Meet the Jury

How did you find your way into retouching, and what has kept you in it?

I worked as a model for four years and have been on both sides of the camera. When I wanted to live in my own country instead of moving around for contracts, I started looking for something I would enjoy doing. Since I already knew Photoshop, I thought it would be a great idea to learn it more deeply. I've always loved fashion magazines since I was a kid, and fashion has been with me for many years.

I stick with retouching because I love it - it's beautiful, and there's always something new to learn. You never just stay in one place, you're always growing.

How long have you been working in the industry, and what phase of your career are you in now?

I've been in the fashion industry for ten years, and I've been working as a retoucher for seven years. I started with private lifestyle projects, and now I work with major beauty brands in France, Germany, and the USA. At this stage, I feel confident and fully independent as a retoucher, managing projects on my own and shaping my own style.

What kinds of projects or environments have shaped your standards the most?

Working with top photographers really shaped my standards. Working with major beauty brands gave me a solid foundation for the kind of retouching I do. That's why I focus on natural, invisible retouching - where you can't see the edits - as well as color grading that makes the product stand out and grabs attention.

What made you want to be part of the Retoucher of the Year jury?

I wanted to try being part of the Retoucher of the Year jury. I've been in the industry for a long time, and sometimes other retouchers ask me to look at their work and give feedback, which I really enjoy. As a freelancer, I'm basically on my own in my team - aside from photographers, of course - so I'm also excited to connect with a community of like-minded professionals and expand my network.

When working on major campaigns compared to smaller projects, what truly changes?

I notice a difference in approach and briefs. Smaller projects give more freedom and room for creativity, while bigger campaigns come with precise technical requirements and a clear vision of the final result. I enjoy both approaches - in smaller projects, I can add my own creative touch, and in bigger ones, I focus on delivering the exact mood and look needed. I like the variety that comes from working in both ways.

When you open a new file, what do you look at first before touching anything?

The first thing I check is the image size and resolution.

When working at scale, how do you make sure nothing is missed?

I always check the brief first. For large projects, I create a workflow for how I'll tackle the project and in what order. I also double - or even triple - check the images before sending them.

Beyond technical ability, what really determines whether someone builds a sustainable career?

First of all, I think it's having a genuine curiosity and interest in the field. If someone wants to learn, experiment, and really understand what they're doing, they can build a career. Retouching is more than just technical skills - it's a whole vision. You need to develop a refined sense of color, apply creativity, and use your imagination. Retouching is a creative process, and just completing technical tasks won't help you grow.

I think if someone is more of a melancholic type, they can stay focused on one task for a long time, which can actually make things a bit easier for them compared to extroverts.

What do you think this industry needs more of right now?

Community and respect for each person who participates in production and post-production.

What is one insight you wish more retouchers understood early in their career?

First, find your favourite photographers and really study their work - absorb their aesthetics and notice the details. Use that as a foundation to develop your own style, and make sure to try recreating it in your own work.

A final note from us

Yana's background as a model gives her a perspective on retouching that is genuinely rare - she knows what it feels like to be on the other side of the image, and that informs everything about how she approaches the craft. Her commitment to natural, invisible results, her love of community, and her enthusiasm for helping others develop their eye make her a distinctive and valuable presence on this panel.

We are thrilled to welcome Yana Hubanova as a member of the jury for Retoucher of the Year.

About Yana Hubanova

Country: Ukraine

Years in the Industry: 7

Primary Specialization: Beauty and Fashion Retouching

Main Expertise: Skin, Clothes Retouching for Campaign and Editorial, Color Grading

Website: retouchyanahub300f.myportfolio.com

Instagram: @retouch.yana_hub