Ethical Implications of Photo Alteration

In 1982, National Geographic altered a cover photo of the Pyramids of Giza, sparking controversy and raising ethical questions about photojournalism. The magazine initially defended the alteration as an aesthetic choice, but later acknowledged the mistake, emphasizing the importance of photo integrity. This incident highlighted the challenges of maintaining credibility in the digital age.

What was the main reason National Geographic altered the photo of the Pyramids of Giza?

• To fit the vertical format of the cover

• To make the pyramids appear larger

• To remove unwanted elements from the background

• To enhance the colors of the pyramids

Who took the original photo of the Pyramids of Giza that was altered by National Geographic?

• Gordon Gahan

• Dorothea Lange

• Annie Leibovitz

• Steve McCurry

What was one of the consequences for National Geographic after altering the pyramids photo?

• Increased magazine sales

• Loss of credibility

• Winning a photography award

• Gaining more subscribers

What ethical issue did the altered pyramids photo raise?

• The importance of photo captions

• The trustworthiness of images in media

• The use of color filters in photography

• The cost of digital photo processing

How did National Geographic initially justify the alteration of the photo?

• As a technical error

• As an artistic choice

• As a historical reenactment

• As a necessary correction

What lesson did National Geographic claim to have learned from the 1982 cover photo incident?

• Focus on landscape photography

• Always use the latest technology

• Never alter a photo

• Consult with photographers before publishing