How can you determine the scope of work for a photo retouching project?

1 Define the purpose

The first step is to understand the purpose of the photo retouching project. What is the goal of the client? What are they trying to achieve with the edited images? How will they use them and where will they display them? The purpose of the project will influence the level and style of retouching, as well as the format and resolution of the final files. For example, a photo retouching project for a wedding album will have different requirements than one for a fashion magazine.

2 Assess the quality

The next step is to assess the quality of the original images that you will be working with. How many images are there and what is their size, resolution, and format? How are they composed, exposed, and focused? How much noise, distortion, or color cast do they have? The quality of the original images will affect the amount and difficulty of retouching, as well as the tools and techniques that you will need to use. For example, a photo retouching project with low-quality images will take more time and effort than one with high-quality images.

3 Identify the needs

The third step is to identify the needs of the client and the images. What kind of retouching does the client want and expect? What are their preferences and standards? What are the specific issues or problems that need to be fixed or improved in the images? The needs of the client and the images will determine the scope and complexity of retouching, as well as the expectations and feedback that you will receive. For example, a photo retouching project with minimal needs will have a narrower scope and simpler retouching than one with extensive needs.

4 Estimate the time

The fourth step is to estimate the time that you will need to complete the photo retouching project. How long will it take you to retouch each image and the whole project? How much time do you have available and when is the deadline? How flexible or strict is the client with the schedule? The time that you will need to complete the project will influence the price and the delivery of the retouching, as well as your workload and availability. For example, a photo retouching project with a tight deadline will have a higher price and a faster delivery than one with a relaxed deadline.

5 Set the price

The fifth step is to set the price that you will charge for the photo retouching project. How much will you charge per image or per hour? How will you invoice and receive payment from the client? How will you handle revisions or changes in the scope of work? The price that you will charge for the project will reflect the value and quality of your retouching, as well as your experience and reputation. For example, a photo retouching project with a high level of retouching will have a higher price than one with a low level of retouching.

6 Communicate the scope

The final step is to communicate the scope of work for the photo retouching project to the client. How will you explain and justify the scope of work to the client? How will you present and deliver the retouched images to the client? How will you handle feedback and revisions from the client? The communication of the scope of work will ensure that the client understands and agrees with the retouching process, as well as the results and outcomes. For example, a photo retouching project with a clear and detailed scope of work will have a smoother and more satisfying communication than one with a vague and ambiguous scope of work.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?