Before, the myth of photography doesn't lie was used in…
“Before, the myth of photography doesn't lie was used in order to cover up tricks. If I [make a] portrait [of] you, accommodate you, illuminate you, put make up on you or use a filter, am I not manipulating reality? The only difference is that now I can do it from the computer in the postclick instead of the preclick. If I decide to photograph something instead of something else, I also manipulate reality. Of course a photograph can lie or commit abuse, but it always could.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Photographs are inherently manipulative; editing or framing choices alter reality, yet this is a long‑standing truth of the medium.
In simple terms: Photos always involve some manipulation.
Recognize and question visual representation.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- journalism
- artistic creation
- social media
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you verify visual truth?
- What responsibilities do creators have?
Assuming photos are objective can mislead audiences.