I like to think that shooting with a flat profile lies somewhere between a regular image and raw. It can increase dynamic range, allow for more control in post, and can really help with shooting video on a DSLR. One of the biggest reasons to divert from the standard picture style, is to flatten the image. However, they offer more profiles that you can download and install. The problem is that the profiles that came with the camera can be limiting. Canon’s set of six profile pictures, for example, doesn’t leave you with a lot of room to experiment. Some people shoot in the standard profile, but there are others that may be better suited to the shot you’re trying to take. Why waste the opportunity?Ī Picture Profile, or Picture Style, is how the camera treats color in your shot. I was surprised to find out that some photographers didn’t know that they can download extra picture profiles and install them.

If you’re not shooting raw images, selecting the right picture profile could be the difference between a decent image and an incredible one.