Retouching Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In today’s visually driven world, the demand for Retouching Specialists is rising rapidly.

As digital media continues to evolve, so does the need for highly skilled professionals who can enhance, perfect, and protect our visual content.

But let’s delve deeper: What is truly expected from a Retouching Specialist?

Whether you are:

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

You’re in the right place.

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

Let’s dive right in.

Retouching Specialist Duties and Responsibilities

Retouching Specialists are primarily involved in editing images to improve their appearance.

They use software to manipulate photos according to a client’s requirements and ensure the final product is of the highest quality.

The daily duties and responsibilities of a Retouching Specialist include:

• Work closely with photographers and art directors to understand the desired outcome of each project
• Use photo editing software to enhance and manipulate images
• Correct color tones and balance to ensure images are vibrant and lifelike
• Remove unwanted elements from photographs such as blemishes or background objects
• Add elements to a photograph as required, such as text or graphics
• Resize and crop images to fit specified formats or social media platforms
• Ensure all images are properly saved, organized, and backed up
• Consult with clients on their specifications and make necessary changes
• Keep up-to-date with the latest imaging technologies and industry trends
• Maintain quality control by reviewing all retouched images

 

Retouching Specialist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a skilled Retouching Specialist to enhance and refine the visual quality of our images.

The responsibilities include reviewing photos, editing and retouching them in line with our creative vision and standards.

Candidates should have a keen eye for detail, artistic skills, and proficiency in image editing software, like Adobe Photoshop.

The ideal candidate is a creative individual who understands the intricacies of photo editing and can consistently deliver high-quality, captivating images.

 

Responsibilities

• Review, edit and retouch images in line with company expectations
• Work closely with the creative team to understand project scope and objectives
• Manipulate photos to achieve highest quality using the appropriate tools
• Stay up to date with new image editing technologies
• Ensure all images are completed on time
• Maintain an organized workflow and image library
• Communicate with teams to receive feedback and make necessary adjustments

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a photo editor or retouching specialist
• Hands-on experience with photo editing software, particularly Adobe Photoshop
• Strong aesthetic skills with the ability to combine various colors, fonts and layouts
• Attention to visual details
• Ability to meet deadlines and work under pressure
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Degree in photography, visual arts, digital media or related field is a plus

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Opportunities for career advancement

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Retouching Specialist
• Work Environment: Studio setting with options for remote work. Some travel may be required for photo shoots or team meetings.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Creative Director or Art Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $60,000 minimum to $90,000 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 Retouching Specialist Do?

Retouching Specialists typically work for advertising agencies, publishing houses, photography studios, or as freelance professionals.

They use digital tools and software to enhance or alter photographs, in accordance with clients’ specifications or project requirements.

Their job involves removing unwanted elements, adjusting color, light, and shadows, or adding effects to create the desired result.

Retouching Specialists also work closely with photographers, art directors, and graphic designers to ensure that the final image aligns with the creative vision and aesthetic guidelines of the project.

They are required to possess a keen eye for detail and a strong understanding of visual elements, as they have to make subtle changes that could significantly enhance the overall quality of an image without making it look unrealistic or overly manipulated.

In addition to photo retouching, they may also be involved in archiving and organizing digital files, preparing images for print or web use, and maintaining up-to-date knowledge of new tools and software in the field of digital retouching.

Their role requires both creative and technical skills, as they need to balance the artistic aspects of an image with the practical considerations of the medium in which it will be used.

 

Retouching Specialist Qualifications and Skills

A proficient retouching specialist should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Excellent technical skills to use photo editing software like Photoshop and Lightroom to correct and enhance digital images.
• Strong artistic ability to understand the aesthetics of an image and bring creative visions to life.
• Keen attention to detail to spot imperfections in images and retouch them without compromising the natural look of the image.
• Time management skills to handle multiple tasks and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to understand client requirements and provide a satisfactory result.
• Problem-solving skills to overcome challenges that may occur during the retouching process.
• Knowledge of color theory, lighting, and composition to enhance image quality and convey the desired message.
• Ability to maintain an organized workflow and manage files and revisions efficiently.

 

Retouching Specialist Experience Requirements

Those seeking to become a Retouching Specialist usually have a background in photography, graphic design, or a related field, with a keen eye for detail and a strong understanding of color, light, and shadows.

Entry-level candidates usually have 1-2 years of experience in image editing and manipulation, often gained through a part-time role, internship, or freelance work.

Familiarity with software like Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom is often required, along with proficiency in digital drawing tools.

Candidates with 2-4 years of experience often have a broader skill set, including image compositing, color correction, and restoration of old or damaged photographs.

They may have experience working in various industries such as advertising, fashion, or print media.

For those with more than 5 years of experience, they typically have a vast portfolio demonstrating their skills and creativity.

They may have experience leading a team, managing multiple projects, and working under tight deadlines.

At this level, employers may expect candidates to have specialist knowledge of advanced retouching techniques and the latest digital editing tools.

 

Retouching Specialist Education and Training Requirements

Retouching Specialists usually have an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in graphic design, photography, art or a related field.

They require a strong background in photo editing software like Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom, and need to be proficient in skills such as color correction, image manipulation and digital painting.

Some positions, particularly those in high-end retouching, might require the specialist to have advanced knowledge of photo manipulation techniques, including airbrushing and frequency separation.

Taking up professional certification courses in Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, or other related software can be beneficial.

These certifications demonstrate expertise in the software and can be an added advantage in this competitive field.

Pursuing a master’s degree in related fields like digital arts or media studies can provide a deeper understanding of image composition, color theory, and modern editing techniques, which can be beneficial for career advancement.

Continuous learning and staying updated with the latest trends in photo editing and retouching is vital in this rapidly evolving field.

 

Retouching Specialist Salary Expectations

A Retouching Specialist earns an average salary of $51,478 (USD) per year.

The salary can vary greatly depending on the specialist’s level of experience, skills, the type of company they work for, and the region in which they are located.

 

Retouching Specialist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Retouching Specialist need?

Retouching Specialists require a keen eye for detail and color, excellent computer proficiency, and strong knowledge of photo editing software such as Adobe Photoshop.

They should possess creative flair and a good understanding of visual elements like composition, color balance, and aesthetics.

Good time management skills and the ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously are also vital.

 

Do Retouching Specialists need a degree?

While a degree is not always necessary, many Retouching Specialists hold a degree in graphic design, photography, or a related field.

However, hands-on experience with photo editing software and a strong portfolio showcasing their retouching skills can also be sufficient for certain roles.

 

What should you look for in a Retouching Specialist’s resume?

A Retouching Specialist’s resume should demonstrate strong technical skills in photo editing software like Adobe Photoshop.

It should also highlight their previous experience in photo retouching, including any specific projects or companies they’ve worked for.

A portfolio showcasing their work can also provide a more visual demonstration of their skills and style.

 

What qualities make a good Retouching Specialist?

A good Retouching Specialist is detail-oriented, patient, and has a good eye for aesthetics.

They should have a strong understanding of color theory and the ability to make accurate color adjustments.

Creativity is also important, as they often need to enhance or alter images in a way that is visually pleasing and realistic.

Good communication skills are also key, as they need to understand the client’s vision and requirements.

 

Can Retouching Specialists work remotely?

Yes, Retouching Specialists can often work remotely, as their main tools are computer-based.

They can receive, edit, and deliver images digitally, making it a job role well-suited for remote work.

However, communication and collaboration with photographers, art directors, or other team members are still crucial, so they should be comfortable with using digital communication tools.

 

Conclusion

And that’s a wrap!

Today, we’ve enlightened you about the truth behind being a retouching specialist.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about erasing blemishes or tweaking colors.

It’s about painting a flawless reality, one pixel at a time.

Equipped with our comprehensive retouching specialist job description template and tangible examples, you’re on the verge of a game-changing move.

But why halt your journey here?

Venture further with our job description generator. It’s your express lane to meticulously tailored job listings or sharpening your portfolio to the hilt.

Don’t forget:

Each pixel you refine contributes to the grand scheme of the image.

Let’s create those flawless realities. Together.

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