Services
I provide a range of professional image editing and retouching services, from subtle adjustments to detailed restoration and repair work. Every image is handled with care and precision, using non-destructive workflows that preserve the integrity of your original files. Whether you’re working with contemporary photographs or historical material, I tailor my approach to suit your images, your needs, and your intended use.
On this page you will find descriptions of image enhancement, retouch and advanced edits like image repair or object cutouts. I also outline pricing, workflow and what you can expect from working with me, so read on or click the link to jump straight to whichever section you need.
Image Enhancement
This is where I start with most projects. Image enhancement includes:
Adjusting exposure, contrast and colour balance
Reducing noise, sharpening and bringing out detail in over- or under-exposed areas
Improving overall visual clarity, especially in faded images
Straightening and cropping where needed
Preserving any available descriptive information (e.g. date, location, photographer, subject) in the image file metadata
This type of work is ideal for improving the quality of clean digital images or scans, and can be done quickly and efficiently across large batches.
Retouch
Retouching involves more detailed work, removing distracting elements within an image to clean it up without altering its essential character. This is particularly important when preparing images for print, or viewing at larger sizes. Retouch work may include:
Removing dust, fine hairs, sensor spots, and minor surface damage
Cleaning up backgrounds and darker areas
Repairing small tears or creases
As a heritage photographer my approach is always sensitive, for example where imperfections in an image tell part of the story I may recommend keeping them. The final editorial decision is always yours, however, and as with all my work original files are preserved and edits are fully non-destructive.
Advanced Edits
Most photos can benefit from enhancement and retouch, but some images or use cases require specialised treatment beyond surface-level fixes. What is possible depends largely on the nature of the images and what you need from them, so please contact me to discuss your specific requirements, but two of the most useful examples of this type of work are image repair and object cutouts.
Image Repair
Digitised prints or documents affected by major damage can be repaired. This may include:
Large marks, extensive creasing, major scratches or fading
Stains, discolouration or water damage
Torn or missing sections
This kind of work is more time-intensive and suitability of an image for repair efforts must be assessed on a case-by-case basis. I’ll flag any suitable candidates during the initial enhancement stage and discuss options with you.
Object Cutouts
Cutouts involve separating part of an image (typically the main subject or another object) from its background. This allows different treatments to be applied to either, or removal or replacement of the background. This can be particularly useful for graphic design projects or publications, when you may need an object cut out to transparency or a coloured backdrop. Depending on your needs and the complexity of the object, this can be done with a high level of precision or a quicker method if the project allows.
Getting Your Images to Me
If you already have good-quality digital images of your original prints or negatives then you can send these to me online. When we agree to work together, I will set up secure shared cloud storage which we can use to send files to each other. I accept most mainstream image file types, although RAW, DNG or high-resolution TIFF files (300ppi or more) give best results.
If you don’t have good-quality digital images of your photos, I can create them for you. Physical prints can be sent by recorded post or secure courier, which we will arrange once we agree to work together. I will scan your prints, slides or negatives and return them to you immediately once scanned. On delivery I will supply a copy of the untouched original scan as well as the processed and enhanced versions that I will create, both saved to your preferred file size and format.
If you’re comfortable scanning your own images and want maximum quality, I suggest the following scanner settings:
File type/format: TIFF
Colour mode: RGB
Colour profile: Adobe RGB (1998)
Bit depth: 16
Resolution: 300ppi for finished version the same size as the original, or 600ppi for finished version twice original size
Effects, filters and compression: None
Workflow And Tools
I handle every print as I would a museum object, and every digital image with care and precision, using non-destructive workflows to preserve the integrity of original files.
I use a high-resolution “archive grade” EPSON scanner to capture extremely detailed, colour-accurate scans of prints, slides or negatives. I then copy the scans and carry out all enhancement, retouch and editing work on the copies, leaving the original scans untouched.
My work is carried out using industry-standard photography tools such as Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop. My scanner and EIZO monitor are regularly calibrated using Calibrite sensors and targets, giving me a fully colour-managed professional workflow. I’ll deliver your edited images in whatever formats you need, including:
High and low resolution versions
Layered TIFF or PSD files
Custom sizes for print, web or archive use
I’ll keep you informed of progress at key stages, and notify you immediately of any issues or questions. Once your images are delivered, you’ll have up to three rounds of revisions at no extra charge so we can fine-tune everything to your satisfaction.
None of my work affects ownership or copyright of images, so you retain all existing rights over the original image files and any additional enhanced versions I create through my workflow. I can also ensure that your copyright line and image credit is saved in the image metadata if required.
New clients submitting five or more images can request a free proofing service: I’ll edit a sample selection and return them at no charge so you can assess the quality before deciding to proceed.
Pricing
Scanning: £1.30 per image
Image enhancement: £1.73 per image
Retouch: £3.71 per image
Image repair, cutouts and other advanced interventions: £26 per hour
Next Steps
Not sure what kind of treatment your images need? I’ll be happy to take a look and advise. You can contact me by email at info@kieroncheek.co.uk, via my Contact page, or on social media.
Take a look at my Portfolio page to see how my services work in practice.
Find out more about my background and approach on my About page.