File Prep vs. Retouching

The images and descriptions below are examples that demonstrate some of the differences between "File Prep" and "Retouching."

Generally, the term "file prep" is used to describe edits that a production artist will make to an image to "prep" it for further work.
File prep may include overall color, contrast, density adjustments; pathing; "spotting" (removing) dust from the image; renaming files.
Other "special requests" from a retoucher or an art director may also qualify as file prep.
Time spent on file prep, may be about 15 minutes but will vary depending on file size and intricacy of pathing.
After file prep is complete, the image may go to "retouching." Or (if retouching is not called for) it may go straight to page layout, prepress, or web design.

"Retouching" is used to describe a large variety of different kinds of work that a retouching artist will do.
Retouching work may include: Local color, density, contrast corrections; strip work; "soft-edge" masking; enhancements or changes to the original lighting; enhancements or changes to the subject; creation or removal of elements and/or objects in the photography; repair or restoration of a damaged image; removal and/or lessening of blemishes and flaws of the subject; special edits that takes into account the end use of the image; photorealistic illustration.
Time spent on retouching varies greatly depending on the work that is needed as well as the file size of the image. Retouching a single image may take between 1 and 16 hours --- or even longer.

Much of the time, the type of work that is required or requested consists of a combination of file prep and retouching.

Some images can be enlarged by clicking.

File Prep (about 10 minutes)

Retouching (about 6 hours)








File Prep with Quick & Easy Shadow (about 15 minutes)

Retouching (about 2 - 6 hours depending on file size)

Link to info about Shadows

File Prep - ONLY

File Prep AND Minimal Retouching








File Prep with Adobe Photoshop Layer Style Shadow

Retouching (including Natural Shadow)








File Prep

Retouching








File Prep

Retouching
(including: color-shift to PMS, light clean-up,
minimal enhancement & natural shadow that is k.o.'d)

Link to info about
Paths, Clipping Paths, Transparency, Alpha Channels, Masks.



File Prep

Retouching








File Prep + Minimal Retouching (about 2 hours).

Retouching (about 8 hours)








File Prep

Retouching








File Prep

Retouching









File Prep

Retouching









File Prep

Retouching









File Prep

Retouching
(including changing the background in order to match other portraits)