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Participant
October 18, 2024
Question

How Can I Maintain Color Accuracy While Editing RAW Files?

  • October 18, 2024
  • 3 replies
  • 609 views

Hey Adobe community! I've been doing photo editing of my RAW files in Lightroom, but I often struggle to maintain the natural color accuracy of my photos, especially after adjusting exposure and contrast. The colors sometimes seem too enhanced, and I’m not sure if I’m over-editing. Has anyone else experienced this?

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3 replies

Per Berntsen
Community Expert
Community Expert
October 23, 2024

If you would like more specific answers, and don't mind sharing an image, pick an edited raw file in LrC and export as DNG, which will include all your edits.

If the DNG is smaller than 47 MB, you can attach it to a post here. If it's larger than 47 MB, you have to use Dropbox or similar.

Participating Frequently
October 23, 2024

If you need real accuracy, you need to photograph a standard colour chart at the beginning (and end) of your shoot, or each time the lighting situation changes. Something like the Datacolor SpyderCheckr24: 24 Colour Patch and Grey Card. This comes with instructions for using in Lightroom and you can find videos online to walk you through.

JohanElzenga
Community Expert
Community Expert
October 18, 2024

Editing is a skill, that needs to be learned by trial and error. As all edits are non-destructive, Lightroom Classic is a great tool to learn these skills because you can never damage the image by doing something wrong. Start by hitting the 'Auto' button. That will often give you a pretty good starting point. Then adjust the sliders to change what you do not like. Use small increments. If colors get too saturated for your taste, then try another profile.

 

-- Johan W. Elzenga
Participant
October 18, 2024

Thanks for the help