Engaging in RAW portrait photography captures the authenticity of your subject, showing their pure reactions and emotions through the camera lens. However, retouching RAW portrait photos is what truly showcases the genuine beauty of your model as it further enhances your image to get the best results.
If you’re a beginner, we have a portrait photo retouching guide that you can check out to get the general rules in portrait editing.
In this blog, however, we discuss how you can leverage the benefits of working with RAW files and achieve professional-level results with portrait photography.
So, What are RAW Portrait Photography Files?
When we talk about RAW files, we refer to the unprocessed and uncompressed image files that contain all the data captured by the camera’s sensor. Unlike the popular JPEG file type that undergoes in-camera processing, RAW files remain untouched to preserve the maximum amount of image information.
Typically, professional portrait photo editing services prefer using RAW files as it stores a vast array of color data, tonal information, and details. This allows photographers and editors to make non-destructive adjustments and corrections without compromising their image’s quality.
How to Retouch RAW Portrait Photos
To leverage the properties of RAW files, here are some techniques and considerations that you can use in RAW portrait photo retouching:
1. Start with Basic Adjustments
Like in any retouching project, begin editing your RAW files by making basic adjustments that improve the overall image. You can start by checking the exposure, contrast, and white balance to ensure you have a naturally composed look.
Use adjustment layers and tools like levels and curves to fine-tune these parameters. Check if you need fewer highlights or shadows, if you want a warmer or cooler tone, or if you need to further sharpen the details in the photo. Pay attention to the background as well and ensure that it complements your subject without distracting from your photo’s focal point.
Editing these fundamental elements can create a solid foundation for the rest of your retouching process, so make sure you carefully go through this process.
2. Retain Skin Texture
When editing portraits, preserving your model’s skin texture is crucial in maintaining the authenticity and realism of the image. And with RAW files, you have the advantage of working with the highest level of image detail.
Use the spot healing brush or clone stamp tools to remove any of your subject’s blemishes and other imperfections. Apply minimal skin smoothing techniques and focus on reducing distractions without sacrificing the fine details that make your subject unique.
Be careful with over-blurring parts of your model’s skin, as it can make the skin look like it’s fake and rubbery, much like the skin of a mannequin than a person’s.
3. Enhance Eyes and Teeth
The eyes and teeth are prominent features in portrait photography as they are the focal point of the image. So, one of the common practices among professional photo retouching companies is to give special attention to the eyes and teeth during the retouching process.
Make your model’s eyes appear brighter and more vibrant by carefully adjusting their exposure and enhancing iris details. You can use selective dodging and burning techniques to add depth and dimension to the eyes.
For the teeth, employ gentle whitening techniques to improve the smile without exaggerating it. You want to strive for a natural-looking enhancement that doesn’t make the teeth appear unnaturally bright.
4. Fine-Tune Color and Tone
Color and tone adjustments play a significant role in portrait retouching. And with RAW files, you have the flexibility to fine-tune the color balance and tonal range precisely.
Consider the skin tones of your model and ensure they appear natural and flattering. Make various experiments with color grading to set your desired mood and aesthetic. Then, adjust the tonal range and bring out the details through your photo’s highlights and shadows, creating a balanced and visually appealing image.
RAW File Portrait Photo Retouching with Paper Boat Creative
Portrait photo retouching with RAW files offer an incredible opportunity to enhance and transform your images. And by utilizing these quick tips, you can bring out the best in your portraits and create stunning and authentic images that showcase the beauty of your subjects.
With that said, if you want high-quality photo editing services to help you with your RAW portrait photo retouching needs, consider partnering with us! Here at Paper Boat Creative, our extensive experience can bring your portraits to life through thoughtful and creative editing.
Get in touch with us today to learn more about how we can help you!
