MEMBERS’ EVENING: Photographers’ Question Time

Camera Club Q&A Summary of Discussion held 10 October 2025

The event was held without visual aids! Sharon did a great job hosting the event. Here are some of the points raised with links added.

1. In-Camera Techniques

• Blending Images in Camera:
  Discussion on in-camera multiple exposures and the ability to import images into the camera before blending. Some newer cameras may be able to do this but may not be possible with edited images.
  
• Useful for creative composites and experimentation.
  

2. Printing and Paper Choices

• Paper Types:
  Comparison between glossy and matte papers, including base colour considerations.
  
  • Glossy papers often make colours “zing” and sharpen edges.
    
  • Matte papers can suit softer or more subdued images.
    
• Soft Proofing:
  Recommended for previewing how prints will appear on different papers.
  
• Mount Considerations:
  The mount colour and texture can affect perceived contrast and colour.
  
• Suggestion:
  Invite paper manufacturers for demonstrations and sample viewing.
  

Follow-up links:

• Hahnemühle Fine Art Paper Guide
  
• Adobe Soft Proofing Guide
  

3. Plugins and Software Tools

• Plugins Mentioned:
  
  • Nik Collection
    
  • Topaz Labs (particularly DeNoise and Sharpen)
    
  • Luminar Neo
    
  • Boris FX
    
• Discussion on luminosity masks (recommended resource: Sean Bagshaw on YouTube).
  
• Debate on AI-assisted tools (e.g. DeNoise) — may generate additional content, potentially breaching competition rules, especially in wildlife photography.
  

Follow-up links:

• Sean Bagshaw Luminosity Masks Tutorials
  
• Topaz Labs Official Tutorials
  
• Nik Collection Overview (DxO)
  
• Boris FX Photo Plugins
  

4. Lightroom Techniques and Workflow

• Guided Transformation Tool:
  Explained by Sharon — used to correct keystone distortion (tilted buildings, converging lines).
  
• Develop Module Order:
  Lightroom is non-destructive, so editing order is flexible.
  Discussion on whether DeNoise should occur before or after Sharpening — general consensus: no significant difference.
  (Right-click > Customize Develop Panel to reorder tools.)
  
• White Balance:
  Use the eyedropper tool on a neutral white or grey area in the image.
  
• Radial Gradient Tool:
  Very effective for controlling hotspots or local exposure.
  
• Selection Tools:
  Lightroom’s AI-powered Masking tools can now target specific elements (sky, subject, background, etc.).
  

Follow-up links:

• Adobe Lightroom Guided Upright (Perspective Correction)
  
• Lightroom Masking Tools Overview
  

5. Photoshop Tips

• Adding Keylines:
  Increase canvas size by ~10 pixels (e.g., Image → Canvas Size), set background to desired border colour.
  
• Printing:
  Discussion comparing printing from Lightroom vs Photoshop.
  
  • Some find Lightroom offers more consistent for output.
    
  • Others prefer Photoshop for fine control and soft proofing options.
    

Follow-up links:

• Printing from Lightroom Classic
  
• Printing from Photoshop