Editing Whale Photos: Tips for Arctic Light

Editing Whale Photos from Tromsø

Arctic light requires special attention in post-processing. Here’s how to make your whale photos shine.

Common Challenges

1. Blue color cast - Polar night creates very blue images
2. Low light noise - High ISO creates grain
3. Flat contrast - Overcast skies lack punch
4. Spray/haze - Salt spray on lens affects clarity

Basic Editing Workflow

Step 1: White Balance

• Arctic photos often need warming
• Don’t over-correct—blue hour should still feel blue
• Auto white balance often too warm

Step 2: Exposure

• Lift shadows to reveal whale details
• Protect highlights in sky/water

Step 3: Contrast & Clarity

• Add contrast for punch
• Clarity helps whale details
• Dehaze tool for spray/mist

Step 4: Noise Reduction

• Use judiciously at high ISO shots
• Balance detail vs. smoothness

Arctic-Specific Tips

Blue Hour Enhancement:

• Embrace the blue, don’t fight it
• Add subtle warmth to whale subjects
• Boost blues in sky for drama

Snow/Ice Scenes:

• Watch for clipped whites
• Use graduated filters on sky

Software Recommendations

• Lightroom - Best for batch processing
• Photoshop - Complex edits
• Luminar - AI-powered easy editing
• Mobile - Snapseed, Lightroom Mobile

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