In this in-depth Photoshop tutorial, I will guide you through my specific workflow for post-processing waterfall images. This lesson represents an evolution of my most advanced techniques, enriched with new tools and methods to create a dramatic and evocative atmosphere.

What You Will Learn:

✅ How to transform inspiration into a concrete editing process
✅ Time blending to integrate different exposures and enhance water movement
✅ Advanced dodge & burn techniques to sculpt light and shadows
✅ Color grading and toning for a cinematic and immersive look
✅ Use of luminosity masks for selective control over the image
✅ Light enhancement and tone management to emphasize the three-dimensionality of the scene
✅ Use of plugins, Topaz Sharpener, and Nik Collection to refine details

Requirements:

The latest version of Photoshop is NOT required – the oldest compatible version is Photoshop CC 2013. An intermediate knowledge of Photoshop is required – this is NOT a beginner’s course.

Workflow Breakdown:

1. Finding Inspiration & Conceptualizing the Edit

Studying light and atmosphere for waterfall images
Selecting references from paintings, fantasy illustrations, and cinema

2. Preparing RAW Files & Initial Enhancements

Using Topaz Pure Raw for noise reduction and initial sharpening
Alternative: RAW processing with DxO PhotoLab
Aligning multiple exposures for time blending

3. Time Blending & Scene Optimization

Techniques for combining different exposures for smooth yet detailed water
Blending with layer masks and gradients for a natural merge

4. Dodge & Burn for Depth and Dimension

Manual dodge & burn with soft brushes to sculpt shapes
Using luminosity masks for non-destructive adjustments (TK9)
Separating subjects to create depth

5. Luminosity Masks for Targeted Adjustments

Selective control over highlights, midtones, and shadows
Enhancing texture and three-dimensionality

6. Color Grading & Toning for a Cinematic Look

Using gradient maps, selective color, and curves for a fantasy aesthetic
Simulating cinematic color palettes to enhance the mood

7. Creating Light & Enhancing Atmosphere

Adding volumetric light and sun rays
Painting light manually for a natural and painterly effect
Adjusting haze and glow for an immersive atmosphere

8. Final Touches & Exporting

Optimized sharpening for the web
Export settings to preserve quality

At the end of this tutorial, you will have a comprehensive understanding of how to transform a waterfall photograph into a dramatic and cinematic image using my advanced photo editing workflow.

Software and Plugins Used:

Adobe Photoshop CC2025 (or earlier compatible versions)
Adobe Bridge & ACR
DxO Nik Collection
Tony Kuyper TK9 Panel
(Many tools can be replaced with alternatives or older versions of Photoshop and plugins)