Eye reflections-when to repair

[Bryan Hix]

I have a question about what to do when a flash is not used and a bird or animal has a pretty strong reflection that bisects the eye. Should it be left alone or should it be "repaired" by removing the reflection and maybe adding a catchlight through PS? I have posted a few photos with strong relfection and I have had both sides of the arguement suggested. It seems some people feel it's not right to mess with it and others say to do so because the natural reflection can sometimes distract. Curious as to what others think about this topic. Thanks.

-Bryan

[Fabs Forns]

Bryan, it depends on the use of the image. If you are entering a contest, you had better not mess with it.
For your personal use, it is entirely up to your very personal ethics how far you go. Posting here, we respectfully ask that you disclose any unusual manipulation other than the usual curves, levels, etc, mostly as an educational experience for others looking at your image.
You will never get a general consensus, so may as well do what you want to do.

[Bryan Hix]

Thanks Fabs, I didn't realize that about contests, so thanks for the tip.