Photojournalism Ethics;; An attempt at coherency. [[also a short comment on the Dove video]]

An individuals reality is the responsibility of that individual; a photograph can no sooner convey a truth than an individual can define a truth. Everything is relative. In that mindset, maybe situational ethics are the only kind of ethics a photographer can follow. Ethics are relative to every photographer--therefore a single ethical code could be interpreted and applied differently by every photographer.


The alterations made to the female shot for the billboard included the lengthening of her neck, the growth of her eyes, a complete revamping of her skin tone and complexion, adjustments in levels and contrast as well as a general redesign to the tone of the shot. Because Dove is attempting to convey a less unattainable, unrealistic example of beauty to the public, their choice to do this may be slightly less appropriate than another beauty product company to market in the same manor. Fashion photography differs from photojournalism not only in the content of the matter photographed but also in the message that is conveyed to each respective audience. Ethics are relative to each. Reality is relative to everyone; it is what it is regardless.