Retouching Examples by Nic Nichols

Land Rover retouching by the Artful Union. Our goal: create a dark, ominous location with the vehicle powering through. Limited to an image of a similar model, and created the result in photoshop.

Retouching | Land Rover : The Road Less Traveled

Project Overview

Our client approached us to create a compelling image composite for their pitch to Land Rover. The objective was to visually demonstrate the brand's renowned rugged durability and all-terrain capability. Additionally, the image needed to convey a strong sense of safety and security while inspiring adventure and showcasing the limitless possibilities of owning a Land Rover.

Creative Process

Our team embarked on a thorough brainstorming session, generating concepts that would effectively blend robustness, safety, and adventure. We aimed to craft a visual narrative that not only highlights the Land Rover's core strengths but also captivates the audience with its potential for exploration.

Concept Selection

After evaluating various ideas, we chose to depict a Land Rover navigating through a challenging yet stunning landscape. The scene showcases the vehicle confidently overcoming rugged terrain, surrounded by awe-inspiring scenery that invites viewers to imagine their own adventures.This striking image encapsulates the Land Rover's durability and capability, while also emphasizing safety and the exhilaration of new discoveries. We are confident that this composite will resonate with Land Rover and enhance our client's pitch, effectively communicating the brand's essence and appeal.

Retouching | Beauty

Project Overview

Our boudoir photography client approached us to enhance an image for a personalized shoot. The goal was to create a stunning and empowering image that would highlight the subject’s natural beauty while maintaining the intimate and sensual essence of boudoir photography. The final image needed to showcase confidence, elegance, and allure, all while respecting the subject’s authenticity and personality.

Creative Process

Our team focused on enhancing the image while preserving the subject’s authenticity. We began by improving the skin texture, smoothing areas gently while keeping natural features like freckles and skin tone variations intact. We also fine-tuned the color grading to create a warm, inviting atmosphere that complements the intimate nature of boudoir photography. Additional attention was given to removing stray hairs, adjusting the fit of clothing where needed, and ensuring the overall composition felt balanced and polished.

Concept Selection

The retouching process focused on refining details: smoothing skin to eliminate minor blemishes, adjusting the color tones to create a soft, flattering glow, and removing distractions like stray hairs or clothing inconsistencies. This allowed the subject’s natural beauty to shine through, while the image as a whole felt cohesive and enhanced. We are confident that this refined image will highlight the intimate yet polished style of the boudoir session, resulting in an elegant and empowering final product for our client’s portfolio.

Rally Car retouching by the Artful Union. The goal- transfer the Mentos Mitsubishi Lancer from the tarmac to the dessert rally stage. Created in Adobe Photoshop and Creative Suite.

Retouching | Rally Car

Project Overview

A commercial photo studio approached us to create an impressive image composite for their automotive advertising pitch. The goal was to demonstrate their ability to seamlessly blend studio shots, stock photos, and landscaping into a compelling visual narrative. Specifically, they wanted to showcase a NASCAR vehicle driving through a dusty trail at night.

Creative Process

Our team engaged in an intensive brainstorming and planning session, aiming to combine various elements into a cohesive and striking image. We focused on creating a dynamic scene that highlights the photo studio's technical expertise and creative vision.

Concept Selection

We conceptualized a powerful visual featuring a NASCAR car tearing through a dusty trail under the night sky. The image combines the precision of studio photography with the raw, natural elements of stock and landscape photos. The vehicle is illuminated by its headlights, casting dramatic shadows and adding depth to the scene, while the swirling dust and rugged trail emphasize the intensity and speed of the moment.

Stormy ship retouching by the Artful Union. The goal was to create a world of heavy seas with a ship crashing through. In Photoshop, we transformed the ship on dry land to a night in a perfect storm.

Retouching | a storm at sea

Project Overview

Our client requested a visually striking composite for a spec ad, featuring a large cargo ship traversing rough waters. Given the logistical challenges and budget constraints of capturing such a scene in real life, our team was tasked with creating a realistic and compelling image using a composite approach.

Creative Process

We began with an in-depth brainstorming session, focusing on how to effectively blend various photographic elements to depict the power and resilience of a cargo ship navigating through turbulent seas. Our aim was to create a dramatic and immersive scene that would capture the viewer's attention.

Concept Selection

The final concept showcases a massive cargo ship battling through towering waves under a stormy sky. The ship is positioned at the heart of the image, emphasizing its scale and strength. The rough waters are depicted with swirling, churning waves, creating a sense of movement and intensity. The stormy backdrop adds to the dramatic effect, highlighting the ship's capability to endure and conquer the harshest conditions.

Cat retouching by the Artful Union. What would a cat do for the great taste of Temptations cat treats? How about play the accordion? With a little help from Photoshop, of course.

Retouching | Temptations Cat Treats

Project Overview:

Our advertising client requested a captivating and playful image to showcase the irresistible appeal of Temptations Cat Treats. The goal was to create a visual that highlights just how much cats adore these treats and the lengths they would go to obtain them.

Creative Process

To meet this brief, our team engaged in a lively brainstorming session to generate humorous and endearing concepts. We aimed for visuals that would be both attention-grabbing and heartwarming.

Concept Selection

After considering various ideas, we decided on a charming and whimsical scenario: a fluffy kitten playing an accordion. This delightful image encapsulates the playful nature of cats and their boundless love for Temptations Cat Treats. By focusing on a unique and entertaining portrayal, we are confident that this image will effectively capture the audience's attention and convey the client's message in a memorable and engaging manner.