"Just how intelligent is artificial photography?" Although it may sound like a play on words, this question is essential in determining the future direction of photography and art. The introduction of AI is rapidly transforming the world we know.
In this article, I would like to focus on how artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming our creative world, with particular emphasis on commercial photography, fine art photography, and art per se.
Artificial intelligence is already changing the world of photography and art. The extent of this impact is yet to be determined, but we, as artists and photographers, should try to understand how we will be affected.
When it comes to commercial photography, AI has already proven its ability to create award-winning photographs under the guidance of a human. However, it has also been criticised for infringing on copyright laws by using elements of pictures taken by photographers to create AI-generated images while copying popular styles and genres.
As AI-generated art becomes increasingly prevalent, we as artists and photographers must consider ways to protect our work from being used without our permission. The rise of new methods to safeguard images against AI use is inevitable, but only time will reveal how this will unfold. One currently available solution is Glaze, a software that alters the image in an undetectable manner to humans but not to AI bots. In the future, we will witness more sophisticated copyright or watermark triggers embedded that an AI generator will not be able to detect or will avoid. As time passes, the mechanisms available to make it harder for AI systems to replicate or use components of our work without consent will become more apparent. Such measures will reduce AI-generated copyright infringement and protect the rights of creators.
In commercial photography, the acceptance and popularity of AI will largely depend on the client's desires and how much they are willing to pay for a unique photograph. For example, a travel agent looking to feature a specific location may prefer to generate a picture using AI rather than purchasing stock footage, commissioning a photographer, or travelling to the venue themselves to photograph it. On the other hand, an upmarket restaurant offering a dining experience may prefer to showcase its specific dishes through original photography rather than turning to generic AI-generated images.
Regarding competition photography, the disclosure of RAW files will provide authenticity. Here, within the framework of the competition rules, the judges and organisers will be policing a minority of entries as most photographers find fulfilment in the challenge of photographing themselves and the pleasure of creating their work. I also predict that, just as with digital editing today, a new category will be explicitly included for AI-assisted entries.
In the art world, AI is already inspiring artists by generating fresh ideas and concepts, serving as a new tool for inspiration. Artists have always borrowed ideas from various sources, and AI provides a new source of inspiration. However, it is crucial to balance using AI as a tool for inspiration and maintaining authenticity and originality.
If I look back on Photoshop, when art filters were first introduced, many artists feared their work would become obsolete. However, as time has passed, we have seen that these filters, based on computer-generated algorithms, are predictable and often create a plastic, artificial effect. We have seen how they have been used to make "cheap" commercial art. As such, the usage of these art filters can be recognised by a trained eye a mile away. Perhaps AI-generated art will be less predictable, evolving into a new art form with unique qualities. Only time will tell.
AI will never replace high-end bespoke art. The intricate details and textures, the beauty of paint, and the originality of mixed media elements such as encaustic, charcoal, and resins, to name a few, all beautifully showcase the artists' talent. There will always be a love for the real thing, and AI-generated art will not be able to replicate the emotional connection and physical presence of an authentic piece of art. Therefore, we as artists can take comfort in the fact that our unique, handmade pieces will always be highly valued and cherished by art lovers and collectors.
In addition to the originality of physical art, it's worth noting that people still buy from people. Art lovers follow artists in flesh and blood, often immersing themselves in the artist's narrative. Collectors and art enthusiasts want to participate in this journey and invest in the artist's story. This human connection and emotional adoration for the artist and their work cannot be replicated by AI-generated art. The process of creating art, the artist's experiences, emotions, and the story behind the artwork all contribute to the artwork's value. Therefore, this personal appreciation for art impacts all three genres in the discussion today.
After all that has been said, I also caution against becoming complacent about the potential of art generated by AI. We should not look at the rise of AI-generated art as a movement to replace human art but rather as the birth of a new art form. Just as Photoshop and digital photography, after being frowned upon at first, set alight a whole new art genre that we have come to love and enjoy, AI has the potential to do the same. A great example of the possibility of AI-generated art is "Edmond de Belamy," a piece that recently fetched $432,000 at a Christie's auction house in NY. This sale demonstrates that AI-generated art will forge its way to become a new legitimate art form with value in the art world. Copyright around AI-generated art is still sketchy, but this will be tested in court, and the laws will no doubt adapt accordingly. Therefore, it is essential to remain open-minded and embrace the potential of AI-generated art as a contemporary art genre that can coexist with human art.
The impact of AI on photography and art is yet to be fully realised; I agree that there will be enormous challenges, but opportunities will arise out of it. As AI continues to evolve and expand, it is essential to keep an open mind and adapt to the changing landscape of art and photography. It is up to artists and photographers to navigate this new landscape and find ways to use AI as a resource while maintaining the authenticity and originality of their work. It is yet another tool on the workbench of art.
In conclusion, we, as photographers and artists, need to be aware of the potential impact of AI on our work. Ignoring the trend will likely mean an exit from one's practice, especially in commercial photography.
As a competition photographer, it is crucial to ensure that you can prove authenticity in your work. I would avoid any photography competition that does not have stringent guidelines in place or does not verify authenticity using a RAW file investigation.
As a commercial photographer, it is essential to offer a bespoke service that cannot be replicated by AI, thereby adding value to your work. If you need to prove authenticity, ensure you keep all your RAW files safely saved on the cloud and backed up on a hard drive. Also, be aware that if you convert your RAW files to DNG as part of your workflow, do not delete the original RAW file, as a DNG format cannot be used to prove authenticity, as they have been created out of the original data. Please forgive me for playing the devil's advocate; I sometimes wonder who has access to cloud storage, given that Google shut down certain AI developments citing a data breach; this is a discussion all on its own.
As a fine-art photographer, you must create pieces that bear your unique signature, showcasing your originality. Finally, as an artist, especially where photography is involved, I suggest you document the entire process to keep it as proof of originality; again, RAW files are essential.
Work towards developing a unique signature that reflects your individuality. Then making sure you invite the collector into your journey is necessary to create a loyal audience. By being aware of the dangers and potential of AI-generated art and maintaining a clear focus on developing an individual style through experimentation, photographers and artists can continue to thrive in the evolving landscape of the art world.
