For photographers, a photograph is the first step in a workflow.
A workflow is a summary of the steps in a process. Most workflows are used to provide plans to workers who need guidance to complete projects. Imaging workflow is any orderly process that results in edited or optimized images, such as photographs, illustrations, or movie stills. In this type of workflow, these visual images are created and then transmitted in a series of processing steps within an organization. The Imaging Workflow can be used by photographers, art directors, advertisers, and any other professional who can benefit from developing a series of steps that can streamline processes related to working with images.
A workflow is a sequence of activities that has been carefully planned to make work easy and efficient.
When an imaging workflow is developed, it is designed to guide day-to-day operations. Professionals can automate workflow, which can reduce the chances of human error and provide clear guidelines for people in separate departments communicating with each other. At the same time, managers may find that as new software is introduced and new projects present unique challenges, the workflow may change and become more streamlined.
The imaging workflow usually starts with a source. For photographers, a photograph is the first step in a workflow. Digital cameras allow users to upload images directly into image manipulation programs. Artists who can paint or draw images can use scanners that digitize images into a program.
The next stages in an imaging workflow may include manipulating an image. This can be done by a photographer or artist or an editor. A user may need to crop an image to exclude irrelevant background elements. The removal of blemishes and other image imperfections can also occur at this stage. The user can also make color, saturation and lighting adjustments at this stage of the process.
In industries like advertising, an artist or editor may pass an image to a designer. A designer is responsible for deciding how an image is used. If an image is part of a larger ad, you can determine how to add text or frame an image. It’s also common for a designer to change colors and perform functions like retouching, which can help make an image look cleaner.
An important part of the imaging workflow is the type of software used. Hobbyist artists and photographers may find that basic image manipulation programs are sufficient to clean up a photograph and achieve basic effects. Professionals working in industries like graphic design and event photography may need to incorporate several different programs into their workflow. Some types of software may provide the best color correction capabilities, while other types may be better at sharpening images.