While going through my Lightroom library as part of an unplanned and unorganized effort to revisit old images, I came across this photo I originally edited in black and white. I had shared it on Instagram a few years ago, during a phase when I was exploring monochrome treatments for my street photography.
I re-edited the photo, this time in color, enhancing the tones and saturation, particularly the reds and yellows, which I always enjoy highlighting in my urban photography. These vibrant tones add energy and warmth to the scene, drawing attention to the details I love to capture in city life.
If you’re wondering why the caption might seem inaccurate, specifically regarding the jeepney route displayed on the side, it’s because the jeepney is actually operating outside its designated route. For this updated version, I also adjusted the crop to reveal a bit more of the out-of-focus background. For those who know the area, you’ll recognize parts of the facade of Robinson’s Manila.
This is the originally edit I did and that was shared on my Instagram in July of 2017. Unfortunately, I no longer have the RAW file because at the time, I was experimenting with Lightroom Mobile and would upload photos directly from my camera using the Sony app. It was an exciting phase of mobile editing, but it also meant some original files weren’t properly backed up.
I enjoy revisiting and re-editing photos I took years ago, comparing the original versions with new interpretations. It’s always interesting to see how my editing choices have evolved over time. The colors I emphasize, the way I crop, and the overall mood I aim for often shifts as my skills grow and my perspective changes.
Looking at both versions side by side reveals more than just technical differences. It reflects my state of mind during each period, including what I was drawn to creatively, the tools I preferred, and the kind of feeling I wanted the image to convey. These edits serve as a visual timeline that highlights how both my approach and aesthetic sensibilities have developed through the years.