If you’ve ever wanted to dive deep into the entire process of editing a photo—from raw files to final stylization—this video is a must-watch. It’s a thorough tutorial that walks you through every step, and trust me, it’s packed with insights.

James’s latest video takes us through his editing workflow, transforming a very challenging interior shot into a beautifully balanced final image. Everything is covered here: HDR blending, panoramic stitching, and fine-tuning details using Lightroom, Photoshop, and Luminar Neo. It’s a wonderful look into James’s post-processing and, more importantly, his thought process when editing.

The scene James has selected to work with is not an easy one by any means—a stunning synagogue in Târgu Mureș, Romania, filled with deep shadows and bright natural light streaming through the upper windows. James starts by selecting the best exposures to blend together and even goes as far as carefully comparing the merging processes in Lightroom and Luminar Neo to see which delivers the most realistic result.

Once the HDR base is set, James moves on to panoramic stitching. This step ensures the entire scene is perfectly aligned, avoiding distortion and preserving perspective. He then adjusts the crop and alignment to create a clean, symmetrical composition before diving into more intricate edits.

In Photoshop, James shapes the light using contrast adjustments and radial filters to draw attention to key architectural elements, like the synagogue’s wonderful ceiling. He meticulously tweaks lighting, shadows, and exposure to create a seamless, captivating image. Luminar Neo’s AI tools also come into play here, enhancing fine details and textures while keeping everything looking natural.

One of the biggest takeaways from James’s process is the importance of experimentation. He doesn’t rely on just one tool or technique—instead, he tests different software to see what works best for each specific image. It’s a great reminder that editing is a dynamic process, and choosing the right tools can make all the difference.

If you’re looking to level up your editing skills, this video is a goldmine of practical tips. From handling tricky lighting and blending exposures to adding those finishing touches that make an image pop, James’s workflow is both inspiring and educational. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, there’s something here for everyone.