I define “Post-production” as anything done to an image (or set of images) after the initial exposure. This definition may sound fairly simple and straightforward; however, the reality is a bit more complicated.

Because the post-production process requires personal and subjective decisions to be made, post-production is a difficult topic to explain in a simple manner. The process runs the gamut from very basic tasks (such as simply deleting certain images) to very complex tasks (such as selecting multiple shots and seamlessly turning them into a single image).

There are some basic factors you’ll want to consider when doing post-production work on nude and erotic images. Within this type of photography, the primary focus is usually on the basic “retouching” of an image (in contrast to changing the image dramatically using more elaborate effects).

A basic definition of “retouching” is, “The treatment of a photograph to remove dust spots or blemishes; to adjust or remove unwanted elements of an image; or to add entirely new elements to an image.” However, don’t let the simplicity of this definition mislead you. In reality, becoming highly skilled at the retouching process requires a great deal of practice and patience. I discuss this topic in more detail in my ebook, “Money Shots: The Insider’s Guide to the World of Nude & Erotic Photography” (available for purchase and immediate download at http://moneyshotsbook.com).

Before the onset of digital photography, retouching was primarily accomplished by making changes on an actual photographic print. However, nearly all retouching today is done on computers using software specifically designed for the purpose. Most likely, you’re already aware of a program called Adobe Photoshop. This program is so dominant in the industry that it’s very name is now nearly synonymous with “retouching”.

I use Apple computers and Photoshop for my work. I highly recommend both of them. However, if you have no prior experience with Photoshop, it’s a very time-consuming program to learn fully. Fortunately, Adobe makes a lighter-weight version called Photoshop Elements. While it doesn’t contain all the power of the full Photoshop version, Elements is definitely capable of handling the vast majority of post-production tasks (and it is significantly less expensive).

Since every post-production program will differ slightly regarding specific tools and nomenclature, it’s not possible to give detailed instructions concerning how to do individual tasks within each and every program. Additionally, with each passing day, these programs get increasingly sophisticated; it’s simply not possible to keep up with every incremental advance.

It’s important to remember that post-production software is nothing more than an additional tool for you to use to create the images you want. Post-production software is no more or less important than any other photography equipment. It’s vital to remember that your own creativity is the most important tool you will ever have. My advice to you is to commit to a specific software program and immerse yourself in it for a few weeks (or months, or years). Through simple trial and error, you’ll soon become accustomed to what changes are possible.

Author Bio: Michael Charles is a professional photographer based in Los Angeles, California. He is the author of \”Money Shots: The Insider\’s Guide to the World of Nude & Erotic Photography\” (this book is available for purchase and immediate download at http://www.moneyshotsbook.com). For over a decade, Michael has shot exclusively in the world of nude, erotic, and adult-oriented photography. His work has been featured in hundreds of national and international publications and appears on a wide variety of prominent websites. For a complete course on the techniques, styles, moneymaking secrets, and amazing fringe benefits of nude and erotic photography, visit http://www.moneyshotsbook.com.

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