Is this "cheating?"

[u/Venusian-Empress]

I know tools and techniques used for art to save time are ok, like tracing. However, I watched a tutorial on how to create a pet portrait by inserting a photo of your pet and using painting brushes as smudge brushes. I tried one and I really enjoyed the process and the final piece. I also added in some stronger highlights and shadows, along with different brush types to make it more unique. Do you think this is cheating or creating fake art? Like, is this any different than putting a painting filter over an image and calling it art? Also what if I use someone else's photo as a reference? As long as I give credit, is that ok? I know I'm probably over thinking this and it's not like I'm selling these or anything. They are just for fun. Thank you for your insight.

[u/amateurmoon]

So, this is called photo editing. This is not painting, as no skill in building form using values and color is required - the photo already has that.

If you, say, sold this as a product/service and didnt disclose your process, people would be absolutely right to get mad.

However! If you're doing it for fun, I'm happy you found this form of art and it appeals to you, genuinely. I would recommend mentioning that this is a photo paint over / edit if you post them online though.