Photo Retoucher

A photo retoucher aims to get a perfect final touch on the image without necessarily respecting complete resemblance with the original subject.In the early 1860’s photographs were being manipulated with and in their own way lost their innocence. Photographs in a way lost their innocence many years ago. This has almost become a norm in our world today.

Are you worried about not having enough education for this career? Well, don’t be. Basically, if you have a degree in photography or something equivalent to photography, you are set. You also need to have three years of experience with Photoshop under your belt to show that you understand the techniques. Experience with Photoshop actions is highly desirable. You must submit a resume as well as a portfolio of your work in order to be considered. The income for this career is around $75,000 but varies greatly depending on company, location, industry, experience and benefits.

Being a photo retoucher is fun but can be stressful. During a photo shoot you have to make sure everything is under control, backed up and ready for delivery. The photographer wants to make sure you are comfortable but also approve your work. Be ready for an early start to your day so you are able to set up your equipment before the photographer arrives. You want to make some room for privacy so the client does not see the unnecessary comments about them.

Photo retouching is a growing industry and will continue to grow with the new technology. People will always want to look perfect in pictures. Celebrities, especially in the fashion world, will always be held to higher standards in order to look “perfect”. Therefore photo retouching will always be needed.

Photo retouching is an art, yet it takes away from the original, untainted art in the photograph. However people desire the ability to make one’s self look flawless. People will go to great lengths to make themselves look like what they think is “perfect”. A photo retoucher can make this possible and get paid quite well for their skills.

By Jenna Reed