Photography & AI...
Recently it’s been pretty hard to not hear about AI in the same sentence as photography. We’ve had well know photography hubs share AI under the guise of photography and even an AI photo win a prestigious photography award to then get exposed. Whatever side of the fence you fall in terms of how you feel about AI within the creative space, one thing for sure is that it’s really dividing opinion and it’s here to stay.
In this blog I would like to share my thoughts on AI specifically in relation to photography and where I see everything going. Two quick disclaimers. First of all my bias is not in favour of AI. Not because I think it will end anything, but because I prefer walking in a real location, with a real camera in my hand, having a real beer, talking to real people and taking photos that showcase real life. The less time I spend in front of a screen the better. When it comes to photography, I can only speak from my perspective which is that of a travel photographer with an online audience whose main income does not rely on selling photos. I am sure if you’re in a different boat, you will have a different view.
AI is a tool
First and foremost AI is just a tool. A very smart tool, but nonetheless a tool that requires human input. At least for now. Just like any tool it can be used for both good and bad. It can be used to create something unique or to deceive others. A good example of another well known tool is photoshop. You can use it to enhance an image or to change skies, add birds or other elements that many photographers have been doing. Some of these photographers have been transparent whilst others have not. Of course AI is a whole different ballgame but the principle I feel is the same.
AI still needs images to learn from
AI still needs reference material that comes in form of currently available photography and art. Of course this is where the whole copyright and plagiarism debate is getting quite heated with various lawsuits, threats and general turmoil. This isn’t something I am keeping up to speed with but no doubt it could impact how all this progresses. If all photography and art stopped today, the AI model as it stands will not have any new material to sample. That photo of The Pope in a white coat was only possible because he is The Pope with millions of photos online. If it was average joe who didn’t have a popular social media profile and whose photos didn’t exist online, I don’t think this would work. Unless AI can access CCTV cameras and various database…. Then we really are fucked.
AI is not a replacement for photography
Even when AI becomes identical to photography, it will not replace the process of photography. It will not replace waking up on a warm sunny day and going for a 10 mile walk round your city or in nature. It will not replace using your camera. It will not replace fresh air and exercise. It will not replace the mental health benefits of being outside. It will never replace the process of photographing your real life.
Value of real work will increase
One side effect of AI images is that the value of real photography will increase. Both in terms of perceived value by an audience as well as commercial value to a client. I believe that images generated by AI will be the quick and cheap solutions whilst images generated by a person would be the premium choice. A bit like if you want a quick and cheap furniture solution, you go to Ikea. However if you want a solid hand made table that will last for decades, you to to a carpenter and pay a premium.
More emphasis on the artist
I see this is already happening now however as AI generated images flood the market even more, I believe there will be a greater spotlight on the artist. First and foremost it would be to build trust. As you see how the artist works, maybe some behind the scenes footage and even the raw photos, you will start trusting that artist. Compared to a faceless account full of nice images where you will always question whether the photography is real or not.