Task: Turn a Grossly Under-Exposed Photo into a Magazine Cover
(While working against a looming press date)

In the days of analog photography, this image would have been a lost cause. It would have ended up in the outtake pile. But in today’s wonderful world of digital imaging, if a photo works compositionally and stylistically but technically misses the mark, Photoshop can save the day.

The Backstory
It’s ten days before the press date. The art director and editor are reviewing hundreds of images from a fashion shoot hoping to find the perfect cover image. It’s not looking good. Then among the outtakes, the art director discovers a grossly under-exposed frame. It’s the one he wants to turn into the magazine’s cover.

Could it be done? Well, one thing is for sure, nothing bonds everyone on the team more than a scenario like this. I would be the hero if I could save this image. There would be no scrambling—nor the expense—of pulling together another photo shoot just days before all materials were due at the printer. I was up for the challenge.

Photoshop Saves The Day
As the “After” photo reveals, the story has a happy ending. With some serious Photoshop work, the image was transformed. I was the superhero; we got a cover. Photoshop saves the day!

Client: Grace Ormonde Wedding Style magazine
Art Director: Miner Grillo

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