Retuscheringen

Retuscheringen, or retouching, is the process of altering a photograph to improve its appearance or to change specific elements within the image. In practice, retouching ranges from subtle color corrections and cosmetic touch-ups to more extensive compositing and manipulation. It is performed with image-editing software such as Photoshop, Lightroom, or other digital tools, using techniques like healing and clone tools, layering, masking, color grading, and exposure adjustments. Non-destructive workflows are common, allowing editors to modify edits without permanently altering the original file.

Common techniques include removing blemishes and distractions, smoothing skin, reducing wrinkles, whitening teeth, correcting tone and color, adjusting contrast and exposure, and manipulating backgrounds or objects through compositing. Retouching is widely used across commercial photography, including fashion, advertising, portraiture, product photography, and architectural imagery. In journalism and documentary work, retouching is more restricted, with many outlets enforcing limits or prohibiting alterations that could mislead viewers.

Ethics and criticism: Retouchering raises questions about realism, body image, and consent. While retouching can enhance quality and consistency, excessive alterations can distort reality and influence beauty standards. Best practices emphasize transparency for significant changes, obtaining consent from subjects when appropriate, and respecting intellectual property and licensing.

History: Retouching originated with manual airbrushing in the pre-digital era and expanded rapidly with digital tools beginning in the late 20th century, enabling faster workflows, sophisticated compositing, and more ambitious edits. Today, it encompasses a broad spectrum from minor corrections to complex digital manipulations.