“The technique is not the image; the technique supports the image.”

(Jerry Uelsmann)

Manipulated photography is an interesting art form that combines traditional photographic techniques with digital image editing. This type of photography allows an artist to create an entirely new image from a single photograph, or to create a montage of combined images. Such photographs have become increasingly popular in the media, with artists creating both abstract and realistic images. Art manipulated photography manipulates a photograph in a number of ways. Through the use of digital editing technologies such as Photoshop, any number of features can be changed or added to photographs, such as colour, texture, background, or distortions. Such photographs can focus on abstract concepts, creating a unique piece of art that often has an emotional impact. Additionally, photographers using digital editing can create surreal images by combining parts of different photographs, creating images that don’t necessarily faithfully replicate reality but instead evoke an emotional resonance. Creating art manipulated photographs is an involved process, requiring a great deal of skill and artistic ability. Digital editing tools can offer a great number of options, but an artist often must make decisions about how to crop the photograph, how to adjust the balance of colours, and how to decide when to step away from the photograph – it is easy to become enthralled in the manipulation of the photograph, only to later realize it has been ruined by over-processing. Similarly, selecting the ideal source photograph is a key part of the creative process. A good source photograph should have the right composition, emotional tone, and details that can be highlighted or used in interesting ways. Ultimately, art manipulated photography allows photographers to explore both their own creativity and the power of digital manipulation to create entirely new images. By combining traditional photography with digital image manipulation, photographers can create visuals that cannot be produced with traditional photography alone and which look abstract and surreal. This type of creative expression is a powerful tool for communication, and for exploring and expressing one's own creativity.

Manipulated photography, also known as photo manipulation, is the process of altering or enhancing a photograph using various techniques and tools, such as digital software like Adobe Photoshop or physical techniques like collage or painting over the photo. The purpose of manipulated photography can be to create a different artistic expression, to improve or modify the composition or color of the original photo, or to deceive or mislead the viewer. Examples of manipulated photography include adding or removing elements from the photo, changing the colors or contrast, distorting the perspective, or combining multiple photos to create a new image. However, it is important to note that manipulated photography can blur the line between reality and fiction, and can be used for both creative and unethical purposes, such as political propaganda or fake news.  Is manipulated photography art? Yes, manipulated photography can be considered art. Photo manipulation is a form of digital art that involves the creation of new images through the alteration of existing photographs. It allows for the exploration of creative ideas and concepts, and can lead to innovative and imaginative images that might not have been possible with traditional photography. Photo manipulation has been used by artists for decades, with notable examples including the surrealist works of Man Ray, the photomontages of John Heartfield, and the pop art collages of Richard Hamilton. In recent years, the rise of digital technology has made photo manipulation more accessible and has led to the emergence of new forms of manipulated photography, such as digital painting, 3D rendering, and compositing. However, it is important to note that the artistic value of manipulated photography depends on the skill and creativity of the artist, as well as the intent and context of the work. Manipulated photography can also raise ethical issues related to truth and deception, especially when it is used to alter news or documentary photography. As with any form of art, the evaluation of manipulated photography as art is subjective and depends on the individual's taste and aesthetic preferences.

There are many artists who are well-known for their work in manipulated photography. Here are a few examples: Jerry Uelsmann: Uelsmann is considered to be one of the pioneers of manipulated photography. He creates surreal and dreamlike images by combining multiple negatives in the darkroom. Cindy Sherman: Sherman is a conceptual artist who uses photography as a medium to explore themes such as identity, gender, and cultural stereotypes. She often manipulates her own image to create characters and scenarios. John Baldessari: Baldessari is a conceptual artist who often incorporates photography in his work. He uses photomontage and other techniques to explore themes such as language, communication, and meaning. Andreas Gursky: Gursky is a German photographer known for his large-scale, highly-detailed images of contemporary landscapes and architecture. He often manipulates his images using digital technology to create a hyper-realistic effect. Erik Johansson: Johansson is a Swedish photographer and digital artist who creates surreal and imaginative images using a combination of photography and digital manipulation. His work often features surreal landscapes and impossible scenarios. These are just a few examples of the many artists who have made significant contributions to the field of manipulated photography. Each artist has their own unique approach and style, and their work can be found in galleries and museums around the world. ​