Question

25 pts Let’s say you are given the task of retouching a famous model’s photograph. To what extent will you retouch the image? In your opinion, what ethical issues should be the red line when it comes to the retouching of images?

Answer 1

The concept of retouching photos is a touchy subject.

Photographers must ask themselves: When does retouching a photo cross over into going too far? Is editing a photo to convince viewers of something false an acceptable practice? Does retouching a photo set unrealistic and false expectations for consumers?

We’ve outlined both sides of the argument – and want you to decide for yourself. What side are you on?

It’s a Lie: The Argument Against Retouching
Programs like Adobe Photoshop allow users to make changes to pictures so they look slightly or completely different from their original appearance. These programs can enhance certain features, diminish or completely erase certain features and even add features.

When magazines, businesses and advertisements retouch photos, a common argument is that this delivers a false message to the consumer. The photo is not truthful and therefore it is lying to the consumer.