Why is Retouching Photographs Necessary?

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Manipulating photographs have been around for years, but it has been increasingly more controversial in recent times. Celebrities and models are retouched in various forms—photographs, online advertisements, magazines, and more. There are more forms of advertisements today than ever before. Technology is becoming more and more advanced. With more advanced technology come more consumers, ranging in all ages. Younger generations are becoming more acquainted with new gadgets today. They are likely to be exposed to retouched photographs from online advertisements. Many models in these photographs are often retouched in such a way that negatively influences consumers, teenagers and young adults today. There should be rules and limitations for retouching digital photographs to decrease the amount of pressure and manipulation to society.
Photographers have the freedom to express their artistry to their audience. According to Cornell University Law School, they are allowed to exercise “the freedom of speech, or of the press.” By no means should retouching photographs should be illegal, but photographers should consider reducing the amount of retouching in images. Retouched photographs can greatly influence many teenagers and young adults on what they should and should not look like. By limiting retouching and applying standards to certain types of photographs, society is less likely to feel doubtful of their appearance. For example, excessively manipulating an image of a well-known celebrity such as Lady Gaga can greatly pressure many young women’s perception of beauty. Flawless skin, a disproportionate body shape, and a slim body are hard to come by to this day and age. Even celebrities feel the anxiety to be perfect and thin because th...

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...tatistics/>.
"First Amendment." LII / Legal Information Institute. N.p., n.d. Web. 03 May 2014. .
Frankel, Susannah. "Pixel Perfect: Why You Shouldn't Believe Your Eyes When It Comes to Those Glossy Images." The Independent. Independent Digital News and Media, 16 May 2008. Web. 06 May 2014. .
"Lady Gaga’s Vogue Cover Before And After Photoshop." StyleFrizz. N.p., n.d. Web. 06 May 2014. .
Wray, Dylan. "Top 10 Famous Photographers of All Time - Finish Photography." Finish Photography. N.p., 13 May 2013. Web. 06 May 2014. .

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