Photography Retoucher Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of digital imagery, the role of photography retouchers is increasingly in focus.

As visual communication accelerates, the demand for skilled professionals who can enhance, modify, and perfect our photographic content grows stronger.

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

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the nuances of this role,
• A hiring manager defining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the art of photography retouching,

You’ve landed in the right place.

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

Let’s dive right into it.

Photography Retoucher Duties and Responsibilities

Photography Retouchers play a crucial role in the photography process, as they use digital technology to enhance or manipulate images.

The main goal is to make photographs look more professional and meet the needs of the photographer or client.

The daily duties and responsibilities of a Photography Retoucher include:

• Collaborate with photographers to understand their vision and requirements
• Use photo editing software and tools to retouch, color correct, manipulate and enhance images
• Restore old or damaged photos and adjust color balance and contrast
• Remove unwanted elements from photographs such as wires, reflections or shadows
• Ensure the consistency in the look and feel of the images in a series or project
• Work on skin retouching, body sculpting, and other specific image alterations
• Maintain organized archives of all images and projects
• Stay up-to-date with new imaging technologies and industry trends
• Ensure all work is completed within the given timeline

 

Photography Retoucher Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are in search of a talented and meticulous Photography Retoucher to enhance and modify photographs according to specific client needs.

Photography Retoucher’s responsibilities include analyzing photo requirements, applying necessary retouching techniques, and maintaining a consistent style across all edits.

Our ideal candidate has a keen eye for detail, outstanding technical skills, and a strong understanding of photography and retouching processes.

Ultimately, the role of the Photography Retoucher is to refine images, correct flaws, and create a finished product that meets client expectations and adheres to company standards.

 

Responsibilities

• Review and analyze client requirements and project briefs
• Apply appropriate retouching techniques to improve quality and visual impact
• Correct color, contrast, and lighting in photographs
• Remove unwanted elements and enhance key features
• Collaborate with photographers and other team members to achieve desired results
• Maintain a consistent style across all edits
• Ensure final images reflect client specifications and adhere to quality standards
• Manage multiple projects, keeping to tight deadlines without compromising on work quality
• Stay updated on the latest retouching techniques and trends

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Photography Retoucher, Photo Editor, or similar role
• Proficiency in photo-editing software, such as Adobe Photoshop
• Excellent eye for detail and strong artistic abilities
• Understanding of color correction and enhancement techniques
• Knowledge of different photography styles and trends
• Ability to multitask and work under tight deadlines
• High school diploma; degree in photography, visual arts, or relevant field is a plus

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Photography Retoucher
• Work Environment: This role is primarily office-based, with flexibility for remote work. Occasional travel may be required for photoshoots or team meetings.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Lead Photographer or Photo Editing Manager.
• Salary: Salary is dependent on candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $35,000 minimum to $60,000 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 Photography Retoucher Do?

Photography Retouchers are professionals who work with photographers, advertising agencies, publishing companies, fashion brands, or as freelancers.

They are responsible for enhancing or manipulating photographs digitally to improve their aesthetic quality or to meet specific client requirements.

This can involve adjusting the color, contrast, and brightness of the photograph, as well as removing unwanted objects, blemishes, or inconsistencies.

Photography Retouchers can also be tasked with adding special effects, changing the background, or merging multiple images.

They use software such as Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom to achieve these effects.

In addition to technical skills, a Photography Retoucher needs to have a good eye for detail and a strong understanding of colors and aesthetics.

They may also need to collaborate with photographers and other professionals to understand the desired outcome of the image and how it fits into a larger project or campaign.

They also often handle file management, ensuring that all images are properly stored, backed up, and easy to find.

This role requires a balance of technical know-how, artistic ability, and organizational skills.

 

Photography Retoucher Qualifications and Skills

Photography retouchers need a varied set of skills and qualifications to manipulate and enhance images, which include:

• Advanced knowledge and proficiency in photo-editing software such as Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom.
• Strong visual skills with meticulous attention to detail, color, and light to ensure every aspect of the image is perfect.
• Good understanding of photographic techniques and the principles of photography to better interpret and work on images.
• Problem-solving skills to address and overcome technical challenges that may arise during the retouching process.
• Ability to follow instructions and adhere to the stylistic guidelines set by clients or photographers.
• Time management skills to effectively manage and prioritize projects to meet deadlines.
• Strong communication skills to work closely with photographers and clients, discussing retouching adjustments, revisions, and expectations.
• Awareness of current trends in photography and digital imaging to stay competitive in the field.
• Creativity and a strong sense of aesthetics to enhance images while maintaining natural looks.

 

Photography Retoucher Experience Requirements

A Photography Retoucher, also known as a Photo Editor, typically requires a good amount of experience working with digital images and various editing software programs.

Entry-level candidates may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often obtained through internships or part-time roles in photography studios or advertising agencies.

They usually have hands-on experience with software tools like Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom and other image editing programs.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have a proven track record of their technical skills and creative abilities.

They have worked extensively with image manipulation, color correction, digital painting and photo restoration.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have a substantial portfolio demonstrating their ability to handle complex retouching projects.

They may also have some leadership experience, having managed teams or projects, making them ideal candidates for senior or managerial positions in the field of photo retouching.

Continuing education in the latest software and techniques in image editing and enhancement is always a bonus.

Additionally, a background in arts, graphic design or photography is often desirable.

 

Photography Retoucher Education and Training Requirements

A Photography Retoucher typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, along with specialized training in photo editing software.

This job role often requires a strong background in graphic design or photography, with a focus on digital image manipulation.

A bachelor’s degree in graphic design, photography, or a related field is highly recommended.

Knowledge of image editing software such as Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, or similar software is crucial.

Therefore, attending courses to learn these tools is often a requirement.

A Photography Retoucher can also benefit from a certification program in photo editing or digital photography.

These programs offer in-depth training in color theory, image manipulation, and digital imaging technologies.

Continued training to stay updated with the latest trends and techniques in image editing, digital photography, and software tools is also important.

Some professionals may choose to pursue advanced degrees or certifications in areas such as digital arts or visual effects.

Practical experience through internships, freelance work, or other similar opportunities is very beneficial as it provides hands-on experience with the tools and techniques used in the industry.

Creativity and artistic skills are also important aspects that can be nurtured through practice and continuous learning.

 

Photography Retoucher Salary Expectations

A Photography Retoucher can expect to earn an average salary of $40,877 (USD) per year.

However, the actual earnings can fluctuate depending on factors such as the individual’s level of experience, location, and the company they are employed by.

 

Photography Retoucher Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Photography Retoucher need?

A Photography Retoucher needs to have a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of digital enhancement tools like Photoshop, Lightroom, and Capture One Pro.

They need to have a good sense of color, composition, and the ability to manipulate light.

They also need to have strong time management skills to meet deadlines, along with excellent communication skills to understand and implement client requirements.

 

Do Photography Retouchers need a degree?

While a degree isn’t necessary, it could be beneficial to have a degree or diploma in photography, graphic design, or a related field.

However, hands-on experience with image editing software and a strong portfolio showcasing retouching skills could be more important than formal education.

 

What should you look for in a Photography Retoucher resume?

When reviewing a Photography Retoucher resume, look for experience with digital retouching tools, familiarity with color theory, and a portfolio demonstrating their skills.

Also, check for any additional qualifications such as a certificate or degree in photography or graphic design.

Experience in a deadline-driven environment would also be beneficial.

 

What qualities make a good Photography Retoucher?

A good Photography Retoucher has an artistic eye and a solid understanding of visual elements like color and composition.

They are detail-oriented and patient, as retouching can be a meticulous and time-consuming task.

They should have excellent problem-solving skills to overcome challenges during the editing process and should be able to work efficiently under pressure to meet tight deadlines.

 

How is the workflow for a Photography Retoucher?

A Photography Retoucher’s workflow starts with receiving raw images from the photographer.

They then analyze the images and make a retouching plan based on the client’s needs.

The retoucher cleans the image, adjusts color balance, removes unwanted elements, and enhances specific features.

They then submit the final images to the client or photographer for approval.

This process can vary depending on the complexity of the project and the number of images to be retouched.

 

Conclusion

There you have it!

Today, we’ve shed light on the ins and outs of being a photography retoucher.

Guess what?

It’s not just about tweaking images.

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

With our reliable photography retoucher job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to make your mark.

But why limit yourself?

Go deeper with our job description generator. It’s your stepping stone to creating precisely-crafted listings or refining your portfolio to brilliance.

Remember:

Each pixel holds a part of the grand image.

Let’s create that masterpiece. Together.