I really, really want to know how this photographer achieves such deep colors and flawless skin. I know it has a lot to do with great lighting and such. I just can't achieve this look. Please help. Thank you!



Here's a before and after photo that she posted.

Just in a JPEG: go into Curves and use a black and white point; then adjust color by curves and Color Balance. Then adjust exposure and mask out the dress if necessary.

The black and white points alone make a huge difference. Then it's a matter of coloring and slight exposure adjustment. Maybe you don't even need that and can do it all in Curves (after the B&W points).

Thanks!

Two differences to notice between your image and the two targets: In the latter, the model is surrounded by warm yellows, and one of them also has some hot red in it. I suspect that's part of "the look" you're after.

Your model is surrounded by more understated sienna and umber tones, which are much less vibrant than the yellows of the targets. So factor that into your expectations.

To what extent does this edit capture the look you're trying for?



EDIT: with a dash of color

Thanks! That's interesting how you made the belt red. It made the photo pop just a little more. But just to clarify, neither are my models. I didn't shoot either. Both photos are from the photographer who I am enamored by. Mostly the first image is what I am going for. The colors are so deep and vibrant.

Ah, I understand. Thanks for you help.

Google is selling NIK software bundle for a super rebated price now.
Buy it.

Using Viveza in that bundle you are able to individually adjust the chroma, brightness and hue of any hue/chroma/brightness of your image - to reasonable limits before looking crappy. A little goes a long way. 

There are plenty of tutorial videos online to learn how to use these plugins.

Give it a shot.

best wishes.

Photoshop or Capture NX can do the job!