Everyone’s photo can be improved, even professional models. In this article, I describe my process for creating an image which is the best version of you. The trick to editing is that it shouldn’t be obvious. Editing, also known as “photoshopping or “retouching” is 50% of the process of creating a professional-quality image so every photo from my studio is edited before being shared with the client.
Retouching takes me between 10 minutes and 2 hours per photo depending on the work to be done. It’s done manually. I have tried a couple of AI editing tools but the results weren’t good, am sure the tech will improve but for now, it’s not good enough.
I tried a freelance retoucher who had rave reviews but I think he uses AI tools as the results looked fake to me. So I paid him as I guess he delivers to the standard other clients expect but then edited the images myself. For now, I do all my own retouching. A good retoucher is an artist – it’s a highly-skilled job.
This is the basic 10-minute process – some images will require considerably more time.
The first stage is getting the image to the right place in terms of its overall look using a program called Capture One. I’ll be adjusting the exposure, lightening or darkening the image. If bright areas or shadows are too light or dark I’ll adjust these. I check the colour balance is right, as the clothes you’re wearing and your surroundings can affect the overall colour tone. I also adjust the background, making it darker or lighter.
Then I convert the image for editing in Photoshop to work on the details in the image. I’ll be removing spots and skin blemishes. I make your eyes sparkle a little and clean your teeth if you’re smiling. If any areas within the image are too light or too dark, I’ll adjust these areas as well as the contrast. These tasks are all done on separate layers so if I don’t like an adjustment I can remove it without having to start again.
The unedited file is like a piece of sheet music – how you play that music is up to you. As a finishing touch, I put my own creative interpretation on the mood of the image which is guided by the shoot plan we’ve agreed.
Finally, I output the file (normally in colour but sometimes Black & White) to your gallery so you can view and download your photos. Retouching is a personal choice so I’ll do additional changes as requested. The photos in your gallery are available in high-resolution and web-resolution.