Adobe Camera Raw Essential Training

Adobe evangelist Julieanne Kost takes you through Camera Raw, from fixing common problems to finding more creative uses for the program's nondestructive editing tools.

Introduction

• Welcome

1. Camera Raw Essentials

• Opening files from Adobe Bridge
• Starting in Camera Raw instead of Photoshop
• Comparing raw and JPEG files
• Touring the Camera Raw user interface
• Profiles: Setting a baseline for editing raw files
• Previewing before and after adjustments
• Resetting files in ACR
• Choosing the correct Camera Raw settings when handing off files to Photoshop
• Saving a copy without going to Photoshop

2. Cropping and Correcting Distortions

• Correcting lens distortion
• Removing chromatic aberration
• Automatically correcting perspective using Upright
• Using the nondestructive Crop tool
• Correcting a tilted horizon

3. Fixing Common Problems Quickly with ACR

• Fixing color casts with the White Balance tool
• Using the histogram and clipping warning when adjusting tones
• Recovering hidden highlight and shadow detail
• Making images pop using Contrast, Clarity, and Dehaze
• Boosting an image’s impact using Color Theme 27
• Removing small imperfections with the Spot Removal tool
• Reducing distracting noise
• Sharpening image details
• Bringing it all together: From meh to wow!

4. Camera Raw Local Adjustment Tools

• Enhancing an image using the Graduated Filter
• Highlighting important elements using radial gradients
• Making selective enhancements using the Adjustment brush
• Using the Range Mask tool to isolate local adjustments
• Saving presets for the local adjustment tools

5. Creative Techniques with Camera Raw

• Adding creative effects using profiles
• Converting images to black and white
• Using the Snapshot tool to explore different adjustments
• Using HSL for selective color changes
• Selective colorization of an image
• Creating a hand-colored look using the Adjustment brush
• Recreating traditional color toning effects
• Simulating cross-process and split-tone effects
• Emulating film grain textures
• Adding vignettes and border effects

6. Portrait Retouching Techniques in ACR

• Retouching blemishes with the Spot Removal tool
• Making teeth and eyes sparkle with the Adjustment brush
• Selective skin softening using negative clarity
• Removing red eye and pet eye

7. Automating Camera Raw

• Adjusting multiple images in Camera Raw
• Synchronizing changes across multiple files
• Copying and pasting adjustments across files
• Creating and applying Camera Raw presets
• Saving multiple files in Camera Raw
• Using Image Processor to batch process multiple files

8. Combining Multiple Images

• Merging multiple images to create a panorama
• Merging multiple exposures to improve dynamic range
• Creating a high dynamic range panorama

Conclusion

• Next steps