Photoshop Ethics

I liked the discussion about Photoshop Ethics today. Some of the photos we saw clearly were in the wrong. Creating diversity or removing people you don't like is clearly ethically wrong. It takes great skill, and I am impressed with what we are able to do with technology. Makes me wonder about the moon landing conspiracy theory, maybe? However, I guess I am still a little confused about where to draw the line, though, in a high school yearbook.

I joke with kids sometimes that I hold all the power and I will Photoshop them out if they anger me, but obviously I wouldn't do that. What if, however, you have an excellent photo except for one little hand gesture? Or in the background students are making out? These seem like examples where it would be acceptable to make changes. Where is the line? And cropping. We crop shots all the time to better focus on one play or one group of people (my students are notorious for taking wide angle shots only). From the sounds of it today, that may be construed as unethical.

Also, some school photographers, like Lifetouch, offer a service where they basically remove blemishes and clear up skin. Students can pay for this option to make sure they look as perfect as possible in their school photos. Yes, this takes away the awkwardness of school photos and can help you feel better about yourself, but again, this seems 'iffy' to me ethically. Don't you want to look back on your awkward school photos as an adult and thank your lucky stars you grew out of it and laugh with friends and family? These awkward moments build character and help us grow up, or at least it did not me. And, it is prejudiced against the poorer students who wouldn't be able to afford such services. But that is another topic all together.

Kristin Garletts
Rio Rancho High School
Rio Rancho, New Mexico