How You Can Use a Histogram
Have you heard the term 'histogram' but weren't really sure how to use it? Very early in my photography journey, I was introduced to a graph called a histogram. A histogram shows the amount of lights and darks in an image, and all the tones in-between. The height of the data on the graph does not have much importance. It's the width of the data that we want to look at. On the left side live the darkest tones, while on the right are the brightest tones. Each side of the graph is referred to as a wall. If the data on either side of the graph 'climbs the walls', you have lost data in those areas. This is referred to as 'clipping' in the darks, and 'blow-outs' in the highlights.
Where to Find the Histogram
On most cameras a histogram can be found by pressing the 'info' button while viewing an image on the back of your camera. If the data in the histogram for your image is not reaching to each side, you can adjust your settings to achieve a more balanced exposure. It can also be viewed 'live' while in live-view. Using the histogram while you are shooting is a great way to assure good exposure. So, check your owner's manual to see how to access it in your camera.
Editing with the Histogram
The histogram can also be used while editing an image in Lightroom or Photoshop. In Lightroom, it is found in the upper right side at the top of the panel column. In the video below, I demonstrate how to use the histogram as a guide while editing an image. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7V4eYyVsKEA&t=65s[/embed] 
You can find more editing tutorials on my YouTube channel Nadeen Flynn, or here in various blog posts including:Two Edits, One ImageUnderexposed Tulips
*****
Be sure to sign up for my newsletter to receive your FREE gifts! My fabulous mini guide about light in photography - Making Friends with Light, and my FREE popular Tranquil Presets.
*****
Please CONTACT ME at nadeen@nadeenflynn.com with any questions or to schedule your learning session.
Nadeen Flynn is a published, award winning northern California fine art photographer. Living in the greater Sacramento area, she specializes in fine art landscape and still life photography. Nadeen’s style is authentic, fresh and personality-driven. She offers in-person workshops, hourly lessons, and mentoring. While currently living in rural northern California with her husband and a couple thousand walnut trees, she posts regularly to Instagram.
Locations include Yuba City/Marysville, East Nicolaus, Wheatland, Lincoln, Woodland, Roseville, Rocklin, and Sacramento areas.
(530) 633-7575