New to the Retouching Hi-Res

[Kenotic]

OP deleted

[Kenotic]

CLICK THIS ONE INSTEAD OF THE LAST
-fixed iris
-fixed lip pimple

[FlaFloyd]

Highlights at the sides are too washed out. Just doesn't look right or intentional. I don't think that will sell.

[Kenotic]

Originally Posted by FlaFloyd

Highlights at the sides are too washed out. Just doesn't look right or intentional. I don't think that will sell.

I can agree with that towards the first one... but on all of them?

[TommyO]

I think the feedback will vary a great deal. We really don't know your experience level or overall goals for the images. We also don't know where you left off. So, we have to judge them assuming they were glamour retouches with attention to all parts of the image.

With that said, let's see:
- many of the overall retouch aspects are addressed;
- you did make a lot of modifications that were certainly time consuming;
However, we can see many smaller issues that will certainly be brought to your attention by others. They vary from skin texture, tonality, eye whites, eye brows, etc. Just lots of very small stuff.

So, my overall comment would be... refine your skills. You're moving in the right direction, but maybe going too fast or not paying enough attention to smaller details that will certainly be picked up by professionals.

Good luck on the making money part though, as it's a very competitive market. You also need to tell us where you are located before anyone can advise about rates.

[Kenotic]

Post deleted

[TommyO]

Thanks for filling us in. It really does help to understand your experience level. At your age and level, we would not expect perfection. However, without knowledge of your level, many would critique it with that expectation.

So, regarding pay expectations... hmmm. You probably will not get any private work without an extensive portfolio and a descent reputation. I would recommend you work with a photographer or professional corporation and build both experience and portfolio. If you are already gainfully employed, don't quit unless it's a good offer. You can always get some additional experience in the evenings, weekends or on a volunteer basis. Set goals for each of the upcoming 5 years and stick to them. Consider relocation, but it sounds like you're in a good spot already. Maybe post another thread just for those opinions, as many have started out just like you. Learn from others mistakes.