How much editing is acceptable?

[ConniePinson]

Hi,

I am looking for some guidance regarding photo editing prior to submitting content.

I use Lightroom for my photo processing and editing. Lightroom now has a "De-noise" option in processing which does a fabulous job, however, I am wondering if using the De-noise facility on photos an acceptable development prior to submitting photos for the stock library?

I am uploading a sample of one photo both before and after the de-noise processing as an example.

Thanking you in advance for any advice

Kind regards

Connie

[Jill_C]

Digital noise is probably one of the most frequent reasons for a "quality" rejection by the Adobe Moderators; therefore, it is definitely recommended to use whatever denoise tools you have available. As you've probably discovered, you can overdo it, which causes overall softening of the image. The noise is noticeably improved in your image, however, it's also underexposed, so more editing is required prior to submission.

[ConniePinson]

Thank you for your information and advice.

Much appreciated.

[Nancy OShea]

Make whatever corrections are appropriate to ensure a commercial quality image.

• Proper cropping/framing to create a pleasing composition.
• Neutral white balance.
• Balanced exposure levels (see Histogram panel)
• Sharp details.
• Even color saturation.
• Removal of unwanted artifacts. Etc...

Almost every digital image needs some adjustment in post.

Keep your original RAW images intact in case you need to revert.

[ConniePinson]

Thank you for your information. That gives me clear direction.

[Nancy OShea]

I think it's only fair to mention that you're competing with 23 MILLION similar assets. There's a boat load of competition in flowers. So don't be surprised if Stock rejects it for "similar content."  
https://stock.adobe.com/ca/search?k=purple+flowers

Everyone & their cousin submits sunsets & flowers. But few people submit cardboard boxes & takeout food containers. Just something to consider when choosing subjects for Stock.  😉

Good luck.

[ConniePinson]

Thank you. I have sold many of my flower photos previously (including for use on TV) and have been selling with Adobe (and other libraries for a number of years).

[Nancy OShea]

The "similar content" refusal is a new policy trend.  If you read through other posts here, you'll find many discussions about it. 

https://community.adobe.com/t5/stock-contributors-discussions/update-on-similar-refusals/td-p/152984...

[RALPH_L]

As you should already know, being a seasoned contributor, photos must be top quality to be accepted. Noise being one of the major factors for rejections. 
I too use LR denoise capabilities but, I find Photography AI from Topaz Labs to be much better. Here your photo after slightly increasing the exposure and processing in Photography AI:

[ConniePinson]

Thank you Ralph for your advice.

I hae always done sufficient development, however haven't used the de-noise option. To date, I have rejected a number of photos from submitting due to noise, so I think I now need to revisit some of them.

I really appreciated you advice regarding Photography AI. 

My original reason for posting my question was due to notices coming out from stock libraries about restrictions on the use of AI. These responses have helped to clarify and remove my concerns.

Nice work over of my photo also - thank you. I will check out Topaz Labs.