Is Photo Manipulation a Form of Digital Art?

Yes, photo manipulation is considered a form of digital art. It involves the use of digital tools and software to alter or enhance photographs, creating images that may not reflect reality. This can include techniques like retouching, compositing multiple images, applying filters, or adding graphic elements. Photo manipulation can be used for various purposes, including artistic expression, advertising, and storytelling, and it often blurs the lines between photography and graphic design.

Photo manipulation as a digital art form allows artists to explore creativity in ways that traditional photography cannot. It is about more than just fixing imperfections; it's about creating a specific aesthetic or message. Photo manipulation can range from subtle adjustments such as color correction or sharpening to more dramatic changes such as compositing multiple images or creating surreal or fantastical scenes.

The process of editing photographs is itself an art. It is what has made many great photographers legendary. The ability to take the limits of a two-dimensional representation of a three-dimensional world and refine it through precise techniques has been a hallmark of skilled photographers. Photo editing is the changing of images—these can be digital photographs, illustrations, prints, or photographs on film. But it's also used to create entirely new images. Photo editing is sometimes called photo manipulation, especially when it is used to trick people.

Photographic manipulations and morphs can be considered forms of digital art. They allow for the creation of surreal and fantastical images through the use of various techniques. For example, take a look at the work of photographer J.K. Potter, who has been working in photo manipulation for over 20 years. Before that, there was the surrealist artist Max Ernst, who created manipulated images by splicing together old magazines. My own work has been inspired by both of these artists, combining and manipulating photographs digitally to create science fiction and fantasy art, striving to make creatures look as real as possible through photographs.

In conclusion, photo manipulation is a powerful tool for artistic expression and a significant part of the digital art landscape. It offers endless possibilities for creativity and innovation, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy. Whether for personal projects or commercial ventures, photo manipulation continues to be a vital and evolving form of digital art.