My philosophy: retouching helps to best represent a subject by toning down the distractions you wouldn't notice while interacting with the subject in real life. An image should represent the authentically unique character of the subject and should give the subject pride and confidence in who they are and how they present themselves.

I take into account specific client retouching requests, respecting that some people prefer a more subtle approach while others seek a highly-polished and perfected final product. Sometimes a face swap, background change, or garment adjustment can help, too.