What is the purpose of post-processing in digital photography?

Post-processing refers to the use of software to enhance or modify images after they have been captured. This can involve a wide range of techniques, such as adjusting brightness, contrast, and color balance, to improve the overall appearance of the photograph. Photographers can also apply filters, remove blemishes, crop images to improve composition, and even combine multiple images to create a composite photo.

While the other options touch on various aspects of managing photographs, they do not accurately convey the comprehensive nature of post-processing. Deleting unwanted images pertains to photo organization rather than enhancement. Developing film is a process associated with analog photography, which is separate from digital practices. Adjusting camera settings while shooting falls under the category of capturing the image rather than modifying it afterward. Thus, the focus on enhancing or altering images using software encapsulates the core purpose of post-processing in digital photography.