The request for photographic evidence to verify a claim or event has become a popular assertion: “No pictures, no proof.”

In a society where technology allows for effortless manipulation of photos with just a simple tap on a phone, the concept of a visual image being a definite truth is no longer relevant. The traditional belief in the accuracy of a photograph is as obsolete as the daguerreotype. In fact, a photo can often spark more inquiries than it provides answers.

In recent days, there has been controversy surrounding a photo of Kate, Princess of Wales, and her three children. Various news agencies, such as The Associated Press, initially shared an image released by Kensington Palace. However, it was later retracted due to concerns that it had been altered. This prompted Kate to clarify on social media that she occasionally dabbles in photo editing.

This is a common occurrence for her.

In the past, editing photos and videos required a lot of time and specialized knowledge with physical film and darkrooms. However, with the digital age, it has become accessible to almost anyone. There are numerous apps available that allow people to easily manipulate and enhance their photos and videos, which can then be shared on various online platforms and social media.

A promotional statement from the Facetune app encourages users to cover imperfections and embrace their authentic selves. The website for the Fotor app boasts the ability to quickly remove and alter backgrounds, thanks to their advanced AI object remover feature that aids in eliminating unwanted elements.

This Wild West of image-altering abilities is opening new frontiers for everyday people — and creating headaches for those who expect photos to be a documentary representation of reality.

Journalists who work with photographs and reputable news companies adhere to guidelines and ethical principles concerning image standards. These organizations highly value authentic photos and will not publish or use any that have been edited or modified. However, identifying manipulated images can be challenging due to the ubiquity of user-friendly apps on smartphones and computers that allow people to manipulate photos bit by bit, changing the original captured image.

Reword: The widespread availability of manipulation tools has resulted in various noteworthy and popular instances, such as in March 2023, when a digitally altered image of Pope Francis wearing a bulky white coat fooled many into thinking it was authentic.

According to Ken Light, a professor of photojournalism at the University of California Berkeley, living in a world where seeing something does not guarantee its truth comes with risks and dangers.

“The role of photography has been to witness and to record for the moment, but also for history. And I don’t think any of us know where it’s going,” he said. The rise of visual manipulation that casts doubt on whether something is real or not “frays the fabric of the culture tremendously in the moment but also for the future.”

Fred Ritchin, former editor at The New York Times Magazine and dean emeritus at the International Center of Photography, concurred. According to him, the concept of “the camera never lies” is outdated and belongs to the 20th century, not the 21st. He believes that society still clings to these notions, avoiding the uncomfortable truths they may reveal.

For a long time, it has been understood that certain images, such as those of magazine cover models, are altered. Some individuals have expressed worries about the potential effects of manipulated and artificial beauty standards on females.

Lexie Kite, along with her sister Lindsay, have conducted research on body image and media. In their book “More Than A Body: Your Body Is an Instrument, Not an Ornament,” they discuss the prevalence of digital editing on social media by numerous individuals. However, many people have yet to fully acknowledge the extent of this issue.

She emphasized the significance of acknowledging that digital manipulation is the truth we live in.

According to Hany Farid, a professor at UC Berkeley who studies digital forensics and image analysis, individuals have the ability to counteract the gradual consequences of photo manipulation.

He advised viewers to exercise caution, thoughtfulness, and mindfulness in interpreting what they see in images, rather than blindly assuming their validity.

He stated that there are ongoing developments in tracking visual images and detecting any alterations made after the photos were taken.

However, even if those actions help reduce some of the problems, they will not completely eliminate the issue or restore our unwavering trust in images like previous generations had in photographs that are now considered unforgettable.

“Throughout our history, nearly every significant event – whether it be war, conflict, or disaster – has been accompanied by an iconic photograph,” he explained. “These photos are incredibly impactful, as they encompass a multitude of information, feelings, and history in just one image. However, in today’s rapidly changing world, it may be difficult to capture such powerful moments like before.”

Alternatively, if the saying was altered: “Pictures, and possibly it still didn’t fully occur.”

The Princess of Wales and her children’s image was released by Kensington Palace, not Buckingham Palace.

Source: wral.com