This type of subject has been debated quite a bit. Manipulation as you call it or enhancement or whatever is part of digital photography. Digital in many ways is a new art form. I routinely make adjustments to images that I think can be improved. I wish that I was better at it because it's part of the fun. In my opinion, out of the camera shots are not superior to enhanced shots. There really isn't any point to being a purist and not using digital enhancements when needed. If enhancing helps, do it. Unless some unusual or interesting technique is used then I don't think that enhancements need to be mentioned routinely. Film pros did the same thing in their darkrooms, cropping, pushing development etc.
Just my perspective on the subject.
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