Photo illustration

Photo illustration is a technique that begins with a digitized photograph. Using special image enhancement software, the photo is altered in a way that adds elements or modifies or distorts the image for the purpose of telling a story. Photo illustration is used in advertising and any place traditional illustration may be used.

Photo illustration is similar to traditional illustration done with paint, the computer, or some other artist tools, in that it often stresses subject more than form. That is, it usually tells a story or is designed to be a visual accompaniment to a story.

Photo illustration is usually done in a graphics editing program like Adobe Photoshop and begins with a digital photograph. Elements from other photographs may be added along with 3d objects or other graphic elements to enhance and change the image significantly.

Photo illustration is similar to photo manipulation or image editing, in that the technique, tools and process are similar, however, the purpose in not only to alter the aesthetic appearance but to also create a message.

Photo illustration is often meant to be obvious in the sense that the viewer should understand that they are looking at a manipulated image. Unlike photo editing techniques that are meant to change a person's physical appearance to make them appear more attractive, younger, older, etc.,the purpose is not to trick or deceive the viewer into thinking the image is a representation of reality. A photo illustration may present an image that is physically impossible. For example, an image meant to accompany a story about lying, may depict a person with an impossibly large or long nose, in the style of Pinocchio.