Portrait retouching and enhancements explained…

Retouching was regularly done in the film days, when trained artists with the aid of a specialized light table and magnifier would retouch the negatives. Retouching took away blemishes and facial lines, plus whatever else the photographer wanted to have done. The printing process somewhat diffused the edges of this retouching because the retouching was done on the top of the film base and not on the emulsion side. Positive artwork had to be done on each and every print made from a retouched negative.

This service was offered to studios by the photofinishing labs at a cost to those photographers. Some studios in order to reduce their costs, and to offer either lower consumer pricing or to increase their profits, did not seek after this service. The argument was generally something on the order of “why would someone want to change their appearance to something they are not?” Low rate studios do not offer retouching because they simply cannot afford to do so.

Typically however, the object of retouching is to present the portrait in a most positive and pleasing way without changing appearance. Furthermore, some photographers would make use of camera effects like vigneting and soft focus filters to enhance their portraiture.

Today with digital photography, retouching is done with the aid of computer software either by the photo lab or by the studio. Retouching is performed on each portrait image ordered from and the first print carries the cost of this retouching. Additional prints do not carry the cost for retouching services since all the work is done to a copy of the digital master.

Portrait enhancements may include vigneting, soft and selective focus – all to controllable degrees.  Converting to black and white as well as a variety of toning effects, are offered generally at no additional charge, because there is no need for different films or chemicals. “Richard’s Touch” is provided by him on every portrait that he creates.