What makes a photo look professional?

Consistent editing, intentional lighting, clean composition, and a clear subject.

Can editing make amateur photos look professional?

Good editing helps, but cannot fix poor capture. Focus on getting it right in camera.

There is a distinct difference between amateur and professional photos. Here are the five most common culprits:

Amateur portfolios often look like they were edited by five different people. Professional work has a consistent, signature look.

Fix: Develop and stick to a consistent editing style.

Amateurs shoot in any light. Professionals understand and manipulate light deliberately.

Fix: Learn to see light before you shoot.

Amateur photos often have distracting backgrounds and poor subject placement.

Fix: Simplify. Every element should serve the image.

Using wide lenses for portraits or telephoto for environments creates unflattering results.

Fix: Match your lens to your subject and intent.

Amateur photos often leave viewers asking "what am I supposed to look at?"

Fix: Every photo needs a clear subject and purpose.