Retouch: meaning, definitions and examples
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retouch
[ ˌriːˈtʌʧ ]
photo editing
To retouch means to improve or enhance the appearance of an image, typically by making small adjustments to its details. This process often involves editing features such as color balance, brightness, and contrast to achieve a desired look. In photography, retouching can also include removing blemishes and imperfections from the subject's skin. Overall, retouching aims to present a more polished or refined version of the original image.
Synonyms
edit, enhance, improve, modify
Examples of usage
- She decided to retouch her portrait before submitting it to the gallery.
- The photographer always retouches his pictures to enhance their quality.
- He learned how to retouch images using specialized software.
- Before printing, they retouched the wedding photos for a more appealing look.
makeup artistry
In the context of makeup, retouching refers to the act of applying makeup or touch-ups, usually to refresh or fix an existing makeup look. This can include reapplying foundation, fixing eyeliner, or adding blush to maintain a fresh appearance. Retouching is often necessary for performers or models during photoshoots or events to ensure their makeup looks its best throughout the duration.
Synonyms
reapply, refresh, revise, touch up
Examples of usage
- The artist had to retouch the model's makeup during the shoot.
- She always carries a compact to retouch her makeup on the go.
- During the fashion show, they had a team ready to retouch the makeup.
- He used a setting spray to ensure he wouldn't need to retouch his makeup later.
Translations
Translations of the word "retouch" in other languages:
🇵🇹 retocar
🇮🇳 फिर से छूना
🇩🇪 retuschieren
🇮🇩 mengoreksi
🇺🇦 ретушувати
🇵🇱 retuszować
🇯🇵 修正する
🇫🇷 retoucher
🇪🇸 retocar
🇹🇷 düzeltmek
🇰🇷 리터칭하다
🇸🇦 إعادة لمس
🇨🇿 retušovat
🇸🇰 retušovať
🇨🇳 修饰
🇸🇮 retuširati
🇮🇸 endurbæta
🇰🇿 ретуштау
🇬🇪 რეტუშირება
🇦🇿 retuş etmək
🇲🇽 retocar
Word origin
The origin of the word 'retouch' can be traced back to the mid-19th century, derived from the prefix 're-' meaning 'again' and 'touch', which comes from the Old French 'touchier', meaning 'to touch'. Initially, the term was primarily used in artistic contexts, especially in painting and photography, where artists would 'touch up' their works. Over time, as technology advanced, the application of retouching expanded to various fields, including digital photography and makeup artistry. With the advent of digital editing software, retouching has become a vital skill for photographers and designers, allowing for extensive alterations to images while retaining their essence. This evolution reflects the broader trends in visual culture, where perfection and aesthetic appeal have become increasingly emphasized.