Photo Retouching vs Photo Editing: What's the Difference?

Editing with retouching.

If you've ever worked with a photographer or designer, you've probably heard the terms "photo editing" and "photo retouching" used interchangeably. While they're really closely related, these two processes serve different purposes and involve distinct techniques. Understanding the difference can help you communicate your vision more clearly and get the exact results you and your clients are looking for.

What is Photo Editing?

Photo editing is the broader term for the process of adjusting and enhancing the overall image. Think of it as setting the stage for your photograph. This foundational work focuses on global adjustments that affect the entire image or large portions of it.

Common photo editing tasks include:

• Adjusting exposure and brightness to ensure proper lighting throughout the image

• Colour correction to fix white balance issues and ensure accurate colour representation

• Contrast and saturation adjustments to make images more vibrant or subdued

• Cropping and straightening to improve composition and remove distracting elements

• Applying filters or presets to achieve a specific mood or aesthetic

• Sharpening or softening the overall image

  
  

Photo editing is essential for every image that comes out of a camera. Even the most perfectly shot photograph benefits from basic editing to optimise its visual impact. This process typically happens first in any post-production workflow and sets the foundation for any additional work.

Without this step images directly from the camera will look flat and uninspiring.

What is Photo Retouching?

Photo retouching is a more detailed, localised process that focuses on perfecting specific elements within an image. While editing deals with the big picture, retouching zooms in on the fine details. This is precision work that requires more time, skill, and attention to detail.

Common photo retouching tasks include:

• Skin retouching such as removing blemishes, smoothing skin texture, and evening skin tone

• Removing unwanted objects like stray hairs, dust spots, or background distractions

• Enhancing facial features including whitening teeth, brightening eyes, or defining contours

• Body shaping to adjust proportions or enhance certain features (although not a step I condone)

• Frequency separation for advanced skin work that preserves texture while smoothing tone

• Dodging and burning to add dimension and guide the viewer's eye

• Hair and makeup refinement to perfect styling details

  
  

Retouching is where images go from good to exceptional. It's used mostly in portrait photography, fashion shoots, product photography, and any work destined for publication or professional use.

Key Differences at a Glance

Scope: Editing affects the entire image or large areas, while retouching focuses on specific details and small areas.

Timing: Editing typically comes first in the workflow, establishing the overall look before detailed retouching begins.

Complexity: Editing involves more straightforward adjustments, whereas retouching requires advanced techniques and more time.

Cost: Because retouching is more labor-intensive, it generally costs more than basic editing.

Purpose: Editing optimises the technical quality of an image, while retouching perfects the aesthetic details.

When Do You Need Each?

Most professional images require both editing and retouching, but the extent of each depends on your project.

You might need editing only for lifestyle photography, real estate images, landscape photos, or event coverage where natural, authentic looks are prioritised.

You'll likely need editing plus retouching for headshots and portraits, fashion and beauty photography, product shots for e-commerce or advertising, magazine or editorial work, and wedding photography where couples want to look their absolute best.

(Editing with retouching is the most common request I get)

Making the Right Choice for Your Project

When discussing your project with a photographer or post-production specialist, be clear about your expectations. Ask to see examples of their work and discuss whether you need basic editing, light retouching, or extensive retouching. Understanding the difference between these services will help you budget appropriately and achieve the visual results you're aiming for.

Remember, both editing and retouching serve important roles in creating stunning imagery. Editing ensures your photos are technically sound and visually appealing, while retouching adds that extra layer of polish that makes images truly shine.

Together, they transform good photographs into exceptional visual assets that represent your brand or project in the best possible light.