Re: [APML]: Astrophotography or Astro-Art?

[Gregory David Stempel <fyrframe@ptinet.net>]

The Astro-Photography Mailing List
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Jerry


>>>>Well sure it does. If I burn a distracting background or person out of existence in a 
>print, which as a news photographer I am sure you have done (as have I), then you have 
>altered the content.<<<

Of course you have altered the content at that point. My comments were
more along the lines of dodging or burning to clarify existing
information, not to alter the context of the image.

Frankly, that comment has me disturbed. You have shot news, and removed
subject content? Which publications have you shot for?? In my field,
that is considered a firing offense. Shooter lose their jobs over an
alteraton of that nature. I know a shooter who lost his job just for
altering the license plate of a car at a ralley.

In keeping with the context of your statement, "as a news photographer"
No. I have never done that, nor do I advocate anyone finding acceptance
in that behavior. It has been done, granted. Please don't tell me that
is all the justification you need.

Cropping is a good example. If you crop out an annoyinng star have you
altered the content of that image? Of that galaxy? No. You have simply
highlighted the portion of that image which most interests you. If the
same crop tells those who view your work the star did not exist, then it
becomes a fundemental lie. Therefore you have altered the context and
content.

Take care Jerry.
Gregory david Stempel