Study programme 2025-2026Français
Digital Retouching - Part II
Learning Activity
CodeLecturer(s)Associate Lecturer(s)Subsitute Lecturer(s) et other(s)Establishment
A-ARTR-323
  • SUINEN Cathy
      • UMONS
      Language
      of instruction
      Language
      of assessment
      HT(*) HTPE(*) HTPS(*) HR(*) HD(*) Term
      FrançaisFrançais1212000Q2


      Content of Learning Activity

      LESSON 1: Fundamentals of Digital Retouching

      Introduction to digital retouching

      Understanding basic concepts.
      Familiarity with Photoshop, Lightroom, and InDesign.

      Image Manipulation

      Acquisition of basic scanning and retouching skills.
      Practice with architectural images.

      Artistic Layout

      Learning the principles of layout for presenting architectural projects.
      Creating attractive portfolios.

      LESSON 2: Advanced Digital Retouching

      Advanced use of Photoshop

      Mastering advanced retouching techniques specific to architecture.
      Creating realistic renderings.

      Architectural Project Management

      Preparing documents for architectural competitions.
      Layout of complex projects.

      Competition Practice
      LESSON 3: Projects and Competition Preparation
      Practical work on real projects

      Practice acquired skills on real architectural projects.
      Create professional portfolios.

      Prepare for architectural competitions

      Specific competition preparation techniques.
      Create visually captivating presentations for juries.

      LESSON 4: Final Project and Presentation

      Final Project

      Complete a complete architectural project, from concept to presentation.
      Advanced use of digital editing to create impressive visuals.

      Final Presentation

      Prepare and present the final project to a jury of experts.
      Use high-quality architectural computer graphics to illustrate the project. The presentation of work from both semesters in portfolio format, both physical and digital, is aligned with the layout guidelines taught in the second year (Bac 2):

      This program aims to prepare architecture students to effectively use digital editing and layout in their professional practice, with an emphasis on preparing for competitive exams and creating high-quality architectural presentations. Organization of the course content (by modules)

      Module 1 – Consolidation of the basics and development of expertise

      Review of the fundamentals of digital retouching (layers, masks, selection tools, global and local adjustments)
      Advanced photomontage techniques and targeted correction
      Application to visuals from personal or workshop projects

      Module 2 – Rendering and Atmospheres

      Creation of realistic or expressive effects (textures, shadows, lights, atmospheres)
      Retouching of plans, sections, perspectives, and 3D views for competitions or presentations
      Combination with other Adobe software to enhance renderings (Lightroom, InDesign)

      Module 3 – Project Communication & Graphic Storytelling

      Design of coherent spreads: information hierarchy, grids, visual contrasts
      Layout of complex projects (competition spreads, explanatory panels, project narratives)
      Adaptations for printed and digital media (posters, PDFs, Networks)

      Module 4 – Portfolio and Professional Materials

      Designing a personal portfolio (content, design, pagination)
      Adapting to academic and professional expectations (committees, master's degrees, internships, applications)
      Cross-reviews, feedback, file standardization

      Module 5 – Final Presentation and Role-Play

      Preparing a complete presentation (portfolio + project excerpts)
      Oral presentation of the project with visual aids
      Mock defense or presentation to a committee

      Required Learning Resources/Tools

      Not applicable

      Recommended Learning Resources/Tools

      Sans objet

      Other Recommended Reading

      "Layout Essentials: 100 Design Principles for Using Grids" by Beth Tondreau

      This book provides a comprehensive introduction to layout principles, including the use of grids, which is essential for creating well-structured portfolios.


      "Making and Breaking the Grid: A Graphic Design Layout Workshop" by Timothy Samara

      This is a valuable resource for understanding how to create visually appealing and effective layouts.


      "The Non-Designer's Design Book" by Robin Williams

      This resource is ideal for those looking to master the basics of layout and design, including typography usage.


      "Portfolio Design for Interiors" by Harold Linton

      While focused on interior design, this book offers practical advice on creating well-designed portfolios.


      Websites of Talented Designers: Explore online portfolios of professional designers to see how they present their work. You can find inspiring examples on websites like Behance, Dribbble, and Adobe Portfolio.
      Online Tutorials: Check out online tutorials on layout and portfolio creation. Platforms like LinkedIn Learning, Coursera, and YouTube offer a variety of courses and videos on this subject.
      Graphic Design Manuals: Basic graphic design manuals often include chapters on layout, which can provide valuable insights.

      Remember to also consult resources specific to your field, as architecture portfolios may have particular requirements and standards. By following these references, you will be better equipped to create professional and aesthetically pleasing portfolios that adhere to the layout standards taught in bac 2.

      Mode of delivery

      • Face-to-face

      Type of Teaching Activity/Activities

      • Cours magistraux
      • Conférences
      • Exercices dirigés
      • Utilisation de logiciels
      • Démonstrations

      Evaluations

      The assessment methods of the Learning Activity (AA) are specified in the course description of the corresponding Educational Component (UE)

      Location of learning activity

      • Université de Mons - Mons

      Location of assessment

      • Université de Mons - Mons
      (*) HT : Hours of theory - HTPE : Hours of in-class exercices - HTPS : hours of practical work - HD : HMiscellaneous time - HR : Hours of remedial classes. - Per. (Period), Y=Year, Q1=1st term et Q2=2nd term
      Date de dernière mise à jour de la fiche ECTS par l'enseignant : 23/10/2025
      Date de dernière génération automatique de la page : 14/03/2026
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      Tél: +32 (0)65 373111
      Courriel: info.mons@umons.ac.be