The second sentence of the disclaimer in question: "The photograph may not be manipulated in any way and may not be used in commercial or political materials,

The second sentence of the disclaimer in question: "The photograph may not be manipulated in any way and may not be used in commercial or political materials, advertisements, emails, products, promotions that in any way suggests approval or endorsement of the President, the First Family, or the White House." is clearly about "approval or endorsement". It's not saying the photos can't be manipulated, it's saying the photos shouldn't be used to imply "approval or endorsement". Various information supporting the White House's position, including references to case law, can be found here: http://fairuse.stanford.edu/Copyright_and_Fair_Use_Overview/chapter12/12-b.html http://fairuse.stanford.edu/Copyright_and_Fair_Use_Overview/...