Portrait Photo Editor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the visual world of today, the emphasis on portrait photo editors has never been stronger.

As photography evolves, with each click, the demand for skilled professionals who can enhance, refine, and perfect our visual narratives grows.

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

Whether you are:

• A job aspirant attempting to understand the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the art of photo editing,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we are introducing a customizable portrait photo editor job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Portrait Photo Editor Duties and Responsibilities

Portrait Photo Editors are responsible for enhancing and modifying images to achieve the desired visual effect.

They use various editing software and tools to deliver high-quality images that meet the client’s requirements.

The following are some duties and responsibilities of a Portrait Photo Editor:

• Evaluating the client’s requirements and preferences to ensure that the final product meets their expectations
• Editing and retouching photos to correct imperfections and enhance visual appeal
• Adjusting elements of photos such as color, brightness, contrast, and saturation
• Removing or adding objects or people from photos as per the client’s request
• Using different editing techniques such as airbrushing, layering, and masking to achieve desired effects
• Working with different editing software and tools, including Adobe Lightroom, Photoshop, and other specialized software
• Resizing and cropping images for different usage and platforms
• Ensuring that the edited images are stored and organized in a proper manner for easy retrieval
• Collaborating with photographers, art directors, and clients to deliver the desired product
• Staying updated with the latest editing software and editing techniques

 

Portrait Photo Editor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a skilled and creative Portrait Photo Editor to join our team.

The responsibilities of the Portrait Photo Editor include editing and retouching images, adjusting colors and tones, and adding various artistic enhancements to bring out the best in each portrait.

Our ideal candidate has a keen eye for detail, a strong understanding of photography techniques, and proficiency in image editing software such as Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom.

In this role, you will be required to deliver high-quality, aesthetically pleasing images that meet the needs and expectations of our clients.

 

Responsibilities

• Review, select, and edit images to ensure the highest quality
• Use photo editing software and tools to manipulate and enhance images
• Correct color and adjust lighting, contrast, and colors in photos
• Add artistic enhancements to portraits as necessary
• Retouch photos to remove imperfections
• Collaborate with photographers to understand their vision and requirements
• Maintain an organized digital archive of all work
• Ensure all work is completed on schedule
• Stay updated with new image editing technologies

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a photo editor
• Strong photo editing skills and excellent portfolio
• Proficiency in photo editing software such as Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom
• Excellent attention to detail
• Creative mind with an eye for detail and storytelling
• Good time-management skills
• BSc degree in Photography, Visual Arts, Graphic Design or related field

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Portrait Photo Editor
• Work Environment: Our office is a creative and collaborative environment. This role may also involve some remote work and flexible hours, depending on project requirements.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Photo Editing Supervisor 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 $65,000 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 Portrait Photo Editor Do?

Portrait Photo Editors typically work for photography studios, media companies, fashion houses, or as freelancers.

Their primary job involves enhancing, retouching, and editing photographs taken by professional photographers, focusing on portraits.

They use specialized digital editing tools and software to improve the quality of the photos and bring the photographer’s vision to life.

They adjust various elements of the photos such as color balance, contrast, brightness, and saturation.

They may also remove distracting elements, correct imperfections or blemishes on the subjects’ face or attire, and smooth out the skin tone.

Portrait Photo Editors also crop and resize photos, ensuring they fit the required formats for print or digital use.

They work closely with photographers and clients to understand their needs and ensure the edited photos align with the desired aesthetic.

They are also responsible for organizing and managing digital files, ensuring all edited photos are backed up and easily accessible.

Their role may involve meeting tight deadlines, especially when working on projects such as fashion editorials, advertising campaigns, or weddings.

Creative vision, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of digital photography and editing software are key skills for this role.

 

Portrait Photo Editor Qualifications and Skills

A proficient portrait photo editor should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Technical skills in using photo editing software such as Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom to enhance and retouch photographs.
• A keen eye for detail and aesthetics to ensure every image is edited to perfection, enhancing the subject’s features and the overall quality of the photograph.
• Problem-solving skills to identify and rectify any errors or issues within the photographs, including lighting, color balance, and composition.
• Time management skills to manage multiple editing projects at once, ensuring all deadlines are met without compromising on the quality of work.
• Communication skills to understand the client’s requirements and deliver results that meet their expectations.
• Organizational skills to manage and archive digital files efficiently, ensuring easy retrieval for future use.
• Creativity and a strong understanding of photography to add artistic effects and enhancements that improve the overall composition of the portrait.
• A deep understanding of color theory, digital photography techniques, and image manipulation to deliver polished and professional final products.

 

Portrait Photo Editor Experience Requirements

Portrait Photo Editors typically require a Bachelor’s degree in Photography, Graphic Design, or a related field, and a solid understanding of image editing software such as Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom.

Entry-level candidates usually have 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through internships, freelance work, or part-time roles in photo editing or digital imaging.

They may also have gained experience through student projects or collaborations.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have developed their technical skills and knowledge in entry-level roles such as Junior Photo Editor or Assistant Photo Editor.

They typically have a portfolio of work showcasing their expertise in portrait photo editing.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are usually considered senior-level and may have some management or team leadership experience.

They may have worked on more complex projects, like fashion or editorial portraiture, and are often capable of leading projects, coordinating with photographers and art directors, and mentoring junior members of the team.

Certain positions may require specific experience in certain types of portrait editing, such as retouching, color grading, or composite photography.

In such cases, the candidate’s portfolio will play a crucial role in demonstrating these skills.

 

Portrait Photo Editor Education and Training Requirements

Portrait Photo Editors typically have a bachelor’s degree in photography, graphic design, art or a related field.

They need to have a strong background in photo editing software such as Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom.

Knowledge of color theory, lighting, and composition is also essential.

Some positions may require a master’s degree in photography or visual arts, especially for more senior or specialized roles.

Portrait Photo Editors can benefit from certifications in Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, or other editing software, which demonstrate proficiency and may lead to more job opportunities.

Experience with digital cameras and photography equipment is crucial, as well as an eye for detail and creativity.

Continued education through workshops, courses, or seminars can help keep skills updated with the latest techniques and trends in the industry.

 

Portrait Photo Editor Salary Expectations

A Portrait Photo Editor can expect to earn an average salary of $41,600 (USD) per year.

The actual salary can vary significantly depending on years of experience, specialization, location, and the company they work for.

 

Portrait Photo Editor Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Portrait Photo Editor need?

A Portrait Photo Editor should have strong technical skills with photo editing software such as Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom.

They should possess a keen eye for detail and understanding of color, composition, and lighting to enhance the quality of a portrait.

Creativity is also crucial as they often need to manipulate images to achieve the desired effect.

 

Do Portrait Photo Editors need a degree?

A degree is not always necessary, but having a degree or coursework in photography, visual arts, or graphic design can be beneficial.

Most important is a solid understanding of photo editing software and techniques.

Some Portrait Photo Editors may have gained their skills through self-teaching, online courses, or on-the-job training.

 

What should you look for in a Portrait Photo Editor’s resume?

A strong resume for a Portrait Photo Editor would include proficiency in photo editing software, a portfolio demonstrating their editing skills and creativity, and experience in working with different types of portrait photography.

Knowledge of color theory and composition is also valuable.

It’s also important to consider their ability to meet deadlines and work under pressure, as this is often a time-sensitive role.

 

What qualities make a good Portrait Photo Editor?

A good Portrait Photo Editor has a strong attention to detail, a creative eye, and excellent technical abilities.

They should be able to take feedback and make necessary adjustments to photos, demonstrating good communication skills.

Additionally, a good editor should be patient and committed, as editing can sometimes be a time-consuming process.

 

What are the daily duties of a Portrait Photo Editor?

Daily tasks for a Portrait Photo Editor include assessing and editing photographs, using software to correct color, remove blemishes, enhance lighting, and apply various effects.

They also work with clients or photographers to understand the desired outcome for each portrait.

Administrative tasks such as organizing files, backing up photos, and maintaining a catalog of work may also be part of their daily routine.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve shed light on the intricate world of a portrait photo editor.

Surprised?

It’s not just about cropping and filtering.

It’s about painting vivid stories with each click and adjustment.

Armed with our reliable portrait photo editor job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to make your move.

But why stop there?

Go further with our job description generator. It’s your stepping stone to precision-crafted job listings or refining your portfolio to perfection.

Remember:

Every photo edited adds a unique touch to the grand mosaic of your craft.

Let’s create that masterpiece. Together.