When does photography become digital art?

In the ever-evolving realm of visual expression, the line between traditional photography and digital art has become increasingly blurred. 

As technology advances, photographers are equipped with powerful tools that allow them to transcend the boundaries of mere documentation, ushering in a new era where capturing the moment meets boundless imagination. 

The evolution of technology has not only expanded the horizons of photographic expression but has also sparked a redefinition of what constitutes art in the digital age (i.e AI art). 

This creative landscape is all about pushing the limits of visual storytelling – so, when does photography become digital art?

Table of content:

The Advent of Digital Photography

Is digital photography digital art?

Photography vs. Digital Art

When does photography become digital art?

How to turn photos into digital art?

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The Advent of Digital Photography

December 1975 marked a pivotal moment in the history of photography – an engineer with Eastman Kodak, Steven Sasson, produced the very first true digital camera using CCD chips. The breakthrough provided photographers with unprecedented control over their craft.

With the emergence of digital cameras, photographers gained the ability to instantly review and edit images and experiment with their vision in ways previously unimaginable. All while eliminating significant film processing costs, therefore making photography more accessible to enthusiasts and professionals alike.

The advent of digital photography marked a revolutionary shift in the world of imaging, transforming the way we capture, share, and experience visual moments. The flexibility and immediacy offered by digital technology opened up a realm of creative possibilities and reshaped the art and craft of photography.

Digital Photography Art by Pelle Waldron

Is digital photography digital art?

Digital photography refers to the process of capturing images using digital cameras or other devices that record light electronically, and digital arts is defined as works of art created using digital tools. In that sense, digital photography is a form of digital art as it involves the use of digital technology to create images.

However, it's important to note that not all digital photography is necessarily considered digital art. Many photographers aim to capture and represent reality faithfully without extensive manipulation. If the images produced are realistic representations of the scenes or subjects photographed, they may not be considered digital art.

Digital Photography Art by GiselXFlorez

Photography vs. Digital Art

Using software like Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom to enhance and manipulate images by adjusting light and color or removing spots etc. are often considered basic photo-editing, and may not involve significant enough creative alterations to make them digital art.

The distinction lies in the intent and approach of the photographer. If the primary goal is to create art through creative manipulation, the work may be more squarely within the realm of digital art. On the other hand, if the emphasis is on capturing and presenting scenes as they are, it may be seen as more traditional digital photography.

Ultimately, the distinction between photography and digital art hinges on the artist's intent and creative vision. Some photographers choose to preserve the authenticity of a moment, relying on minimal post-processing. In contrast, others embrace the boundless possibilities of digital tools, using them to go beyond reality and craft visual stories that resonate on a different level.

Digital Photography Art by Alessia Moccia

When does photography become digital art?

Even though a clear-cut distinction is impossible, if the image is no longer a simple capturing of the moment but creating a new one with an artistic vision instead, photography becomes digital art.

A key distinction between traditional photography and digital art lies in the artist's intent. In traditional photography, the aim is often to capture and represent reality as faithfully as possible. Digital art, on the other hand, provides a canvas for artists to go beyond reality and create a new world or manipulate existing ones.

In terms of art, keep in mind that the story is more important than the picture – when you take a photography and change the content in line with your artistic intention and creative vision, that photo turns into digital art.

Digital Photography & Collage Art by YuYu

How do I turn my photos into digital art?

Post-processing plays a pivotal role in shaping the transition from photography to digital art. We said that enhancing colors, adjusting contrast, and correcting exposure are common practices in photography – you need to take it a step further to create digital art.

1. Creative Manipulation: Use your digital editing software to modify and enhance elements of the image in ways that go beyond standard adjustments and involve artistic interpretation.

2. Composite Imagery: Digital artists often create composite images by combining multiple photographs or elements into a single composition. Experiment with blending, layering, or incorporating elements from different sources to create a unique, imaginative piece.

3. Expressive Style: Develop a distinct and intentional style that goes beyond traditional photographic techniques – use digital tools to convey emotions, concepts, or stories in a more abstract or stylized manner.

4. Original Creation: Just make sure that the final result is not just a faithful representation of a scene but an original creation that may diverge significantly from the initial photograph. This could involve adding digital elements, textures, or effects to create a new, imaginative piece of art.

5. Artistic Intent: Ultimately, the transition from photography to digital art depends on your intent. Aspire to create something that transcends mere documentation and becomes a work of personal expression or storytelling through digital manipulation.

It's worth noting that the line between digital photography and digital art is not rigid, and there is a spectrum of creative expression within the digital realm. Some photographers may incorporate digital art elements into their work without fully transitioning into the realm of digital art, while others may fully embrace digital tools to create transformative and imaginative pieces.

Read 10 Digital Artists: The Art of Digital Photography next for inspiration!

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