The campaign lead needs a poster-style landing mock in two hours that mixes a product still, a hero type lockup and an…
Start by identifying the most noticeable issues that distract from the main subject, like dust or scratches. Focus on blemishes that draw attention, such as large spots or distracting background elements, especially for press photos. Less obvious flaws, like minor paint flecks, can wait or be left untouched if they add texture.
Over-retouching happens when skin looks unnaturally smooth or features lose their natural texture. For press images, it's best to subtly soften skin tone without erasing all texture. Maintain details like pores or fine lines to keep the personality of the subject, especially if the photo’s tactile feel matters.
Use adjustment layers like 'Curves' or 'Selective Color' to correct flaws without flattening textures. Apply layer masks to target specific areas, and save your work with non-destructive techniques. This way, you can fix dust, background, or skin issues while preserving the tactile feel.
The biggest mistake is applying the same fix across all images without considering differences. For example, removing a distracting background element in one photo might not be needed in another. Tailor your retouching to each image’s unique flaws to avoid overdoing it.
A photographer or retoucher typically makes those choices, especially during the editing phase, to keep the image natural but polished. A photo editor might also review these decisions before final approval.
AI tools can quickly remove dust or smooth skin, saving time. However, they may also remove fine details or create an unnatural look. Always review AI edits closely and make manual adjustments to keep the image authentic.
Selective retouching targets specific flaws like dust, background distractions, or skin imperfections, often using masks or local adjustments. General cleanup might involve broader corrections, such as leveling exposure or cropping, which affect the entire image.