Negative Retouching
Quick Overview
Negative Retouching is the directapplication by brush of dyes to a negative. Brushes, dyes, opaque and abrading tools are all used by retouching artists. Negative Retouching is an additive process of building up layers of dye to match desired density. The color of the dye used neutralizes the unwanted tones (red blemishes or purple-blue under the eyes for example).
Negative Retouching only adds density to the negative, it cannot reduce density. Therefore glass glare, reflections or hot spots cannot be corrected by negative retouching. These require Print Artwork. Negative Retouching is also not meant for large areas, like shadows on a wall behind a family group.
What can be retouched
- Blemishes
- Smile lines
- Veins
- Crow's feet
What will be normally retouched
All blemishes are removed (but not moles without a specific request), dark shadows under eyes are lightened and smile lines, if especially dark, are modified. Special instructions are not required to ensure this basic retouching is done.
Head sizes on negatives
The smaller the head size, the less retouching that can be done. On a medium format negative, a head size equal to a dime can be retouched, however, only large areas such as shadows under the eyes can be modified. The minimum retouchable head size is 1/8". Very small head sizes can only be retouched with digital retouching.
Special Instructions
- State special requests as clearly as possible. Please Do Not use terms like "fix hair" or "note mole" because they are open to interpretation.
- Send a proof whenever possible. It doesn't need to be from the exact same pose. If you have lots of instructions, consider making a xerox and writing your notes on it (still try to send a photographic proof too).
- Moles will not be removed Unless specifically requested. Retouching large or very dark moles cannot be done seamlessly. Print Artwork is Always needed to blend. Consider digital retouching instead.
- Groups - If you want only some of the individuals in a group to be retouched you must indicated this using the word Only (ie. "Adults Only"). Without such direction, we will retouch all individuals in the group.
Print Artwork May be required when
- Retouching very small headsizes.
- Enlargements (8x10 & larger) are printed.
- There is an extreme density ratio between highlights and shadows (ie. 1:6). For smooth retouching the ratio of shadow to highlight density should be in the 1:3 range.
- The subject(s) have severe acne.
- Always on mole removal (consider digital retouching).
- Always if opaque has been used (see below).
Opaquing
Opaquing creates an area that prints white, with no image. Electric cords, wall plugs, etc. cannot be removed with dyes but they can be opaqued. Print Artwork is Always Required if the negative is opaqued (even on hi-key images). Also consider digital retouching service, especially if a large quantity of prints are desired.