Summary
Chris’ tutorial focuses on a manual photo editing technique in On1 Photo RAW 2026 that avoids the use of AI tools, emphasizing a more hands-on approach to connecting with the image.
Chris demonstrates how to remove unwanted distractions using the Perfect Eraser tool, then proceeds to darken the overall image before selectively painting in light to emphasize specific areas. The process involves carefully adjusting brush settings like opacity and flow to gradually build exposure, allowing for subtle, natural-looking enhancements.
The tutorial also covers color adjustments using the Color Editor and applying split toning to complement the image’s orange and blue hues. The goal is to achieve a balanced, realistic photo with directed light and refined colors without relying on AI automation. Throughout, the importance of subtlety and control is stressed, making this technique suitable for landscape photography and beyond.
Key Insights
- Manual editing helps build a deeper connection with the image.
- Removing distractions is the first step; use the Perfect Eraser instead of AI.
- Darkening the overall image first allows for better control when painting light back in.
- Gradual adjustments with brush opacity and flow enable precise light sculpting.
- Lower opacity prevents one-click overexposure, allowing multiple builds of light.
- Flow controls how much adjustment is applied per brush stroke, akin to a fire hose nozzle.
- Vary brush size to match the area being edited for more natural results.
- Painting light on already-lit areas enhances natural contrast and depth.
- Color Editor tool allows fine-tuning specific hues to enhance fall foliage colors.
- Split toning complements complementary colors (e.g., blues and oranges) to unify the image color scheme.
Key Learning Points
- Avoiding AI tools can encourage more thoughtful and intentional editing.
- Removing larger distractions before smaller ones streamlines cleanup.
- Use the zoom (Z key) to avoid accidental erasing while cleaning the image.
- Decreasing global exposure before local light painting simplifies control.
- Adjust brush opacity to around 30-50% for gradual exposure buildup.
- Lower flow (20-30%) allows for more subtle, incremental brush strokes.
- Feathering at 100% maintains smooth edges in brush strokes.
- Regularly vary brush size to fit the subject or area you’re enhancing.
- Use the mask overlay (O key) to visualize areas affected by brush strokes.
- Utilize color-specific editing tools like the Color Editor or Enhancer for selective saturation and hue shifts.
Conclusion
Chris illustrates an effective, AI-free method for photo editing in On1 Photo RAW 2026 that prioritizes artistic control and subtlety.
By darkening the entire image first and carefully painting light back into selected areas, editors can guide viewers’ attention naturally. Coupled with precise color adjustments and split toning, this technique enhances images in a way that feels organic and polished.
While more time-consuming than AI-assisted methods, this approach fosters a more intimate connection with the image and offers fine control over every aspect of the final look, making it a valuable skill for photographers seeking a handcrafted aesthetic.