Retoucher at Hogarth

• The Retoucher will be responsible for the high-quality post-production of digital images, ensuring they meet brand standards, creative vision, and technical specifications. This role requires a keen eye for detail, a strong understanding of color theory, composition, and advanced proficiency in image manipulation software. The Retoucher will work closely with photographers, art directors, and other creative team members to deliver visually compelling assets for various platforms including e-commerce, marketing campaigns, social media, and print.

Requirements

Image Enhancement & Manipulation:

• Perform advanced retouching techniques including skin retouching (non-destructive), color correction, exposure adjustments, sharpening, noise reduction, and object removal/addition.
• Ensure consistency in color, tone, and overall aesthetic across all images within a series or campaign.
• Clean up product shots, remove dust/scratches, and ensure accurate representation of materials and textures.
• Perform compositing, masking, and complex selections as needed.
• Maintain and enhance image quality for various output formats (web, print, social).

Quality Assurance & Brand Consistency:

• Adhere strictly to brand guidelines, style guides, and technical specifications for all retouched images.
• Conduct thorough quality checks to ensure accuracy, consistency, and artistic integrity before final delivery.
• Collaborate with Art Directors and Photographers to understand the creative vision and execute it effectively.

Workflow & Efficiency:

• Manage and prioritize a high volume of images and projects within tight deadlines.
• Organize and maintain digital asset libraries, ensuring proper naming conventions and file management.
• Optimize workflows and processes to improve efficiency without compromising quality.
• Provide feedback to photographers on image capture quality to improve post-production efficiency.

Collaboration & Communication:

• Communicate effectively with team members regarding project status, challenges, and solutions.
• Actively participate in creative reviews and provide constructive input.
• Stay updated with industry trends, software advancements, and best practices in retouching.

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Photography, Graphic Design, Visual Arts, or a related field preferred, or equivalent practical experience.

Experience:

• Professional experience as a Retoucher, preferably in [e-commerce, fashion, beauty, advertising, product photography, etc.].
• A strong portfolio demonstrating expertise in high-end retouching across various subjects (e.g., models, products, lifestyle).

Technical Skills:

• Expert proficiency in Adobe Photoshop (layers, masks, smart objects, actions, non-destructive workflows).
• Strong proficiency in Adobe Lightroom or Capture One for color correction and raw image processing.
• Familiarity with other Adobe Creative Suite applications (Illustrator, InDesign) is a plus.
• Understanding of color management principles and ICC profiles.
• Knowledge of different file formats (JPEG, TIFF, PSD, PNG) and their optimal use.

Soft Skills:

• Exceptional attention to detail and a meticulous approach to work.
• Strong aesthetic sensibility and understanding of light, shadow, and composition.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Excellent time management and organizational skills.
• Ability to receive and incorporate feedback constructively.
• Problem-solving mindset and adaptability to changing priorities.