Where should the line be drawn? | Our view on ethical v unethical photo retouching / Photoshopping / editing

Photo retouching can mean different things to different people. It is diverse, multifaceted, and something that's been around since the 1800's.

Types of retouching | Education

Cosmetic Retouching: used to remove "imperfections" and blemishes, whiten teeth, create flawless skin, correct hair and make up.

Creative Retouching: generally used for artistic effect, such as changing composition, colour grading, and altering lighting.

Commercial Retouching: primarily used for product photography - usually to enhance a product, or remove unwanted background objects.

Unethical Retouching

There has always been on ongoing debate as to where the line is drawn with retouching / editing. It can be a powerful tool to enhance images, however if used unethically, it can be deceitful.

Body image issues, and mental heath

Unethical retouching, including body manipulation, can contribute to negative body image issues, and mental health amongst consumers - especially young people and children.

When images are retouched to show unrealistic beauty standards, viewers are exposed to unattainable and impossible levels of "beauty".

UK law does not enforce a creator to mark an image as 'retouched/edited'. Therefore viewers - especially the young or impressionable - may believe this "beauty" is real. This can lead to mental health issues such as body dysmorphia, social anxiety, or depression.

Deception

If viewers are being shown an image that has been dramatically changed, creating a misleading version of a subject, this can lead to a loss of trust and credibility of a brand / creator / business.

Ethical Retouching

Transparency is key!

We believe photo retouchers and brands should be transparent as to what changes have been made to photographs, ensuring the final result accurately represents the subject being portrayed.

This includes being mindful of the potential impact of retouched images, and striving to promote body positivity and inclusivity.

Our View

We do not partake in, or promote unethical photo retouching.

ALL images you see on our website, social media, and in our Studio are un-edited / un-retouched.

As cheesy as it sounds, we truly believe our subjects are beautiful.

Every mark, and wrinkle tells the story of you.

Your loved ones will want to remember you; the real you.

No-one wants a photo of themselves that loved ones look at, then whisper to each other - "she looks nothing like that in real life!"

We use soft, in-direct studio lighting, which is very flattering.

If you are blessed with a spot on the day of your shoot, we can of course discuss fixing that. However none of your images will be retouched in any way prior to this discussion.

We politely decline requests for retouching that involves any manipulation to the body or face.

Thank you for taking the time to read our blog. If you have any ideas, or interest about a particular topic - drop it in the comments below!

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