Defining basics

[wavemachine]

I think it is difficult this one, generally I will process the absolute minimum but that can mean levels, cropping, convert to mono or even use the clone tool to remove a dirty mark or a distraction.

I will put the cat amongst the pigeons here and maybe we could impose the restriction of it being a single image i.e no composites just a suggestion.

[SieSmith]

I agree completely with Paul, Howard and Matthew. Pretty much impossible to define what basic is, taking into account what you can do "in-camera" these days with some models.
Also how basic is filter use and lighting effects? Does basic mean you can only use a pinhole camera and get them developed at Jessops?

I know what you're driving at, Mark. You want people to take more of a considered approach to their photography and less of a "make it up in photoshop" approach. But, to be honest (as one who never took up photography in the good old days of film), half the fun is in finding out and experimenting with what you can do with an image once taken. Developing has always been an integral part of the process, only now we can all have a go, even those of us with little experience.

I say leave as is, if you win you have the choice of any conditions you set for the following comp, but be prepared to answer all the tricky questions that get fired back to you!

Cheers, Sie

[Cutter]

I quite agree with the main concensus, dont try to mend something thats not broken, Ha Ha that give me an idea!!!!! for the weekend comp

[kerbside]

Just had a read through the last few posts. The problem with saying "minimal" usage of photoshop who can actually say what has or has not been done to a photograph?
The old saying was that "a photo necer lied" but in this day and age i think most photos lie as they have had something done to the over and above what the camera actually took.
I can see where Mark is coming from but think it is going to be hard to police, maybe just left up to the individual as to wether or not to spend the hours altering in photoshop or the hours trying to take the perfect picture.
Just my opinion.
Jeff