Why I Embrace Authentic and True-to-Life Photo Editing | Pittsburgh Photographers

As a Pittsburgh photographer, I love photographing families in their homes and capturing real-life moments as they unfold. This shapes not only how I take photos but also how I edit them.

In a world where filters, heavy editing, and even AI are now common, I take a more authentic approach to editing my photos. To stay true to the original scene, I like to make sure the final images reflect reality rather than an overly edited version of it.

Phrases like dark and moody, warm and golden, and light and airy are often used to describe a photographer’s editing style but if I had to describe mine, I’d say it’s natural, timeless, and true to life.

When it comes to editing, some styles can completely change the feel of a photo but I prefer to keep things minimal. Rather than drastically altering an image, I focus on subtle adjustments that enhance what’s already there by making minor adjustments to exposure, contrast, and color balance just enough to bring out the natural details.

While editing tools like Photoshop and Lightroom can do incredible things, I use them sparingly. I’ll remove small distractions if they take attention away from the subject, but my goal is never to manipulate a scene, but rather to keep it honest and real to life.

When it comes to skin retouching, I keep it minimal; mostly just softening baby acne, redness, or dry, flaky skin on infants. I believe in capturing people as they are, so if you’re looking for a photographer who will airbrush your skin to perfection or ‘take off a few pounds,’ that’s just not my style. My goal is to showcase the real, beautiful, and natural you.

Capturing Authenticity in Different Environments

While many photographers aim for a perfectly cohesive and consistent portfolio, I embrace the individuality of each home and let its unique character shine through in my photography. As a result, when you browse my portfolio, you’ll notice that no two sessions look exactly alike. Each one reflects the distinct style of the space it was captured in.

As an in-home photographer, I know that no two homes are the same and that’s exactly what makes each session unique. The color of the walls, the decor, the furniture style, and the clothing choices will all play a role in shaping how the final images will look.

A family dressed in white or neutral tones in a home with light, neutral walls and decor will create a very different look than a family surrounded by bold, colorful walls, vibrant decor, and bright clothing choices. For example, take a look at the two images below:

Lighting is a key element in setting the mood of a photograph. I shoot almost exclusively with natural light, using whatever is available in a home. The number and size of windows, along with the direction of the light, all play a role in shaping the feel of an image.

The weather on the day of the session also has a big impact. A typical gray, overcast day in Pittsburgh will create a much different atmosphere than a bright, sunny day when light is streaming through the windows.

This photo was taken in a beautiful, historic Pittsburgh home, typical of the Victorian and Romanesque Revival styles built between 1890 and 1910. Many of my clients live in these three-story brick homes, which, like townhomes, are closely spaced or connected. Their limited side windows can make lighting tricky, but after years of experience, I’ve learned to make the most of the natural light streaming through the large front window.

The Emotional Impact of Real-to-Life Photography

Authenticity in photography isn’t just about creating beautiful images, it’s about capturing real emotions. When a photo feels true to life, it’s easier to connect with the moment, almost like you’re right there. But when an image is overly edited, it can start to feel distant or artificial, taking away from the emotion it was meant to capture.

Sometimes, less is more. Subtle adjustments can make a photo timeless, while too many changes can take away from what makes it special in the first place.

By working with natural light, making subtle adjustments, and staying true to each scene, I aim to create photos that feel real and full of genuine emotion.

Staying true to life doesn’t mean skipping editing altogether, it just means using it to enhance rather than completely change an image. Trends will always come and go, but authenticity never goes out of style.

If you’re looking for a photographer who values real, honest storytelling and an editing style that reflects the beauty of real life, I’d love to work with you!

If you’re looking for a newborn or baby photographer in Pittsburgh,  please get in touch to inquire about a session! I’d love to plan a photo session for your new baby!

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All images by Mary Beth Miller Photography 

Mary Beth Miller Photography specializes in family and newborn photography in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania and many of the surrounding areas. Mary Beth has over fourteen years of experience photographing families, newborns and babies in Pittsburgh including the South Side, Shadyside, Squirrel Hill, Oakland, the North Shore and Northside.   Her style is very relaxed and natural and your family session will feel like a stress-free Sunday afternoon with your family!