Photo Retoucher Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the visually-driven era, the focus on photo retouchers has never been more significant.

As digital visuals continue to evolve, the demand for skilled individuals who can refine, enhance, and perfect our visual content grows stronger.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s really expected from a photo retoucher?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker looking to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the art of photo retouching,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable photo retoucher job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Photo Retoucher Duties and Responsibilities

Photo Retouchers use digital tools and software to correct imperfections and enhance the quality of photographs.

They work closely with photographers and digital artists to bring creative ideas to life.

Their daily duties and responsibilities include:

• Reviewing photos to identify areas that need correction or enhancement
• Using photo editing software and tools to adjust color, brightness, contrast, and other photographic elements
• Removing unwanted objects or blemishes from photographs
• Adjusting the size and orientation of photographs
• Retouching and manipulating images according to clients’ specifications
• Collaborating with photographers and artists to understand their vision and make necessary adjustments to photos
• Maintaining archives of images and digital files
• Keeping up to date with the latest trends and techniques in photo editing
• Ensuring that all edits and changes meet quality standards

 

Photo Retoucher Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a skilled Photo Retoucher to enhance our photographic images to the highest quality.

Your responsibilities will include removing unwanted elements, correcting colors, and enhancing images to achieve the desired outcome.

Our ideal candidate is a creative individual with a keen eye for detail, and a deep understanding of digital imaging and photo editing software.

Ultimately, your goal will be to ensure our final images are of top-notch quality, promoting our brand and engaging our audience.

 

Responsibilities

• Use photo-editing software and tools to manipulate images
• Review photos to determine which adjustments are needed
• Perform color corrections, repairs, and enhancements
• Remove unwanted elements from photographs
• Collaborate with the photography team to understand requirements and work on a creative solution
• Ensure all images are completed in a timely manner
• Maintain an organized and efficient workflow
• Keep up to date with new image editing technologies

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Photo Retoucher
• Proficiency in programs such as Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, and Capture One
• Strong portfolio demonstrating a keen eye for detail and understanding of photo retouching
• Ability to work under tight deadlines
• Excellent communication skills
• High level of creativity
• Degree in Photography, Visual Arts, Digital Media or related field is a plus

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Flexible work schedule
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Photo Retoucher
• Work Environment: This role is based in a studio setting with the potential for remote work depending on the project requirements.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Photography Team Lead or Creative Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $40,000 minimum to $70,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, portfolio, and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Photo Retoucher Do?

A Photo Retoucher is a professional often employed within the media, advertising, or photography industries.

They can also work as independent freelancers providing services to individuals and businesses.

Their primary role involves manipulating photographs using digital or traditional tools to improve their aesthetics or correct imperfections.

This typically includes tasks such as removing blemishes, adjusting lighting and color levels, or eliminating unwanted elements from the photograph.

Photo Retouchers work closely with photographers, art directors, and clients to understand the desired outcome of the final image.

They may often have to work on tight deadlines, especially in industries like fashion and advertising.

In addition to technical skills, Photo Retouchers need a keen eye for detail and an understanding of color theory, composition, and other elements of visual design.

They are often required to maintain the natural look of the photograph while enhancing its overall appeal.

Lastly, they may also be tasked with preparing images for print or digital publication, ensuring that they meet the specific format and resolution requirements.

They also often archive and manage digital image files, ensuring they are easily retrievable for future use.

 

Photo Retoucher Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Photo Retoucher should possess an array of skills and qualifications that include:

• Technical skills with photo editing software such as Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, or similar programs to enhance and manipulate images
• Artistic eye for aesthetics to ensure the final product adheres to the client’s vision and desired style
• Attention to detail and precision to make subtle alterations that improve the overall quality of an image without drastically altering its original appearance
• Strong visual skills to discern minor imperfections and areas of an image that require retouching
• Excellent time management skills to meet deadlines and handle multiple projects simultaneously
• Good communication skills to understand client requirements, suggest improvements, and discuss potential alterations
• Problem-solving abilities to tackle technical issues that may arise during the photo retouching process
• Knowledge of color theory and understanding of lighting, contrast, and color balance to ensure photos look natural and realistic

 

Photo Retoucher Experience Requirements

Entry-level photo retouchers might have 1 to 2 years of experience, usually gained through an internship or part-time role in a photography studio, advertising agency, or media company.

They would have gained hands-on experience using photo-editing software such as Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom.

Candidates with more than 2 years of experience would have developed their skills, often working in entry-level positions as Photo Editors or Graphic Designers.

They would have experience in handling various types of photo retouching tasks, from simple color corrections to complex photo manipulations and restorations.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience are typically considered senior retouchers.

They would have mastered the most advanced photo retouching techniques, and might have experience in managing photo retouching projects, coordinating with photographers, and training junior retouchers.

These individuals may be ready for a managerial position in a photo studio or creative department.

Regardless of the level of experience, a good eye for detail, creativity, technical proficiency, and a strong understanding of color theory and composition are essential skills for all photo retouchers.

 

Photo Retoucher Education and Training Requirements

Photo Retouchers usually hold a degree or diploma in photography, graphic design, or a related field.

Their education often includes courses in digital photography, graphic design, digital imaging, and photo manipulation.

Knowledge of specific software such as Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom and other photo editing software is essential.

In addition to formal education, many Photo Retouchers obtain practical experience through internships or entry-level positions to enhance their skills.

Though not always required, some Photo Retouchers may opt to pursue additional certifications in areas like digital imaging or photo editing to gain a competitive edge in the job market.

Advanced knowledge of color theory, visual effects, and lighting can also be beneficial in this role.

Continuous learning and staying updated with the latest editing techniques and software updates is crucial for success in this field.

 

Photo Retoucher Salary Expectations

A Photo Retoucher can expect to earn an average salary of $45,549 (USD) per year.

However, this amount may vary based on factors such as the retoucher’s level of experience, the complexity of the work, the location, and the company that they work for.

 

Photo Retoucher Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Photo Retoucher need?

A Photo Retoucher needs to have a good eye for detail and an artistic flair.

They should be proficient in using photo-editing software such as Adobe Photoshop.

Understanding of color theory, composition, and lighting is crucial.

They should also possess good communication skills to understand the client’s requirements and deliver accordingly.

 

Do Photo Retouchers need a degree?

A degree is not mandatory for a Photo Retoucher, but a degree or a diploma in graphic design, photography, or a related field can be beneficial.

Most importantly, Photo Retouchers should have a solid portfolio that showcases their skills and creativity.

 

What should you look for in a Photo Retoucher resume?

The most important element to look for in a Photo Retoucher’s resume is their portfolio.

It should demonstrate their proficiency in photo-editing software and their aesthetic sensibility.

Also, look for experience in image manipulation, retouching and color correction.

Additional skills such as 3D modeling and digital painting can also be beneficial.

 

What qualities make a good Photo Retoucher?

A good Photo Retoucher should have keen attention to detail, a strong sense of aesthetics, and the ability to work under tight deadlines.

They need to be proficient in using photo editing software and have a good understanding of color theory and composition.

Creativity and problem-solving skills are also important, as they may need to find innovative solutions to enhance or correct images.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Photo Retoucher?

Finding a skilled Photo Retoucher can be challenging due to the specialized nature of the job.

An ideal candidate will not only have proficiency in photo editing software but also a creative eye and a strong sense of aesthetics.

It’s important to provide a clear job description that outlines the skills and experience you are looking for, and to carefully review portfolios to gauge a candidate’s abilities.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve illuminated the shadows of what it truly means to be a photo retoucher.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about editing images.

It’s about shaping the visual narrative, one pixel at a time.

Armed with our go-to photo retoucher job description template and real-world examples, you’re prepared to take the leap.

But why stop at readiness?

Dive deeper with our job description generator. It’s your go-to resource for meticulous job listings or refining your resume to pristine perfection.

Remember:

Every pixel tweaked contributes to the larger visual masterpiece.

Let’s create that visual narrative. Together.