Monday, June 7, 2010

Lights, Camera, Actions!

I'm addicted to actions.  I downloaded some free ones to Photoshop and can't stop using them now.  They make editing photos sooooooo much easier.  What did I do before them??  Oh I remember!  Spend an insane amount of time editing my pictures and they still never turned out great!  My friend, Ree, otherwise known as The Pioneer Woman has some free actions.  OK..so we aren't really friends, but I did meet her and she did sign my cookbook so I like to tell myself we're friends.  I also got some wonderful, free actions from Rita at Coffee Shop Blog Design.  Rita did my awesome blog makeover.  She has all sorts of neat stuff on her blog.  You probably know all about her site, but in case you don't, go check it out!

Here's an example of a before and after.  I took this picture of my nephew last summer when I was in Michigan.  


Before


I used one of Rita's actions on this...I think it was a vintage one.  I also added a texture.  I need to get the hang of textures, but for the most part I am pleased with it.


I used Rita's Sun Kissed action and a texture on this one.  The spot on his lip is from the sun flare from the action.  I could move it around so it's not there, but I didn't take the time to do that yet.

I am definitely just a beginner at all of this, but the actions allow me to edit with the click of my mouse.  They come with really easy instructions on how to download too. I know I will be taking a lot more photos this summer and doing a lot more editing.  I want to be ready when we finally have our little one home.  I'm also wanting to learn to shoot in manual more than I do now.  Goals for the summer.


Thanks for all the well wishes on the last post.  Our social worker called today just a short time before our appointment (our agency is an hour from our house).  He had to cancel today due to something going on.  The nice thing is that he is just going to do everything when he comes to our house on Wednesday.  I was freaking out a little at first because I am such a planner and control freak.  Once again I learned....I'm not in control here.  So we'll see what Wednesday brings.


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14 comments:

Jenny said...

Neat! I think editing photos is actually fun lol.

I keep saying I want to delve into photography but I just haven't made that leap yet to doing all of that.

..Soo.See.. said...

Actions are so much fun right?! I've 'sort of' learned how to manipulate the actual actions once they're a layer so I adjust it, if need be. Once you go in to Manual, one day, you'll be all, "oh! I got it!". ;) Love the afters and the ones from the previous post for your portfolio. Sending positive vibes for your interviews!!

sienna said...

goodluck tomorrow!! will be keeping my fingers crossed (although i doubt you need it) that everything goes well. i'm sure you'll blow the social worker's socks off :o)

ps - LOVE the pics that you posted yesterday!

Marla said...

Thanks for posting about this! Off to download! ;)

Basic Girl said...

Ohhhh, those look so amazing!! Very cool! And good luck tomorrow, I'll be thinking of you and sending good vibes...but I have a feeling you won't even need them ;)!!

Andrea said...

I so love photography! And, your little nephew is so adorable, makes me want to kiss those little cheeks :) I'm sure you enjoy him!!!

Also, thank you SO much for your thoughts and the words of wisdom regarding "drawing the line with family and friends". It's nice to know that someone else has the issue of MIL wanting to "know everything". I know my MIL means well, but this is just entirely too personal and frankly its very emotional. Perhaps I will just tell her that I love her, but I'm just too emotional to discuss it.

HUGS and know that I think of you all the time Jennifer. I pray for you and know that any birthmother would be blessed to know you and fill your arms.

Much Love
Andrea

Vanessa @ See Vanessa Craft said...

I love playing around in photoshop!

Samantha said...

What is this "actions" you speak of? Never heard of it.

And, for the record, your unretouched photo is already pretty amazing. :)

T said...

Absolutely beautiful! I wish I was that talented!!

Angela said...

I am getting excited for you. Hope all gets done on Weds that can be done to save you time! I know you're anxious to get things started! Yay! Love the pics of the 2 of you! Have a happy summer! And I'll try to stay updated.

Saige said...

The makeover is fantastic. I LOVE the header!

I wish I knew more about Photoshop. I'm trying to learn, and luckily, I work closely with a graphic artist who can give me tips and hints when I need them.

Have fun with the photos!

Patricia said...

Awesome! Can't wait too see more photos!

I love the blog makeover too!

Julie said...

Uh oh..you've been bit by the action bug. I love Rita's and PW's actions. That sun kissed action is one of my faves. Have you tried Rita's Vintage Butterscotch. It's my favorite!!
Your photos look lovely!!

prashant said...

LOVE the pics that you posted yesterday!
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