Module 3: Post-production

This module is all about post-production. You’ll explore key software, including Lightroom, Photoshop, and Capture One, while also gaining an understanding of essential technical concepts such as file size, DPI/PPI, and the hardware that supports a smooth workflow. We also cover practical storage and backup solutions, so your work stays secure and future-ready.

The module then guides you through Lightroom Classic, focusing on how to set up your catalogue, organise files, import images, and navigate the Library and Develop modules. You’ll learn how to build collections, manage metadata, and use tools such as Grid View, Compare, Survey, Quick Develop, and Virtual Copies to streamline your image management, even with large photo libraries.

Finally, you’ll move into the creative heart of editing. Through Lightroom and Photoshop, you’ll work with tone, colour, masks, gradients, sharpening, noise reduction, lens corrections, presets, and retouching tools to elevate your images with intention. By the end, you’ll have a clear, organised editing workflow and the skills to bring your photographs to a polished, professional finish.

This module is part of the Diploma of Photography and Digital Imaging (CUA50925) and is designed to prepare you for professional practice by integrating post-production into your photography workflow.

Why This Module Matters

This module introduces you to the digital darkroom where images are shaped, enhanced, and made ready for delivery. You’ll work through the core software tools used across the industry, gain clarity on a range of techniques, processes and practical methods that help ensure consistency between screen and print. From sharpening and tonal control to calibration and file preparation, this module develops the technical assurance required to produce reliably high-quality images for any medium.

• Build practical editing skills across major software so you can refine images to a professional standard.
• Establish a fast, organised workflow through catalogue setup, metadata, presets, and batch processing.
• Learn professional output through export methods and advanced retouching techniques.
• Strengthen your technical understanding of file sizes, DPI/PPI, hardware, and storage to protect image quality.

What You’ll Learn

• Post-Production Principles
  Learn how to operate Lightroom, Photoshop, Capture One, and related tools.
• File Management
  How resolution, file size, hardware, and storage systems affect your image and workflow.
• Software Techniques & Processes
  Organisation through catalogs, metadata, presets, and batch-processing methods.
• Post-Production Practice
  Retouching, colour grading, sharpening, and preparing files for print or web output.

What You’ll Do

• Workflow In Post-Production
  Build a clear, efficient, and consistent approach to your post-production workflow.
• Retouching Skills & Editing Methods
  Gain practical skills across a wide range of editing and retouching techniques.
• Software Expertise
  Experiment with the key tools in Lightroom, Photoshop, Camera Raw and more.
• Expand Your Creative Possibilities
  Explore advanced editing and image-manipulation methods through specific tasks.

Module Outcomes

By completing Module 3, you will:

• Develop a strong and cohesive workflow in your post-production processes.
• Learn a range of post-production techniques involving several aspects of photography.
• Understand the most useful tools in Lightroom, Photoshop, Camera Raw and more.
• Push your post-production game to its limits while experimenting with image manipulation techniques.

Guidance Every Step of the Way

Our expert photography tutors will support you throughout Module 3. They’ll help you refine your understanding of post-production and demystify the process through effective techniques and practical methods. With guidance and feedback, you’ll leave this module ready to create polished and visually striking images.