I just started retouching with photoshop, after watching a ton of tutorial videos, getting some advice from friends, and exploring the layout and tools this is what I've come up with. Just wanted some valid opinions and constructive tips on what not to do next time. Also I got quite frustrated while using to sharpen tool, it was really difficult for me to tell when to stop so this may have come out a bit too sharp.

I like it. I think you are on the good track, especially for a beginner. One thing you may take into account is that you lost detail in her shirt. For an image like this I would leave some of the details but either way I think you are on the good track. Keep it up.

Really? From the RAW file? I would expect that it should not be too much noise. What software do you use?

Hi there!

As Krunoslav points out, you have done an appreciable job for a beginner. :-)

But, I am not a big fan of the liquify action you applied on there.

And watch out the hand - the before looks better.

As for the jacket - why don't you raise the blacks to say by 3 stops and then mask it on the coat/dress part only?  It won't add noise that way.

not bad at all for beginer dont use sharpen tool for sharp try high pass methode is way better i like the tones corection but the liquify job not good but that happend n the in the begining to everyone be gentle when using liquify u can overdo it and the hair you can paint some hair to improve , but you did verry good im just giving an opinion ask pro retoucher but for 1st u did fabulous

Highly impressive for a beginner. Keep at it, I think you are the type to catch on very quickly. Look forward to seeing more work from you.