Black Swan-esque Retouch

[BlueInGreen]

Here's my first real attempt at a retouch of any kind. The eye make-up was pretty difficult and I still don't think it looks how it should! Any idea what the issue is?

Before



After

 

[Paul]

Great idea, for me the eyes are now way to dark and look to big against the almost totally saturated skin tones, as does the clothing.

 

[BlueInGreen]

Yeah you're right. They eyes are way too dark in comparison with the rest of the image.

Here's an update.

 

[ibclare]

Yeah, shadows and highlights. Per Paul's suggestion it looks a lot better. But you might want to add a few highlights to follow the contours of the eye sockets, then touch in a few shadows as well. Otherwise, WHOA! The white queen from Lion, Witch, and Wardrobe! Creepy cool . . .

 

[Paul]

Much better my friend.

 

[chrisdesign]

Awesome result!

 

[BlueInGreen]

Thanks guys. Tried to define the shape of the eye socket/brow with dodging/burning. I added some shadowing to her face as well as some earrings just for fun. Also added some overlays to bring out some detail in the clothing.