It’s just Photoshopped

Are paintings and other artworks created in Photoshop (or other digital image programs) really art?

Or are they just “photoshopped”.

An artist in one of my painting groups – a VERY talented photographer and digital painter – was asked about her process. When she explained how she created her art, the response was “so you mean its just photoshopped”.

When I read that comment, I could feel my blood pressure rising, as I’m sure hers did too. Its an attitude digital artists face all the time – that somehow what they create is not “real art”. Even as a photographer I’ve had people tell me that using Photoshop to enhance or edit photos is “cheating”.

In this age of digital technology its surprising that this attitude persists.

So I’d like to set the record straight.

As far as photography is concerned, one of the differences between an amateur and a professional is the use of digital editing tools. Back in the days of film, Ansel Adams, one of the greatest landscape photographers EVER, did post-processing of his images in the dark room. He was a master in the darkroom. In the digital world, Photoshop (and other editing software) has replaced the dark room. Sure, we have a much broader selection of tools to use now, but the theory is the same. A professional photographer would never allow a photo straight out of the camera to leave their studio.

Which brings me to digital painting.

Paintings created in Adobe Photoshop are indeed real paintings that involve a significant amount of skill.

And here’s why:

Skill in the Digital Medium

Creating a digital painting requires skill in navigating and utilizing digital tools. Artists use graphic tablets and stylus pens to apply strokes with precision, mimicking the control and dexterity required in traditional painting.

Varied Brush Techniques

Photoshop provides a vast array of digital brushes that replicate traditional painting tools. Artists can simulate techniques such as impasto, cross-hatching, and blending, showcasing their mastery of various styles and textures. Artists can also create their own digital brushes which adds a further layer of complexity to the painting process.

Colour Mastery

Digital artists need to understand colour theory and how to manipulate hues, tones, and saturations digitally. Achieving the right colour balance and harmony requires skill and a discerning eye.

Composition Skills

Like traditional painters, digital artists need to understand composition, focal points, and the balance of elements within the frame to create visually appealing and harmonious works.

Complex Layering

Photoshop's layering system allows artists to build up their paintings in a way that is similar to traditional layering in physical paintings. Artists must understand how to organize and manipulate layers to achieve the desired effect, requiring strategic planning and skill.

Fine Detailing

Achieving intricate details in a digital painting demands a high level of precision and attention to detail. Artists often zoom in to work on minute elements, showcasing their ability to create nuanced and intricate artwork.

Adaptation to Change

Digital artists regularly adapt to new tools and updates, showcasing flexibility and a willingness to experiment. This adaptability is a testament to their commitment to mastering the digital medium.

Experimentation with Effects

Photoshop offers a range of special effects and filters. Skilled artists know how to use these tools judiciously, enhancing their work without relying solely on automated features.

Time-Intensive Process

Creating a detailed and expressive digital painting takes time and patience. Artists invest hours into refining their work, making decisions about each stroke, colour choice and detail, just as traditional painters do.

Paintings created in Photoshop are real works of art that require skill, creativity, and a deep understanding of artistic principles. The transition to a digital medium does not diminish the value or authenticity of the artistic process; instead, it opens up new possibilities for expression and allows artists to showcase their proficiency in both traditional and digital realms.

So to the question “are they real paintings”?

I guess that’s something the viewer will need to decide for themselves. However, ignorance of the process and skill needed to accomplish the end result is not a good enough reason for anyone to dismiss a digital work with the comment “its just photoshopped”. Photoshop is merely another medium for artists to explore – just like oils, acrylics, watercolour or graphite.