Questioning my ability to edit photos

[Glycerin19]

In the past I've used many different versions of Photoshop, most recently working in Elements 2.0 and I just got CS2. I haven't played with it yet but I'm sure I'll have similar issues when I do. I'm just not sure if I'm reaching the full potential in my pictures with my editing. I always feel like it's just not as crisp or vibrant as I'd like. Honestly I'd like to not do any editing at all but I'm not that good. I'm not even sure what I'm trying to ask here. I guess if I put up a picture, can someone who is a pro at photo editing give it a try and then I can compare it to what I did. I've been told that mine look great but I see photographs that are brilliant and I don't see that in mine.

[mjs1973]

Hey Glycerin,

You are more than welcome to post some images, and ask for advice on how to edit them. That's what the Critique forum is all about. When you post something in the Crituque forum, just make sure to tell everyone that that is what you're looking for. We are not suppose to edit and repost other peoples images without asking them first, but if you give them the OK to do it, I'm sure you will get some good advice. Another thing I would recomend that you do is pick up Scott Kelby's book, Photoshop CS2 for Digital Photographers. A very good book, and it's writen so anyone can follow along.

[ken1953]

Hi Glycerin...I too went from PSE 2 to CS2...I actually found that it wasn't too bad of a transition. But, like you, I really doubt my ability to adjust my photos. But, since joining PR a year ago, everyone here has really helped my improve, both my photography, and my ability to make adjustments. A warning, sometimes you'll get a critique or adjustment that you don't understand or that is a bit more than what you were looking for. Don't hesitate to ask for further information. A prime example is when someone made an "exposure" adjustment to a photo of mine. I had no idea how to do that and when I asked, it was graciously explained to me.
I also recommend that you always attempt an adjustment, then post the adjustment and the original. This will get you critiques on how well you are doing. Notice in my signature the "Feel Free" icon. This is one way to let people know that it is ok to edit your posts. Otherwords, like Michael said, we are not supposed to make adjustments. I'm a visual person and sometimes don't understand what people are telling me unless they also show me.
Good luck and I look forward to seeing some of your posts and to watching your growth as a photographer.
Ken

[Asylum Steve]

Honestly I'd like to not do any editing at all but I'm not that good...

I think I know what you mean here, but, truth is there is no automatic connection between the skill level of a shooter (or lack thereof) and how much post-processing you do in photoshop.

Nor is there such a thing as a shot "out of the camera" that is perfect as is and needs no editing whatsoever. It's a misconception...

Even if it's just the basic stuff such as slight sharpening and color correction or a bit of a crop or retouch, every frame I shoot (as a pro) goes through some editing.

But again, I think I know what you're trying to say: that the better you are at taking the original shot, hopefully the less you have to "mess" with it on a computer to get it to look good.

That I will agree with...

Anyway, feel free to post an original, and some of us may see what we can do...

[Glycerin19]

But again, I think I know what you're trying to say: that the better you are at taking the original shot, hopefully the less you have to "mess" with it on a computer to get it to look good.

Yeah exactly. I can drive myself batty trying to get the perfect image.

I'll definitely take all the advice above and see if I can't post some before and afters to get some second opinions. I think part of it is that I need a new monitor but I need to learn how to use CS2 and try to learn from everyone here what makes a great photograph.
Thanks guys!