…isn’t the way I can be. I’ve noticed that the artists in this industry tend to carefully guard their technique. I understand the thought behind it and have no problems with others doing so but personally I will share my knowledge if I am sincerely asked.
I’ve seen some amazing retouchers share their technique on retouching forums and not worry that others will suddenly be just as good as they are and stealing their work. In this day you can pretty much learn anything you want really quickly. There are books and DVD’s that show everything you need to know. And then there is the internet.
I can show you how to retouch a face, get my colors, or how I light. Someone else using the exact same set of circumstances will just come up with something different even if their sole intention is to copy. Also, I will move forward and do something new. You should be moving forward constantly as an artist, and having stiff competition certainly gives you pressure.
I might someday copy Norman Jean Roy’s beautiful light and color, but that doesn’t mean I’m suddenly in Vanity Fair with my editorial. Context, time and place, and who you are as an artist mean everything. The thing is, nothing trumps experience and your own personal artistic expression. Just my two-cents. What’s your opinion?
2 Comments
Well written. I agree completely. Keeping secrets in this day and age could prove to counterproductive. At least in the business of freelance retouching.
Hi there, I was really happy to read this, and maybe its strange but I`ve got a question about yours retouching process? colour etc. For now Im an amateur user of a nikon d90 and I just want to learn new things:)
I find your work on flickr and you are great photographer! great work! just amazing!
If you can share some hints and informations I will be very grateful
Regards,
Radek.