Resources for Other Photographers
I’m often asked which actions and presets I use when editing. I wish there were a simple answer, but my workflow is probably more complicated than it needs to be.
I typically make my global adjustments in Lightroom, apply one of the presets below, and then complete the final edit in Photoshop. It is definitely a process.
Where I can help, I want to help. So I’m making the custom presets I’ve created over the years available free of charge.
I do want to set realistic expectations. These are not one-click presets that will instantly transform every image. They were created as starting points, with the expectation that additional work would be done in Photoshop. Each preset is also tied to a particular shooting style and type of image.
For example, when I know a session will include a lot of soft colors and pastels, I will often use my Matchbook Flint preset and intentionally underexpose by about half a stop. The preset is designed to compensate for that and help create the final look I want.
Eventually, I hope to release my photoshop actions as well. More on that later
PRESET 1: Matchbook Flint Final
I don’t use Matchbook as much as I used to. I’ve gone through different phases of shooting styles. For matchbook to really get the signature look I like, your subject needs to be spring or summer colored (Vibrant, contrasty). When done right, it will “pastel” out those rich colors. Adjust warmth after to your liking.
A warm, soft, film-inspired preset with lifted shadows, controlled highlights, and creamy skin tones. It adds noticeable brightness, so it works especially well on images that are about ½ to 1 stop underexposed.
Best for: backlit portraits, seniors, couples, lifestyle sessions, window-light boudoir, and golden hour.
PRESET 2: Poppy Pliers
This is the base of probably 90% of the images I take. I almost always tone down the greens and saturation before taking the image into photoshop. Does well on dull green fields and turf. Natural grass can turn neon green -so be mindful of that. Fun fact – This actual preset started its life as a wedding preset. Does well crushing whites and blacks too. Give it a try!
A bright, crisp, colorful preset designed to make strong colors feel lively without losing overall polish. Reds, oranges, purples, and magentas receive extra presence, which gives the image energy.
Best for: sports, school events, colorful clothing, children, fall color, festivals, and upbeat outdoor portraits.
PRESET 3: Spruce Knob v4
Spruce Knob and Honey Suckle are very close. Greens inspired by the “olden” film days. Spruce is lighter, less punchy than honey suckle. I usually add a tad of warmth after running the preset.
A soft, muted outdoor preset with lower contrast, gentler detail, and restrained color. It keeps greens and yellows believable while giving the whole image a calmer, slightly earthy feel.
Best for: mountain portraits, forests, overcast days, rustic sessions, neutral clothing, and documentary-style outdoor work.
Fall Olive 5
A deeper, moodier preset with olive greens, warm earth tones, stronger contrast, grain, and a subtle vignette. It gives outdoor images a rich fall character even when some green remains in the scene.
Best for: autumn portraits, wooded locations, rustic weddings, hunting or outdoor lifestyle images, and dramatic environmental portraits.
Honeysuckle Air
A clean, bright outdoor preset that makes greens and yellows lighter, softer, and less distracting. It keeps the image polished and crisp while helping the subject stand apart from grass and foliage.
Best for: spring and summer portraits, fields, gardens, seniors, families, and light-colored clothing.
Honeysuckle Air + Exposure
A brighter version of Honeysuckle Air with added exposure and stronger shadow recovery. It is designed for darker outdoor files where the face or subject needs more lift.
Best for: shaded faces, backlit portraits, cloudy days, tree cover, and images about ½ to 1 stop underexposed.
Spruce Knob vs. Honeysuckle Air
Spruce Knob is softer, more muted, and more natural overall. It gently calms the whole image.
Honeysuckle Air is brighter, cleaner, and more polished. It changes greens and yellows more strongly to create a lighter, airier background.