Digital BW, The Print

> why are some folks so bent on making digital manipulation seem like
> cheating?

Mark,

Yes, some believe that, but I for one do not.  BUT...is it art or
photography?  Does it even matter?  To some, yes, and obviously to others,
no.  Either view isn't right or wrong.

I have no problem with someone manipulating the hell out of an image, and
with someone who doesn't do any (which is me), and I leave that as a
personal preference to the creator of the image.  I, personally, think my
images are just perfect with no filters, no digital manipulation (I don't
even USM), only setpoints and tonal curves and an occasional dust spotting
here and there.  But, that's me...and I don't impose my "standards" on
others creativity.

I also think some people do overdo the "fiddly" stuff though, and IMO, that
takes away from the image...but again, that's just my personal opinion.

Regards,

Austin