How much is too much PP

[Chantal]

I bet this question was asked before but I was just wondering how much is too much post processing your images?

As for me I have CS4 but rarely use it. I don't do too much post process except increase the color, exposure, etc in Lighroom 2 to make my images pop a little and I'm done.

Would like to hear from other photographers since I'm still new to this.

[Steelsun]

It all depends on the purpose and audience to the image.

Light PP (like color correction, light sharpen, etc) is almost always OK.
Heavy PP (major blurs, pseudo HDR, etc) CAN be OK, if the client or end result demands it.

An example is wedding albums, there is frequently at least one image in there that has heavy PP on it, usually a dreamy or Orten effect, or selective blurring.

[S-Man]

Like Brian said, it depends on the client. Some glamour photogs use heavy skin processing and get that 'plastic' look because that's what the clients want/like.
I try to find a good balance between 'real' and 'plastic' for seniors and weddings.
I'd say the majority of clients love extra skin processing rather than less.

As for color effects, tints, textures and such, it depends on what 'style' you're trying to establish. Just stay away from selective color :)

[Chantal]

Thanks Brian and Sam!

I'm looking to buy presets for Lightroom for weddings and kids portraits. Do you have any suggestions?

[dmora]

pick up a playboy... thats too much PP.

[MikkiStreak]

Originally Posted by Chantal

Thanks Brian and Sam!

I'm looking to buy presets for Lightroom for weddings and kids portraits. Do you have any suggestions?

Freebie that I use: 8 Epic Lightroom presets for weddings… | PresetsHeaven

As for ones to purchase----- buy Leslie's.... I use those and the freebies I listed above the most....

I bought the new presets from Totally Rad, but don't use them all that often.

I don't use a ton of presets for the most part.... I started with CS4 and use that more than LR because I'm more familiar with it...

[Chantal]

MikkieStreak, thanks so much! I just installed the presets from Presets Heaven and they are AWESOME!