Topaz Labs Plugins

When I was starting my journey into photography and was devouring as much information as I could find. I was reading books, scouring the internet and exploring other photographer’s work via Google Plus. I was also posting to as many photography themes on G+ as interested me. I was still using my little Sony P&S camera while still learning how to create images like those I was viewing online.

Delta Lake Knoll – Original
Olympus OM-D E-M1, M. Zuiko 12-40mm f/2.8, 1/125s, 24mm, f/11, ISO 200

On a whim I entered a photography contest where the prize was some software to use with Lightroom/Photoshop. It was the Topaz Labs plugins and fortunate for me the contest did not involve having to post an image. I was lucky enough to be one of the two winners and have maintained the software, using it when necessary, since late in 2011.

Delta Lake Knoll – Glow
Olympus OM-D E-M1, M. Zuiko 12-40mm f/2.8, 1/125s, 24mm, f/11, ISO 200

There were times while using the software where I might have gone a little overboard with my processing. I am sure I used it as a crutch when I did not manage to bring home the image I wanted but was able to manipulate an OK image to make a posting. I believe I have struck the right balance with my processing and have learned how to create the image that is in my head when I press the shutter.

Delta Lake Knoll – Simplify
Olympus OM-D E-M1, M. Zuiko 12-40mm f/2.8, 1/125s, 24mm, f/11, ISO 200

My photography is not always about capturing a pixel perfect replica of the scene I am viewing while out exploring. Although that might have been my original thought as to what photography was suppose to be, I have learned to let my images be a release of creativity. I am going to use all the tools at my disposal to change what I have captured into what I see. Every person sees differently and I try to present images that allow you to see what I see.

Delta Lake Knoll – Impression
Olympus OM-D E-M1, M. Zuiko 12-40mm f/2.8, 1/125s, 24mm, f/11, ISO 200

So today I decided to present a few different views of the same scene that I have created using the Topaz Labs plugins. I generally use the software in a more subtle approach but I thought it would be fun to show what it is capable of creating.

Delta Lake Knoll – Texture Effects
Olympus OM-D E-M1, M. Zuiko 12-40mm f/2.8, 1/125s, 24mm, f/11, ISO 200