In the most recent update to Lightroom’s masking tools, Adobe repackaged many capabilities that were already there they just weren’t previously called masks. Essentially, if you have used localized corrections in Lightroom, then you’ve used masks. Masks aren’t new to digital photography or even to Lightroom. Lightroom Classic’s masking tools make it significantly faster and simpler for photographers to develop and stylize their work, ultimately making the goal of creating a “great photograph” that much easier. Masking is one of the most powerful tools we have for the craftsmanship aspect of our photography. What I can say somewhat concisely is that good photography is a dance between science and creativity, objectivity and subjectivity, and luck and craftsmanship.
It would be too long-winded to fit into one little article. What’s the secret to creating a great photograph? What are the elements that make a photograph successful? Truthfully, even though photography is how I make my living, I’m not sure I can give a concise answer. Four masks applied to an image of Tunnel View at Yosemite National Park.
