Today is an era where you can take perfectly good photos with just a smartphone or a small camera. However, when taking pictures, there are many times when the scene seen with the eye feels different from the result in the photo. Due to the influence of light direction, color temperature, exposure, etc., we often get images that are darker or have distorted colors than reality. In such cases, we can often express photos closer to the actual atmosphere or colors through a process called adjustment, and we can also create a new atmosphere different from reality, one that we desire.

There are two methods of photo correction: editing and retouching. While the two seem similar, there are distinct differences in their purpose and method. In this article, we will clearly point out the differences between these two concepts and learn how they can be utilized.

What is Editing?

Editing refers to the work done after shooting to improve the overall quality of a photo or to create the visually best result. If the brightness or color temperature of a photo feels a bit awkward, it is the process of refining it to be more natural and pleasing to the eye through minor adjustments.

Editing mainly involves processes such as adjusting brightness and contrast, correcting color temperature (white balance), adjusting saturation and vibrance, and cropping or straightening the image. The key is to maintain the overall feel and atmosphere of the photo while refining it more naturally. In most photo contests, correction within this scope is permitted.

What is Retouching?

Retouching, which we commonly refer to as 'Photoshopping,' is the work of transforming a photo into a more ideal form, such as selectively removing unnecessary elements or adding objects within the photo. In this case, rather than capturing reality as it is, it can be said to be a process of decorating the photo into an ideal form so that it looks more perfect.

Retouching mainly involves processes such as skin retouching and blemish removal for people, body shape and contour modification, removal of unnecessary objects in the background, color emphasis, addition or composition of elements. It focuses on achieving visual perfection or an ideal image, going beyond the factual reality of the photo. For this reason, retouching is generally prohibited in journalistic or documentary photography that aims to convey objective facts.

To aid understanding, let's look at the difference between editing and retouching based on actual photos

The photo above was taken in a lavender field. The left side is the original state without any color or brightness adjustments. Overall, it has a slightly bright and hazy feel, and the depth of color and contrast appear insufficient.

The right side is a photo that has gone through the editing process. The hazy color was adjusted to be clearer by increasing the contrast, and the overall atmosphere was improved by setting the color temperature (white balance) warmer. Through this process, the photo has become visually sharper and more natural.

Next is a photo comparing editing and retouching. The person and small white flowers in the photo have been removed, leaving only the lavender field. Also, the saturation of the trees and sky has been enhanced to further emphasize the purple color of the lavender. This retouching process modifies the constituent elements within the photo itself, creating a surreal image different from reality.

As such, while both editing and retouching are processes of refining a photo, their purposes and levels of intervention are clearly different. Editing can be described as 'tidying up' to show the scene as it is more clearly, while retouching is 'direction' that adjusts reality for an ideal image.

To convey the atmosphere or emotion of a photo, you don't necessarily need to go through elaborate modification work. This can be sufficiently conveyed with simple editing, and retouching can also be used depending on the message you want to express. However, it is important to keep in mind that retouching can potentially harm the authenticity of the photo. By appropriately selecting and utilizing these two methods depending on the situation and purpose, you can complete a photo that contains your unique perspective.

There is no set answer or formula for creating a good photo. What's important is observation and practice. From now on, try taking photos yourself and gradually attempt basic correction to find your own style.