Reading 2 – Lev Manovich

“A new media object is subject to algorithmic manipulation. In other words, media becomes programmable.” (Manovich, pg27) Manovich introduces the concept that any form of new media can be manipulated using algorithms. This idea stems from the principle of numerical representation, which means that all elements of new media are constructed using digital codes, or numbers. As a result, these elements can be modified with mathematical algorithms. This marks a significant shift from traditional analog media, where images, sounds, and texts were fixed and less susceptible to change, to modern digital media which can be easily altered, transformed, and customized. For example, a digital photo is made up of tiny dots called pixels, and each pixel has a number that shows its color and brightness. This allows programs like Photoshop to add filters, change colors, or completely modify the image through algorithms. This is different from traditional film photography, which requires chemical processes and physical changes to edit a photo. Manovich’s principle of numerical representation highlights the inherent flexibility and transformable nature of digital media, setting it apart from older, more static forms of media. This principle not only underscores the fluidity of digital media but also paves the way for automated processes. In these automated systems, software can execute complex media manipulations autonomously, without direct human input. This shift not only revolutionizes how media is created and modified but also expands the creative possibilities available in digital forms, making media manipulation more accessible and versatile. This foundational change is pivotal in understanding the evolution from analog to digital media landscapes.