We, as working photographers, retouchers, and other visual production specialists, represent today’s independent creative professionals.

By the way you conduct your business and handle your professional communications, the general public and our clients will judge the industry and our kind as a whole.

This, in turn, affects how creative professionals are treated in business.

We want to be treated as respected professionals and paid fairly for our time and expertise. It is in our hands to set the expectations of those who will work with us.

This code is intended to promote the highest quality in all forms of visual content creation and to strengthen the public image of our profession.

To that end, Retouching Academy sets forth the following:

♦️ Strive at all times to upgrade and improve your knowledge and skill set, especially in times of rapid technological advancement such as today.

♦️ Treat your colleagues and clients with respect and dignity. Be fair, and of honorable character and reputation.

♦️ Share your knowledge, discoveries, and skills with fellow creators and your students, freely or as a service, to uplift the entire community.

♦️ Strive to inspire and encourage, not criticize or discourage those who also aspire to become independent creative professionals. Limit constructive criticism to the designated areas on the web (professional forums and community groups).

♦️ Each member of our community is expected to uphold the highest levels of professionalism, honesty, and integrity in all relationships with their colleagues, followers, and clients online and offline.