I think that Photography can be placed in many different categories. Some people are talented and do not need the use of Photoshop. There are others that need the help and some just do it for fun. Whether you create the image or it is all natural, I think it is still considered photography. I like the point that David made in the article, "From the very beginning, photographers have set up their shots, posed people and adjusted brightness and contrast in the development process". Whether it is Photoshop or adding images it is still a photograph, to me. Although it is not what the camera captured initially, it still shows how you portray it to be, you add style and uniqueness to make it your own.
As far a contest goes, I think the photographs that were altered in any way should be separated from the one ones that "got it" on the initial shot. People take pictures for different reasons, so that is something I kept in mind. I personally, take pictures as a hobby. People who take pictures for competition and as a profession would probably disagree that it is ok to alter your pictures. Some people are talented enough to thoroughly examine all possibilities to get the right picture. Photoshop is just another way of adding your special touch to the picture. I personally love using Photoshop and has made me feel more comfortable with using the camera, knowing I can fix what I don't like. I will continue to use this program even after the class is over.
You had mentioned that if a photo is altered in any way it should be in a separate category. This might not as cut and dry as you think. Photos have been being altered for years before Photoshop. If a photo is slightly "altered", for example removing a zit, I don't think it should not be compared to the photo with the motorcycle and tornado.
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