky replacement (the horizon tells you where you were)
• Aggressive HDR that removes natural shadow
• Oversharpening that creates halos on coastlines

The goal is for viewers to feel they could have seen this scene themselves—if only they had wings.