Retouch is a short documentary that sheds light on the highly covert world of professional image editing.

 

Featuring interviews and technical demonstrations with three generations of New York City-based photo “retouchers,” the film unpacks their craft and work on campaigns for fashion brands such as Valentino and Dior, and celebrities like Naomi Campbell, Natalie Portman, and Salma Hayek.

 

As beauty standards evolve to embrace more “natural” looks and greater diversity, Retouch asks why retouching persists, highlighting the growing moral tensions between retouchers, their advertising clients, and consumers.