Photography itself is not really real
“Photography itself is not really real… I like to use Photoshop. I use all the tools available.”
Renowned photographer Annie Leibovitz recently shared her thoughts on the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the field of photography. The rapid advancement of AI has sparked widespread debate and concern, especially in the creative industries. Leibovitz offers a refreshingly optimistic perspective on the matter.
Contrary to the apprehensions held by many of her peers, Leibovitz expresses no fear of the burgeoning technology. Instead, she emphasizes the importance of taking the plunge and learning how to use it. Her approach highlights a belief in adaptation and evolution as natural companions to innovation.
Leibovitz's commentary on AI-generated images is particularly thought-provoking. She challenges the notion of authenticity in the digital age, suggesting that such images hold as much merit as traditional photographs. She believes that the subjective nature of reality, as captured through the lens, implies a degree of "editing and control," and that manipulation and artistic intervention are inherent in the process of creating visual art, regardless of the medium.
The ongoing debate surrounding AI and photography has been intense, with major AI image generators facing criticism for utilizing copyrighted photographs as training data without proper authorization or compensation. Moreover, the encroachment of AI on traditional photography, evident in its application for product shots by giants like Google and Amazon, and its promotion as a cost-effective alternative to professional photographers, adds another layer of complexity to the discourse.
However, Leibovitz's perspective offers a valuable lesson in navigating the changing landscape of photography and art at large. She invites us to consider AI as another tool in the artist's toolkit, capable of enhancing creative expression rather than diminishing it. Her stance encourages a broader reflection on the essence of art and the endless possibilities that technological advancements can bring to creative endeavors.
n.b. All images in the slideshow of this blog post were carefully created leveraging Midjourney. These are not real people. These are not photographs.
