Which is a typical first step in a professional retouching workflow for a product shot?

Which is a typical first step in a professional retouching workflow for a product shot?

• A. Remove dust and scratches
• B. Export with sharpening
• C. Apply color grade
• D. Import RAW

Answer: (D)

Starting with importing RAW is the best first step because RAW files contain the most image data and are designed for flexible, non-destructive editing. Bringing in the RAW data lets you set a correct baseline by adjusting white balance, exposure, and color without degrading quality, which is crucial for a product shot where accurate color and detail matter. It gives you latitude to balance highlights and shadows and to apply consistent tonal control across shots. Dust and scratches removal, while important, is typically done after these base adjustments, and color grading and final sharpening come later once the image look is established. Loading RAW first ensures you have the maximum data and control for all subsequent retouch steps.

Starting with importing RAW is the best first step because RAW files contain the most image data and are designed for flexible, non-destructive editing. Bringing in the RAW data lets you set a correct baseline by adjusting white balance, exposure, and color without degrading quality, which is crucial for a product shot where accurate color and detail matter. It gives you latitude to balance highlights and shadows and to apply consistent tonal control across shots. Dust and scratches removal, while important, is typically done after these base adjustments, and color grading and final sharpening come later once the image look is established. Loading RAW first ensures you have the maximum data and control for all subsequent retouch steps.