A device automatically segments an image into different regions and automatically adjusts perceived exposure-levels or other characteristics associated with each of the different regions, to produce pictures that exceed expectations for the type of optics and camera equipment being used and in some cases, the pictures even resemble other high-quality photography created using professional equipment and photo editing software. A machine-learned model is trained to automatically segment an image into distinct regions. The model outputs one or more masks that define the distinct regions. The mask(s) are refined using a guided filter or other technique to ensure that edges of the mask(s) conform to edges of objects depicted in the image. By applying the mask(s) to the image, the device can individually adjust respective characteristics of each of the different regions to produce a higher-quality picture of a scene.