Retouchers, Here’s a Gift: Free DNG Files to Sharpen Your Skills

Written By Ehimetalor Unuabona

There’s been a recent surge in retouchers reaching out to me—and many fellow photographers—asking for “trial runs” using our images. But let’s be real: what many truly need are free DNG files for retouching—not just trials, but real, usable content to practice and level up their skills.

As someone working in both graphic design and photography, I’ve always taken the hands-on route. If I want to master the Pen Tool, I dive in and create. To understand how light changes a shot, I experiment in my own space. But for digital retouchers, that same accessibility isn’t always available.

Yes, retouchers can take their own shots—but most don’t want to become photographers. They want to practice retouching with real RAW image files and improve at editing someone else’s creative work. This is crucial when working on retouching portfolios that align with photographers, subjects, and most importantly—clients.

Here’s What I’m Offering—No Strings Attached

To support that need, I’m offering a curated batch of free DNG files for retouching (Link at the end of the Blog)—directly exported from original Fujifilm RAF RAW files. These are perfect for anyone looking to build a retouching portfolio, refine editing workflows, or test techniques in a professional, real-world context.

These are high-resolution DNG image files—delivered in full detail, with dynamic range and data intact. You can load them into Lightroom, Photoshop, Capture One, and other top editing platforms for practice, training, and portfolio presentation.
Below are the final exports of each image, giving you a clear reference for the standard I aim to achieve in my final output. Some of my earlier work involved minimal if not no retouching—often limited to colour grading—as I was still developing my skills in that area. However, skin retouching is something I’ve significantly refined over the past few years, particularly during the pandemic.

I’d like to provide you with a straightforward brief, if you would like to give it a try:

Please retouch the image/s with a focus on cleanliness and clarity, while preserving the natural skin texture. Avoid excessive smoothing or the removal/replacement of texture. The final look should align with a polished editorial retouch—refined but not artificial.

Here a Link to the DNGs and give it a go!

Technical Specs & Gear Behind the Files

The RAW data was captured on two powerful Fujifilm cameras—the X-H1 and the X-Pro2. Though they share sensors, their color science differs slightly, giving you a useful range for experimentation.

Camera Bodies:

  • Fujifilm X-H1

  • Fujifilm X-Pro2

Lenses Used:

  • Fujifilm XF18mm F2.8 – Clean, wide-angle precision

  • Fujifilm XF35mm F1.4 – Great for detail and shallow depth

  • Fujifilm XF18-55mm F2.8 – Versatile zoom for all-around practice

  • Fujifilm XF8-16mm F2.8 – Ultra-wide lens for dramatic compositions

Whether you're exploring image editing practice files or working on retouching portfolio examples, this selection has everything from sharp, tight portraits to immersive, scenic shots to challenge your skills.

What I Ask in Return

I’m not seeking payment, credit, or exclusivity. All I ask is that you follow these simple guidelines:

  • Metadata Retention: Please retain the original metadata embedded in the RAW files and ensure it remains intact when exporting to JPEG, PNG, or TIF.

  • Social Sharing: You’re free to post your edited images on any photo-sharing website or social media platform of your choice.

  • Tagging: You may tag or credit me if you like—it’s totally optional.

  • Usage Restrictions:

    • Strictly prohibited for commercial, resale, or editorial use.

    • Do not upload to stock sites like Unsplash, Pexels, Adobe Stock, or similar.

The copyright of these images remains with me. This release falls under a limited personal-use license—giving you permission to edit, practice, and use the files in your retouching portfolio. These are non-commercial RAW files, intended strictly for learning and showcasing your retouching ability.

Why This Matters for Your Growth as a Retoucher

These free RAW files for retouching practice are more than just downloads—they’re tools to help you grow. With real-world, high-quality source material, you can:

  • Master color grading and lighting balance

  • Work with authentic skin textures and imperfections

  • Gain hands-on experience editing Fujifilm RAW files

  • Build your confidence using non-commercial image editing projects

  • Enhance your retouching portfolio with diverse visual material

This is your chance to prove how well you can elevate someone else’s image—an essential skill when working with real-world clients and collaborators.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What kind of files will I receive?
You’ll receive DNG files—Digital Negatives exported from original Fujifilm RAF RAW files. These preserve full image quality for editing.

Q: Can I use these in my portfolio?
Yes, that’s what they’re for—retouching portfolio examples and editing practice. Just remember: commercial and editorial use is strictly forbidden.

Q: Do I need to credit you?
Not required. You’re welcome to tag me if you want, but there’s no obligation.

Q: Can I upload my edits to stock platforms?
No. Uploading to stock sites (Unsplash, Pexels, Adobe Stock, etc.) is not permitted.

Q: What platforms support DNG files?
These DNG files work on all major editors—Lightroom, Photoshop, Capture One, and more.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're just starting out or sharpening your craft, access to high-resolution DNG files for editing can be a game-changer. These files are here to help you build, explore, and master your retouching skills in a way that’s authentic and non-commercial.

So download them, explore them, and let your creativity shine.

Ehimetalor Unuabona
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