Hey guys, Andy here. It’s been a while since I heard the phrase, some years actually, so I was somewhat taken aback when I recently heard the words, ‘Fix it in post.’ To be fair, the phrase is an uncommon utterance which is maybe why it stands out to me when I hear it.
For those who have never come across the phrase ‘Fix it in post’, in regards to photography, means there is an issue with a photograph and rather than spend time there and then to correct it, the problem will be rectified in post production.
I do my best to ensure my photography is as good ‘in camera’ as it can be; that is to say when I am taking a photograph, I work to ensure I take as best an image as I can. I appreciate there are times when this is not possible; I may be against the clock and there simply may not be time to correct the issue. Or the issue may be so minor that it will be easier and quicker to rectify the problem in post production rather than spend time fussing over a detail during a photo shoot.
There are other occasions where I find myself in a setup, often designed or organised by a layperson with no photographic or lighting experience, where there is nothing I can do and where I can not fix it in post. It is akin to being given rotten ingredients and expected to prepare and cook a meal; if the underlying photographic basics of light, ISO, f/stop and shutter speed are poor or compromised, then there is little I can do.
However I find my professional definition of ‘Fix it in post’ (as offered above) does not sync with that of a non visual professional. When expressed by a layperson I find the phrase has a very different meaning. The phrase generally means one of three things (and sometimes a combination of);
1. Hurry up; I do not have the time or patience with photography, so do not spend time correcting any issues now, sort it out later.
2. I have no idea about photography but pop culture informs me that anything and everything can be achieved with technology.
3. I do not know you, I have no relationship with you and, as such, I do not trust your opinion that you can solve the issue now.
It’s not possible to reason with an unreasonable person and trying to answer these opinions is generally fruitless and a waste of time. Last time I tried to explain to someone why the image they wanted me to take would not work, I was told in no uncertain terms to hurry up.
Am I being precious? Am I being pretentious? Probably a bit of both in equal measure; however if you’re telling me to ‘Fix it in post’ the chances are you are ignoring my advice and you think you know better. And if this is the case you have little to no respect for what I do and consequently I find myself of the opinion that you are wasting my time as I prefer to spend my time editing images rather than fixing avoidable mistakes incurred by other people.
I find ‘Fix it in post’ is generally uttered by people I have no relationship with and who do not know me (and vice versa). Perhaps they have low standards when it comes to photography and any old snap will suffice. Or perhaps they really do think technology can turn shit into gold. A word of caution; it can’t.
andybarnham
I am a portrait photographer based in Cheltenham, UK. Born in Hong Kong to a Chinese mum and British dad, I had an international upbringing while I educated in the UK. I started photography as a hobby while serving as an officer in the British Army.
After my service I turned this passion into a career and became immersed in London's sartorial scene. I am now focusing my camera on portraiture and using this eye for detail which was refined over ten years. As a former Royal Artillery officer it is only fitting I shoot with a Canon camera.
