Retoucher

Hogarth; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 50,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A global content production company is seeking a Retoucher in Johannesburg to handle high-quality post-production of digital images. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional attention to detail and advanced proficiency in Adobe Photoshop, collaborating with photographers and directors to deliver impactful visual content. A Bachelor’s degree in a related field and professional experience in similar roles are preferred, as well as a strong portfolio showcasing high-end retouching work.

Qualifications

• Professional experience as a Retoucher with a strong portfolio.
• Exceptional attention to detail and ability to work independently.
• Advanced proficiency in image manipulation software.

Responsibilities

• Perform advanced retouching techniques to enhance images.
• Ensure adherence to brand guidelines and quality assurance.
• Manage a high volume of images within tight deadlines.

Skills

Attention to detail

Expert proficiency in Adobe Photoshop

Strong aesthetic sense

Time management

Problem-solving mindset

Education

Bachelor's degree in Photography, Graphic Design, or related field

Tools

Adobe Photoshop

Adobe Lightroom

Capture One

Job description

Overview

Hogarth is the Global Content Production Company. Part of WPP, Hogarth partners with one in every two of the world’s top brands including Coca-Cola, Ford, Rolex, Nestlé, Mondelez and Dyson. With a breadth of experience across an extensive range of sectors, Hogarth offers the unrivaled ability to deliver relevant, engaging, and measurable content across all channels and media — both established and emerging. Our global team of over 7,500 craft and technology experts brings together creative, production and innovation to help clients navigate today’s evolving content experience.

WPP is the creative transformation company. Working at WPP means being part of a global network of more than 100,000 talented people dedicated to doing extraordinary work for our clients. We operate in over 100 countries, with corporate headquarters in New York, London and Singapore. WPP is a world leader in marketing services with deep AI, data and technology capabilities, and a commitment to fostering a culture of creativity, belonging and continuous learning.

What does a Retoucher do at Hogarth?

The Retoucher will be responsible for the high-quality post-production of digital images, ensuring they meet brand standards, creative vision, and technical specifications. This role requires a keen eye for detail, a strong understanding of color theory, composition, and advanced proficiency in image manipulation software. The Retoucher will work closely with photographers, art directors, and other creative team members to deliver visually compelling assets for various platforms including e-commerce, marketing campaigns, social media, and print.

Responsibilities

• Image Enhancement & Manipulation: perform advanced retouching techniques including skin retouching (non-destructive), color correction, exposure adjustments, sharpening, noise reduction, and object removal/addition; ensure consistency in color, tone, and overall aesthetic across images within a series or campaign; clean up product shots, remove dust/scratches, and accurately represent materials and textures; perform compositing, masking, and complex selections as needed; maintain and enhance image quality for web, print, and social outputs.
• Quality Assurance & Brand Consistency: adhere to brand guidelines, style guides, and technical specifications; conduct thorough quality checks to ensure accuracy, consistency, and artistic integrity before final delivery; collaborate with Art Directors and Photographers to understand and execute the creative vision.
• Workflow & Efficiency: manage and prioritize a high volume of images and projects within tight deadlines; organize and maintain digital asset libraries with proper naming conventions and file management; optimize workflows to improve efficiency without compromising quality; provide feedback to photographers on image capture quality to improve post-production efficiency.
• Collaboration & Communication: communicate effectively with team members regarding project status, challenges, and solutions; actively participate in creative reviews and provide constructive input; stay updated with industry trends, software advancements, and best practices in retouching.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Photography, Graphic Design, Visual Arts, or related field preferred, or equivalent practical experience.
• Experience: Professional experience as a Retoucher, preferably in e-commerce, fashion, beauty, advertising, product photography, or similar; strong portfolio demonstrating high-end retouching across models, products, lifestyle, etc.
• Technical Skills: Expert proficiency in Adobe Photoshop (layers, masks, smart objects, actions, non-destructive workflows); strong proficiency in Adobe Lightroom or Capture One for color correction and raw processing; familiarity with other Adobe Creative Suite applications (Illustrator, InDesign) is a plus; understanding of color management and ICC profiles; knowledge of file formats (JPEG, TIFF, PSD, PNG).
• Soft Skills: Exceptional attention to detail, strong aesthetic sense of light, shadow, and composition; ability to work independently and in a team; excellent time management and organizational skills; ability to receive and incorporate feedback constructively; problem-solving mindset and adaptability to changing priorities.

Our Hogarth Values

• Hands on
• Honesty
• Heart & Soul
• Happy Family
• Hungry
• Inclusion and Impact

WPP is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without discrimination or regard to particular characteristics. We are committed to fostering a culture of respect in which everyone feels they belong and has the same opportunities to progress in their careers.

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