How to Organize a Retouching Workflow

A repeatable workflow turns a chaotic shoot into a predictable output pipeline.

The Core of Any Workflow

A workflow is a set of rules for where files go, how they're named, and who reviews them. You ingest, select, edit, review, revise, and deliver. Every step has a folder and a naming convention so no image ever goes missing between stages.

Retouchable collapses several of those steps into one. Your upload, render, and export all live in a single library, so you don't need a byzantine folder tree or a naming scheme to keep track of versions.

How It Works with Retouchable

Ingest to a Dated Folder

Every shoot goes into a YYYY-MM-DD folder with client and project name. No exceptions.

Cull Before Editing

Pick your hero shots first. Editing rejects is wasted time.

Separate Selects, Working, and Final

Three subfolders prevent confusion: Selects for approved shots, Working for live edits, Final for delivered files.

5 Workflow Tips

Version in the Filename

sku_hero_v02.jpg tells you everything. Avoid 'final', 'final_final', and 'final_actually' at all costs.

Lock Your Delivery Format

Decide on file type, size, and naming before you shoot, not after. Avoids last minute reformatting.

Keep Review Notes in One Place

Client feedback scattered across email and Slack is how images get missed. Use one tool and stick to it.

Archive After Delivery

Move completed jobs to archive storage after 30 days. Keeps your live drives fast.

Build Templates for Recurring Clients

Same client, same naming, same output specs. Save a template instead of setting it up every time.

One Library, Every Stage

Ingest, edit, review, and deliver without building a new folder tree for every shoot.

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Why Retouchable for Editing Fundamentals

Unified Library

Uploads, renders, and exports all live in one searchable library. No folder tree required.

Version History

Every render is saved automatically so you never lose an earlier take.

Batch Export

Deliver a whole set to the client at matching specs in one operation.

Client-Ready Links

Share a gallery link for client review without manually uploading to a separate tool.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I still need a folder structure with cloud tools?

A simple local ingest folder is smart for backups. Beyond that, Retouchable's library handles the rest.

How do I handle revisions?

Retouchable saves every render, so earlier versions are always recoverable. Name exports with version numbers for clarity.

Should I back up to external drives?

Yes. A 3-2-1 backup rule applies to everything: three copies, two media types, one offsite.

How do I handle multiple clients at once?

Tag uploads by client in Retouchable and filter the library by tag. Keeps work separated without juggling folders.

Ready for a Calmer Workflow?

Let Retouchable handle version control and delivery.