Photorealism or not

To paint, or not to paint, is that the question?!!! This sort of follows on from the discussion on whether or not to use photographs in artwork... What are people's thoughts on photorealism? I have noticed in discussions when I have visited various art galleries that often, people are intimidated by the technical ability of photorealistic artists. Personally, I prefer the work of Howard Terpning to somthing like Drew Blair's work (http://www.drublair.com/comersus/store/tica.asp), which though beautiful, is 90% airbrushed. So then, we can say, is DB's work the work of an artist? I think it is, but art is subjective, and I would hang Terpning on my wall, and simply photograph the girl. I like some photorealistic work, like the amazing black and white acrylic paintings that were at the BP National Portrait comp this year. (Did not like the winning painting though - which will be another thread in a mo) Maybe something for discussion? curious bunny! :-)