When preparing an image to edit, it’s best to think in terms of Global — applying an effect to the entire image — and Local changes — applying an effect to a selected part of an image. This concept can be used on almost any effect. For our tutorial, we will use Lightroom’s Dehaze effect to dramatically improve an image by removing haze on the entire image, then on parts of the image using an adjustment brush and graduated filter.
Global Change
Working inside the development module, select the Effects Panel. Drag the Dehaze slider to the right until the haze is removed on the majority of the image. Stop when you notice the effect is over processed on selected parts of the image. Move the slider back to the left to remove some of the effect. Take note which parts of the image still needs more of the effect.
Local Change
Select the Adjustment Brush by pressing keyboard shortcut K or by selecting the Adjustment Brush icon. From the Effects dropdown menu select Dehaze. Use keyboard shortcut left or right bracket key [ ] to increase or decrease the size of the brush. Paint in the Dehaze effect on areas of the image you feel needs more processing. You can increase or decrease the effect by adjusting the Dehaze slider.
Select the Graduated Filter by pressing keyboard shortcut M or by selecting the Graduated Filter icon. From the Effects dropdown menu select Dehaze. This tool will gradually apply the effect on the image when you click and dragging it over an area of the image. You can increase or decrease the effect by adjusting the Dehaze slider.
Applying the Concept in Your Editing Workflow
The concept of Global and Local changes can be used on a wide range of edits. Imagine adjusting exposure of an image. You can globally change the exposure for the entire image, then use an adjustment brush to apply exposure to only parts of the image. This concept also works with third party plugin — on1, Perfectly Clear, Topaz, NIK. Start with a global change to the entire image then mask or paint out the effect on selected parts of the image. If it a try on your next edit.
*Feature image © 2015 Vanelli
Vanelli is a photographer, educator and author based in Florida. Currently he shoots for Inside Lacrosse Magazine, teaches workshops, and writes for Photofocus. Click here for a list of Vanelli’s articles.
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Filed under: Adobe, Photography, Software, Technique & Tutorials Tagged: Adobe Lightroom, Global Change, Lightroom Dehaze, Lightroom LR, Local Change, Robert Vanelli, Vanelli, Workflow concept 
