Straighten

Term from Photography Editing industry explained for recruiters

Straightening is a fundamental photo editing technique used to correct tilted or crooked images. When photographers mention they can "straighten" photos, it means they know how to fix images where horizons or vertical lines aren't perfectly level - like when a building appears to be leaning or a horizon line isn't flat. This is a basic but crucial skill in photo editing, similar to adjusting brightness or cropping. Most photo editing software like Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, or even basic phone apps include straightening tools.

Examples in Resumes

Processed over 1000 real estate photos, including Straightening architectural elements

Developed workflow to efficiently Straighten and level horizon lines in landscape photography

Applied Straightening techniques to correct perspective in product photography

Typical job title: "Photo Editors"

Also try searching for:

Photo Retoucher Digital Image Editor Photography Post-Production Specialist Photo Enhancement Specialist Image Processing Specialist

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle straightening multiple architectural photos with different perspective challenges?

Expected Answer: A senior editor should discuss batch processing techniques, explain how to maintain consistency across a series, and mention tools for handling complex perspective corrections while preserving image quality.

Q: What's your approach to training junior editors in straightening techniques?

Expected Answer: Should discuss creating guidelines, explaining the importance of natural-looking results, and methods for quality checking work while maintaining efficiency.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you determine when an image needs straightening?

Expected Answer: Should explain using visual references like horizons, buildings, or vertical lines, and discuss tools like grid overlays to ensure accuracy.

Q: What's your process for straightening product photos while maintaining proper proportions?

Expected Answer: Should describe techniques for preserving product dimensions, using guidelines, and ensuring consistent results across multiple products.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What basic tools do you use for straightening photos?

Expected Answer: Should be able to name common straightening tools in popular editing software and explain basic process of aligning horizons.

Q: How do you ensure you don't lose important parts of the image when straightening?

Expected Answer: Should understand concept of cropping that occurs with straightening and how to account for it when shooting or editing.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-1 years)

  • Basic photo straightening
  • Using grid overlays
  • Simple horizon corrections
  • Basic editing software knowledge

Mid (1-3 years)

  • Efficient batch straightening
  • Complex perspective corrections
  • Multiple image consistency
  • Advanced editing tool usage

Senior (3+ years)

  • Training and quality control
  • Complex architectural straightening
  • Workflow optimization
  • Client requirement management

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Unable to identify when images need straightening
  • Doesn't understand basic composition principles
  • No experience with professional editing software
  • Poor attention to detail