real_photoshop's photostream

Real Photoshop is a reference to the way I see modern photography. It is impossible for me to look at a photo without questioning whether or not it has been "altered" in some program like Photoshop.

I have a friend who sends me all the emails of the "Darwin Award" photos or animals doing silly, anthropomorphic acts. I just assume they are all altered, and only appreciate them for the person's photoshop skills -- if I can't tell how they did it.

We have all seen the photo of the the shark attacking the helicopter, the guy on the World Trade Center with the 9/11 timestamp, and even photojournalists in Lebanon doctoring photos of the recent conflict.

This is not to say that I think Photoshop is bad. In fact, Photoshop is one of the things I love most about modern photography.

Personally, I think Photoshop has raised photography to another level. I'm still an amateur photographer and an amateur photoshopper, but when I combine those skills I can produce some decent pictures.

I just started getting more serious with photography since purchasing a Nikon D50...thats where the addiction started (thanks Diyosa). Within no time I found myself buying a speedlight and 50mm 1.8 and am currently saving up for a lens that costs more than the camera! Maybe I'll sell my car for a D200...its a sickness.

Fortunately, my recent addiction is basically free. I have discovered HDR photography using software called Photomatix. I love its tonemapping feature and the photos it produces.

If you've viewed my photos you also know that I have many shots of my animals, especially my exotic cat, Loki. Loki makes my amateur photos more interesting because he is so different. I hope my photos can help promote the Savannah Cat breed because they are awesome cats.

Thanks to all who view my stream...your photos are what inspire me the most. Please feel free to comment and give suggestions; they are appreciated.