I have been doing web development, graphic design & advertising for about 20 years. I have been doing performance, portrait and fine art conceptual photography for about 3+ years. I am making the following points in hopes that my experience with this issue will set your mind at ease.
I have never lost a portrait client because I used PhotoShop on their images.
I have never lost a performance photography gig because I used PhotoShop on the images.
I have never lost a fine art print sale because I used PhotoShop on the image.
I have never had an artwork rejected in a photography competition because I used PhotoShop on the image.
I have never had a client request that I not use PhotoShop in the creation of their images.
I can think of no other reason why you should be concerned about using PhotoShop in the creation of your images.
(Seriously guys… this is a short blog post on purpose… I am trying to make the point that unless the person hiring you cares, then carry on using what ever program you want. Use any and every program that will help you make a decent living. Other photographers saying you are not a good photographer because you use “x” program doesn’t hurt you in any way. What could they possibly do? Tell people you retouch your photos? Clients prefer that 9 times out of 10 anyway. That would boost your sales. Not hurt them. Unless other photographers are paying your bills, they don’t get a say.)
I’m pretty sure if I DIDN’T use Photoshop I’d lose a few gigs. 😉
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Ha! My abilities in post processing have gotten me just about every gig I’ve ever had. True. Story.
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I totally agree with one exception. Documentary photography aka journalism that is claiming to be a true document of an event should not be altered. Imagine the consequences of war photographers and journalists photoshopping their images (and I know they do).
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I can only speak to my personal experience. I don’t know squat about photojournalism or its ground rules. However, I am sure you are right. I think the rule of following your client’s wishes would apply here as well. I don’t condone deceptive business practices in any way, shape or form. That includes retouching outside the knowledge and consent of your client. That is a sure fire fast track to unemployment and a ruined reputation.
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