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Image Retouching information

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$10

$33

$60

How much do image retouching jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for image retouching in the United States is $33.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.40 and $38.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is image retouching?

Image retouching is the process of improving or altering photographs using specialized software to enhance their overall appearance. This can include correcting colors, removing blemishes, adjusting lighting, sharpening details, and even manipulating or combining images. Retouching is commonly used in industries like fashion, advertising, and photography to produce polished and professional-looking images. Skilled retouchers often use programs such as Adobe Photoshop to achieve high-quality results while maintaining a natural look.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an image retoucher, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Image Retoucher, you need a keen eye for detail, strong visual aesthetics, and proficiency in digital editing, often backed by a degree or coursework in photography or graphic design. Mastery of tools like Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, and familiarity with color calibration hardware are typically required. Excellent communication, time management, and adaptability help ensure you meet client expectations and handle tight deadlines. These skills are crucial for producing high-quality, visually appealing images that align with brand or client standards.

What are some typical challenges faced by image retouchers when collaborating with photographers and clients?

Image retouchers often encounter challenges such as interpreting subjective feedback, maintaining consistency with a photographer's or client's visual style, and managing tight deadlines. Communication is key, as retouchers must clarify expectations and ensure their edits align with the creative vision. Additionally, balancing technical precision with artistic judgment is crucial, especially when handling high-volume projects or last-minute revisions. Successful collaboration relies on adaptability and proactive communication throughout the editing process.

What is the difference between Image Retouching vs Photo Editing?

AspectImage RetouchingPhoto Editing
Primary FocusRefining and enhancing specific details, skin smoothing, blemish removalAdjusting overall image elements like brightness, contrast, cropping
Tools UsedPhotoshop, retouching brushes, cloning toolsLightroom, Photoshop, editing sliders
Work EnvironmentStudio, post-productionOn-location, post-production
Common UsageFashion, beauty, commercial photographyEvent, landscape, portrait photography

While both image retouching and photo editing involve enhancing photographs, retouching focuses on detailed corrections like skin smoothing and blemish removal, often used in fashion and beauty industries. Photo editing encompasses broader adjustments to improve overall image quality, suitable for various photography styles. Understanding these differences helps clients choose the right service for their needs.

How to become an image retoucher?

To become an image retoucher, develop skills in photo editing software such as Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom, and build a strong portfolio showcasing your work. Formal training or courses in graphic design or digital imaging can be beneficial, and gaining experience through internships or freelance projects helps establish your expertise in the field.

What does an image retoucher do?

An image retoucher enhances and modifies photographs to improve their visual quality by adjusting elements such as color, lighting, and removing imperfections. They use software like Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom and often work under tight deadlines to deliver polished images for clients or publication.
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What states have the most Image Retouching jobs?

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What job categories do people searching Image Retouching jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Image Retouching jobs are:

Image Retouching jobs near you
Infographic showing various Image Retouching job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,561 per year, or $33.9 per hour.

Fashion Photographer / Retoucher bilingual Korean and English

Trend Notes

Lake Forest, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Company Description

At Trend Notes, we set ourselves apart as a competitive buying source. We have the muscle to back it up, too. Thanks to close relationships with more than 100 vendors in the LA Fashion District, our fashion forecasters know what's coming down the catwalk before it ever hits the racks. We set the trends that appear in shops and on the street. Every day, we snag fresh fads and of-the-moment styles. Through our distribution channel, which reaches over 34,000 retail customers, we pass the fashion onto you. A subscription to Trend Notes opens up access to regional trend readings that reveal what's hot in your area. We offer our wholesalers bi-weekly updates detailing the bestselling merchandise, color palettes, and styles that apply to their location.


Trend Notes is an Irvine-based fashion wholesaler specializing in trendy womenswear, accessories, and children’s clothing since 2010. Their core business goals are quality control, inventory management, and customer service.


Role Description

This is a full-time on-site role as a Fashion Photographer / Retoucher at TREND NOTES, INC located in Lake Forest, CA. The Fashion Photographer / Retoucher will be responsible for conducting photoshoots and retouching fashion images. They will collaborate with clients and creative teams to execute the visual vision, and ensure all images meet the desired standards. Bilingual proficiency in Korean and English is required for effective communication.


Qualifications

  • Proven experience as a Fashion Photographer / Retoucher
  • Strong portfolio demonstrating skills in fashion photography and image retouching
  • Proficiency in industry-standard photo editing software (such as Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom)
  • Detail-oriented with a strong eye for aesthetic and composition
  • Excellent communication and collaboration skills
  • Bilingual proficiency in Korean and English