Photo retouching with Photoshop – challenges and tips

Photo retouching with Photoshop is an art that takes a lot of practice and a sensitive touch. Back when I still worked with Photoshop and a graphics tablet, it was often about removing small blemishes or making larger changes. The challenge was always not to falsify the character of the image. Here are a few tips and tricks that helped me retouch my images authentically and naturally.

1. Understand the image

Before I started retouching, I took the time to look at the image closely. What made it unique? Which elements were important and should be preserved? A deep understanding of the image helped me make targeted and respectful changes.

2. Work in layers

Working with layers in Photoshop let me make changes step by step and undo them at any time. That way I could make sure I didn’t lose the original character of the image.

3. Use non-destructive editing techniques

I used adjustment layers and masks to make changes without altering the original image. These techniques let me stay flexible and make adjustments at any time.

4. Pay attention to detail

Small details can make up the character of an image. I made sure these details were preserved and not lost to overly aggressive retouching.

5. Practice restraint

Sometimes less is more. Too many changes can make an image look unnatural. I practised restraint and only retouched what was truly necessary.

6. Use reference images

When I was unsure how to retouch a particular element, I used reference images. They helped me get a feel for a natural look.

Side note: For those looking for a modern approach to photo retouching, it’s worth experimenting with suitable models, e.g. for ComfyUI. This newer technology can help you restore images faster.

Conclusion

Photo retouching with Photoshop or AI tools requires a good eye for detail. I think that will still be the case X years from now. I can’t yet see natural perfection in the retouching results of AI tools, but that’s only a matter of time.