Photo Ethics

Sometimes we create things that did not happen to illustrate a story. These are called photo illustrations. Recently the Sacramento Bee published a photo that had been altered in Photoshop but did not state that the photo was altered.  In their correction editors stated: "The Bee's ethics policy strictly forbids such manipulation of documentary photographs. It is considered a violation of our core values, as it misrepresents the accuracy of the event. When we alter a photograph for illustrative purposes, we disclose that at the time of publication." Good to know some publications still maintain ethical standards.