SUMMARY
Wildlife photographer Chiara Talia outlines five editing mistakes that can make bird photos appear fake or AI-generated. These issues stem from post-processing rather than shooting technique. Common errors include over-cropping, which degrades detail; over-sharpening, creating a crunchy texture; and aggressive masking, leading to unnatural transitions and effects like the 'holy light effect.' Talia also addresses reducing background clarity to simulate bokeh and misapplying color tones, such as oversaturation or adding golden-hour warmth to overcast shots, which disrupt the natural look.
TAKEAWAYS
Over-cropping reduces detail and leads to softness.
Excessive sharpening and clarity adjustments create artificial textures and artifacts.
Aggressive masking can result in unnatural subject-background transitions.
Misapplied color grading, like oversaturation or incorrect warmth, makes photos look fake.