DP Challenge

http://www.dpchallenge.com/challenge_index.php

This website is always hosting small competitions some open to any body however nearly all are for members. They run for different lengths of time and all have different specific subjects.

What is Retouching?

http://creationlondon.co.uk/what-is-retouching/

"retouching is the process of getting an image ready for the final presentation"
Nick Page - Creation London

Some images have more manipulation than others but nearly all have some form of retouching done. minor adjustments include spot or dust removal, whereas major ones include compositing people into locations.

Manipulation is also done in the darkroom with filters and dodging and burning areas of the negative.

Technical retouching

-assists at the end
-checks colours so the photographs remain consistent no matter where they are printed
-has to understand the differences between printers/inks/papera

Creative Retouching

-can specialise in different genres (cars, beauty, products)
-has to get approval from everybody on the shoot
-needs: skills / experience / speed
-works close with the client, understand their vision

Emailing

This is a copy of the email I sent to retouchers:


Subject: An inquiry into retouching

Dear [insert name]

I am currently an undergraduate student at CCAD studying for a BA in Photography, I was wondering if you could spare a few moments to answer some questions for a report on retouching I am writing.

How did you become to work in the industry?

Is working for a studio more beneficial than freelancing for newcomers?

What software is most commonly used in the industry?

Having a portfolio is crucial to all artists, is it necessary to show “before and after” versions of retouched photographs?

Who has been your favourite collaboration?

Thank you

Cara Burns