Manipulation and restoration

Sometimes we have to push around a pile of pixels to get it looking really good, dont we? There's always the one guy in the family portrait that didn't wear khakis and a white shirt like everyone else, or the otherwise perfect photo has the photographers elbow sticking into the frame. Glare on eyeglasses, braces on the teenager who hates them, lens flare, sweaters covered in dog hair, strobe reflections in the window, the dreaded red "EXIT" signs that seem to be over everyones head in reception halls, the list goes on forever.

This is a service that I really need to quote on a per-image basis. However, I can give a rough cost estimate of some of the most commonly requested manipulations:

Simple Head swap (meaning the original head and the "swap" head are in the same position, and the lighting, exposure, and composition are identical): $5.00

Complex head swap (one or two factors are different with the "swap" head image, such as exposure or magnification): $10

I do not recommend attempting to use a head from a different pose or lighting situation. Also, sometimes it is much simpler (read: cost effective) to do several "simple" swaps than one very difficult one. I do this when there are several adults in roughly the same position, and one wild child who is the "very complex" swap that is desired.

Modifying the color of clothing: $10 to $25

Glass glare: This can be anywhere from $10 to over $100, depending on the amount of detail that is obscured and the final image size. I really need to quote this after seeing the image.

Braces removal: This can get pricey as well. I have done it for $10 when the braces are the tiny or transparent style, but teens usually have more substantial braces that cover more of the teeth and that can cost $25 to $75.