INTRODUCTION & CREATIVE CONTEXT

Topics Covered:
Introduction to the Haar Studios workflow
The role of an editor in modern photography
Editing as storytelling, not correction
Understanding visual identity and style (you vs client)

Key Takeaway:

Editing is not an afterthought, it’s part of the creative vision from the beginning.

PRE-PRODUCTION THINKING FOR EDITORS

Topics Covered:
How concepts influence editing decisions
Mood boards, references, and visual research
Planning for post-production during a shoot

Practical Insight:

What to look for on set to save time and improve results in post.

FROM SHOOT TO SCREEN – FILE PREPARATION

Topics Covered:
Image selection and culling mindset
Non-destructive workflows
Preparing files for you main edits (element clean ups)

Practical Insight:

Building a clean, professional workflow that scales.

PHOTOSHOP WORKFLOW – FOUNDATIONS

Topics Covered:
Photoshop interface and workspace setup
Essential tools for professional editing
Layer management and smart workflows
Masks, selections, and adjustment layers
Building edits gradually and intentionally

Practical Exercise:

Hands-on walkthrough of a base edit.

RETOUCHING WITH PURPOSE

Topics Covered:
Skin retouching philosophy (realism vs perfection)
Frequency separation (when and when not to use it)
Dodge & burn for depth and dimension
Cleaning distractions without losing texture
Maintaining skin tone integrity

Key Focus:

Editing that enhances, not erases.

COLOR GRADING & MOOD CREATION

Topics Covered:
Understanding color relationships
Creating consistent color palettes (projrct brief)
Contrast, shadows, and highlights control
Matching edits to concept and emotion
Developing a recognisable editing style (you vs client)

Practical Insight:

How color transforms an image emotionally.

LIVE EDITING SESSION (START TO FINISH)

What Happens:
Full live edit of an image
Step-by-step explanation of decisions
Problem-solving in real time
Answering “why” behind every move

Participant Experience:

Watch the entire workflow unfold.

FINAL DELIVERY & PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE

Topics Covered:
Export settings for different platforms
Preparing images for clients, print, and social media
Version control and revisions
Working with feedback
Building trust as an editor

CAREER & CREATIVE GROWTH (OPEN DISCUSSION)

Topics Covered:
Q&A and open creative discussion
Finding your editing voice
Collaborating with photographers