Retouching for libraries and museums

For larger numbers of images, for example coming out of a scanning process, or large collection of existing photos, it is important to understand the clients objectives.

When photographs or documents are scanned, they need to be cleaned up for dust and scratches. Simple cleaning up is usually a straightforward task that lends itself to a degree of automation.  But if a library has been scanning important works of art or historic images it is not obvious that the it is low value routine task requiring little skill.

The retouching process has to be well defined. At Global Image Lab is starting with the client's images, how they are stored, how they are going to be delivered, what the expectations are, who is doing the retouching, how they are going to be informed and trained about the client's expectations, who is going to monitor the quality and productivity of their work, how the images are going to be delivered back to the client, and what the acceptance process is.

Global Image Labs is well placed to take on small high priority tasks or large volume projects where the project management element is vital. Beyond the skills of the retoucher, there are other important elements of a robust process that are vital. Appropriate technology for the process is essential. E-mail and a computer with Photoshop may be perfectly adequate for some jobs. When large volumes of images are being processed, project management, data security, connectivity and quality assurance become extremely important.

If you are looking for more information on retouching, visit our retouch gallery