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Photoshop High-End Retouching Masterclass

Alex Miller

4.6

Based on 54 ratings

, see reviews

Alex Miller

Whether you're new to portrait editing or have been retouching for a while now, you're probably here because you're looking to learn how to create a higher-quality retouch.

What sets a high-quality retouch apart from an average retouch? If you can create a result that looks like real skin and makes the model look like herself, yet she still looks flawless - you've created a high-quality retouch. Popular trends are moving away from airbrushed-looking images, where models are made to look like porcelain dolls. Instead, we are moving towards images that feel unretouched and "real".

Whether you're new to portrait editing or have been retouching for a while now, you're probably here because you're looking to learn how to create a higher-quality retouch.

Often, basic techniques such as frequency separation can create results that look over-edited. The techniques taught in this tutorial will instead create a very natural result that maintains the complete structural integrity and all the texture of the model's skin.

You will learn a retouching workflow that is centered around quality and efficiency. The techniques are unique and novel and can be applied to any portrait shot (daytime / studio / nighttime / etc.). This tutorial will take your retouching game to the next level.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

High-quality, non-destructive skin retouching
Dodge & burn as an alternative to frequency separation
Processing images in camera raw
Cleaning up blemishes and other texture issues
Evening out skin while maintaining realism

Contouring the face to add definition and dimension
Retouching, defining and sharpening eyes
Color correcting skin hue issues
Adding style and color in photoshop
Sharpening and exporting from photoshop

High-quality, non-destructive skin retouching
Dodge & burn as an alternative to frequency separation
Processing images in camera raw
Cleaning up blemishes and other texture issues
Evening out skin while maintaining realism
Contouring the face to add definition and dimension
Retouching, defining and sharpening eyes
Color correcting skin hue issues
Adding style and color in photoshop
Sharpening and exporting from photoshop

Syllabus

Introduction

Terms

Local Dodge & Burn Basics

Frequently Asked Questions

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Focuses on creating a non-destructive, realistic, and high-quality look on portraits

Provides an alternative to Frequency Separation, making the results look more natural

Teaches techniques for evening out skin tones and maintaining skin texture

Demonstrates how to use contouring to add definition to facial features

Provides step-by-step guidance through the entire portrait retouching workflow

Applicable to all types of portrait photography, including daytime, studio, and nighttime

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Reviews summary

High-end natural portrait retouching

Learners say this masterclass is a transformative experience for portrait retouching, offering a high-end, natural approach that preserves skin texture. The course uniquely emphasizes Dodge & Burn techniques over traditional frequency separation, helping achieve professional, realistic results that avoid the 'plastic' look. Students praise the clear and detailed instruction and the efficient, non-destructive workflow. However, a significant number of reviewers note that the course is best suited for intermediate to advanced Photoshop users, as it assumes prior knowledge and may have a fast pace for beginners. It's highly recommended for those looking to elevate their existing retouching skills.

Instructor provides clear explanations and is easy to follow.

"The instructor's teaching style is clear and easy to follow. The step-by-step guidance is super clear, and the workflow is incredibly efficient."

"The instructor covers everything thoroughly, from cleanup to final export. I found the instruction very easy to follow."

"This course definitely improved my professional work. The instructor is knowledgeable, and their insights are gold."

Teaches a unique, non-destructive, and efficient retouching workflow.

"The detailed explanation of local Dodge & Burn, along with the cleanup techniques, is invaluable. I particularly appreciated the section on color correcting skin hue issues."

"This course is a revelation! It truly teaches a high-end, natural approach to retouching that avoids the 'plastic' look. The techniques are non-destructive, which is crucial for my workflow."

"The most comprehensive and effective retouching course I've ever taken. It completely changed my approach to skin work, making it look real and subtle."

Focuses on realistic skin texture, avoiding artificial looks.

"The instructor's approach to Dodge & Burn is revolutionary, making images look incredibly natural without the airbrushed feel."

"The focus on preserving texture using Dodge & Burn rather than frequency separation is a game-changer. My retouching quality has skyrocketed."

"After taking this course, my portraits look so much more professional and natural. The Dodge & Burn method taught here is far superior for maintaining texture."

Some found the pace quick, suggesting rewatching for full comprehension.

"I found some parts moved a bit quickly, especially for a complex topic, but rewatching was always an option."

"The instructor is knowledgeable, but sometimes the pace felt a bit rushed, or the explanations could have been broken down into smaller steps."

"Good course overall. It provides unique techniques for achieving natural skin. A few minor points on clarity, but overall highly beneficial for advanced users."

Best suited for intermediate to advanced Photoshop users.

"I found it a bit too advanced for my current level. I wish there was more foundational Photoshop instruction before diving into these techniques."

"The instructor assumes a lot of prior knowledge. Still, if you're already very proficient, it might be exactly what you need."

"I struggled with this course. As a beginner, I found it overwhelming and not enough basic context was given. It seems to be for people who already know a lot about Photoshop."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Photoshop High-End Retouching Masterclass with these activities:

Read 'Portrait Techniques for Digital Photography' by Steve Anchell

Show steps

Sharpen your portrait photography skills by exploring this book and discover new techniques you can apply in your own portrait work.

Show steps

Preview the table of contents and introduction
Read the chapters on lighting and composition
Review the exercises and assignments

Follow Along with Online Tutorials on Skin Retouching

Show steps

Expand your knowledge and skills in skin retouching by exploring online tutorials, gaining valuable insights and practical tips.

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Search for reputable online tutorials on skin retouching
Select tutorials that align with your skill level and interests
Follow the instructions provided in the tutorials
Practice the techniques on your own images

Practice Dodge & Burn Techniques on Sample Images

Show steps

Solidify your understanding of the Dodge & Burn techniques by practicing on sample images, improving your image editing skills.

Browse courses on Dodge and Burn

Show steps

Download sample images from the course materials
Open the images in Photoshop or a similar software
Apply Dodge & Burn techniques to adjust the lighting and shadows

Five other activities

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Show all eight activities

Create Before-and-After Image Comparisons

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Showcase your progress and demonstrate the effectiveness of the retouching techniques by creating before-and-after image comparisons.

Browse courses on Image Editing

Show steps

Select a set of images that illustrate the retouching process
Edit the images using the techniques learned in the course
Arrange the images side-by-side for comparison

Experiment with Different Skin Tones and Lighting Conditions

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Enhance your retouching skills by practicing on images with diverse skin tones and lighting conditions, expanding your capabilities.

Browse courses on Lighting

Show steps

Collect or find images featuring different skin tones and lighting scenarios
Apply the retouching techniques to adjust for skin tones and lighting
Compare the results and fine-tune your approach

Develop a Retouching Portfolio for Your Work

Show steps

Showcase your retouching skills and build a portfolio that demonstrates your abilities, which can be valuable for professional growth.

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Select your best retouched images that represent your skills
Create an online portfolio or website to display the images
Share your portfolio with potential clients or employers

Attend a Workshop on Advanced Portrait Retouching Techniques

Show steps

Enhance your retouching skills and gain exposure to industry-leading techniques by attending an advanced portrait retouching workshop.

Show steps

Research and locate workshops that align with your interests
Register for a workshop that fits your schedule and budget
Participate actively in the workshop and engage with the instructors

Contribute to Open-Source Retouching Software or Plugins

Show steps

Engage with the wider retouching community and contribute to the development of open-source tools, enriching the field and expanding your knowledge.

Show steps

Identify open-source retouching software or plugin projects
Review the source code and identify areas where you can contribute
Fork the project and make your changes
Submit a pull request with your contributions

Career center

Learners who complete Photoshop High-End Retouching Masterclass will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Reading list

We've selected 50 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Photoshop High-End Retouching Masterclass.

Real World Adobe Photoshop CS3

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A comprehensive guide to Photoshop Elements that covers everything from the basics to advanced techniques. is perfect for beginners who want to learn how to use Photoshop Elements or experienced users who want to brush up on their skills.

Photoshop High-End Retouching Masterclass

What's inside

Learning objectives

Syllabus

Traffic lights

Save this course

Reviews summary

High-end natural portrait retouching

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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