I've been practicing.

[mellyrose]

Hi everyone!

So, I haven't been around the boards much as I've been so busy with work...but I've finally had some more time for photoshoots/retouching lately and would love some feedback. These are from today. There was obviously a problem area in her forehead which I worked hard to maintain texture in but have not perfected yet.

Afters are attached and also here for high rez-

Photo one:

BEFORE

AFTER

Photo two:

BEFORE

AFTER

[Vikki]

I think you did an excellent job of keeping it real! Except for a small area along the top of her hairline, your work looks great. My only suggestion is that you could go a bit farther on the areas around the sides of her nose and upper lip area. Even without that being done, it's a very natural looking retouch, and always preferred in the real world.

[mellyrose]

Thank you! I have really been working hard to be able to handle troublesome areas like her forehead, with tons of blemishes/hairs and without losing texture, so your feedback is encouraging. I know I'm not all the way there yet, but it's good to know I've improved.

I'd like some more feedback from others...I know there are harsher C&Cers out there....

[CathyH]

I really like the second photo, very nice and natural.
the first one, could use more work on the forehead, there seems to be some repeat highlight that could be smoothed out.
I also think you could apply some levels adjustment to give it some more depth.
Very nice.