Can Digital Retouching Go Too Far?

As I'm sure you have already heard, photographer Jill Greenberg has stirred up quite the controversy in the photography world. She captured some very unflattering images of Presidential nominee John McCain, digitally retouched them to make them even more harsh and posted them on her website. (To read more about this check out PDNpulse.) Although digital retouching is predominant in the photo world, many photographers have gotten into trouble for retouching sports shots or news images.

So my question to you, do you think digital retouching should be okay in photojournalism? Chime in and share your ideas with us—let us know what you think!

Inspiration from Around the World

Have you hit a roadblock with your creativity? If you need a little push in the right direction, check out TIME's Pictures of the Week. TIME compiles a slide show of images from this past week ranging from the Defense Secretary, Robert Gates, greeting a reporter in Baghdad to the aftermath of Hurricane Ike on parts of Texas.

Check out the different styles these photographers use—they are very inspirational! 

Great Place for a Photographer

Thinking about moving to the New York City area to pursue your dreams in photography?

Photographer Mark Rubenstein, a PDN employee for several years, is moving away from the city to pursue an opportunity in California! His apartment in South Park Slope, Brooklyn is going to be available starting October 1st. It's a great one bedroom—perfect for any photographer just starting out. Check out the listing and if you have any questions feel free to post, we will be checking regularly!

Right Brain vs. Left Brain

When you create art, you use your right brain to visualize the final image in your mind and your left brain helps you to analyze the final results. Which side of your brain is dominant? Take the test here to find out. I think that U.S. grade schools tend to reward stuents who excel at math and science, and those of us who prefer art, music and dance are a tad overlooked. Now that you're in art school, embrace your unique talents!!

Creature Comforts

If you've just moved into a dorm room this month, check out www.dormbuys.com and browse over some cool stuff designed especially for your new space.
I like the 'Stuff Bucket Bathroom Tote' and the 'Dry Erase Removable Wallpaper' (stick it anywhere!) If your school allows small appliances, you may consider the $13.49 'Cafe Uno' coffee maker for those inevitable all-nighters you're about to pull. Dormbuys.com will ship directly to your college.

Contests! Contests! Contests!

Hurry up and submit those photos—the deadlines are fast approaching!

Billboard and Photo District News Present: Summer Music Moment
Late Deadline: September 10, 2008
Enter online: www.billboardphotocontest.com

World in Focus
Special Extension Deadline: September 15, 2008
Enter online: www.worldinfocuscontest.com

Photo District News Presents: Faces, Portraits From all Angles
Late Deadline: September 15, 2008
Enter Online: www.facesphotocontest.com

Good luck!

Student Journalists Arrested at Republican National Convention

Two student journalists from the University of Kentucky were arrested at the Republican National Convention (RNC) last week. Edward Matthews and Britney McIntosh, both journalists and photographers for the Kentucky Kernel, traveled to the RNC to cover the political event as a learning experience and not for assignment. Matthews and McIntosh were photographing a group of angry and destructive protesters. Eventually a riot broke out, and Matthews and McIntosh were arrested along with their photo advisor from the Kentucky Kernel, Jim Winn.

The three University of Kentucky journalists were arrested with a large group of the protesters. According to reports, all three journalists were clearly taking photographs and wearing press passes. Matthews, McIntosh and Winn were later released after spending more then a day in jail. The charges against them were dropped pending further investigation.