On the 24th of September, a lazy Sunday, I found myself browsing YouTube videos. To me, they are far more entertaining than traditional television. During my digital wanderings, I stumbled upon an intriguing video introducing Adobe Firefly—an AI-based program about which I knew very little.
As I delved into the video's structure and content, the presenter discussed text-image functionality that generates images from inputted words. Some argue that this technology lacks creativity or doesn't contribute to learning in photography. Personally, I believe AI can be dangerous if misused—a topic worthy of its own blog post—but when it comes to education and photography, perhaps we should examine potential benefits for younger audiences.
Consider how AI-generated images could introduce children to sights they might never experience otherwise—much like visiting a zoo allows them to see exotic animals up close. While opinions on zoos may vary according to one's stance on animal welfare—for me—the educational value is undeniable as it offers glimpses of creatures not encountered in daily life.
Similarly—and with proper usage—AI has the potential to expose children to new experiences without leaving their desks or classrooms: saving time while broadening horizons.
I shared this image with two of my colleagues via WhatsApp, asking what they thought of the image that I had created that day and asked them to share their thoughts on my work. My choice of words was intentional; I never claimed to have taken the photo, only that I had created it.
To my surprise, both colleagues were quite impressed by the image – perhaps even overwhelmed. They assumed that I had photographed each element myself, despite my careful phrasing. One even remarked on its realism.
In this instance, it seems they took the image at face value without considering any deeper meaning or questioning its origin.
Later in the week, I presented this image to new MS students in Biological Photography and imaging at the School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham. Again carefully choosing my words, I asked their thoughts on the picture created the previous Sunday without revealing its origin. My intent was not to try and fool them but to see how closely they examined it and to see if they could pick up on the mistakes within the image.
I allow the students to view the image and I neither confirmed nor denied that the image was AI-generated, leaving them to discern its authenticity independently. To my surprise, none of these students recognised that it wasn't a genuine photograph but rather a product of artificial intelligence.
This brings me to ponder the significance of information presented through the influence of a trusted individual. In such cases, we might not scrutinise the facts as diligently as we should. I believe it is crucial for us to examine what is presented with greater depth and assess its genuineness, regardless of who delivers it.
Photo editing has been evolving over many years. If we cast our minds back to painters who suddenly found themselves competing with photographers – how did they feel during that transformative period? It is important to examine imagery more closely and appreciate its impact on our lives.
The use of artificial intelligence in generating images that were once impossible is an incredible feat in creativity. However, imagination alone does not suffice; creativity plays a vital role as well. A harmonious blend of both imagination and creativity paves the way for truly groundbreaking achievements in visual artistry.
With this in mind, it is evident that creators have been skilfully utilising Photoshop since its inception. They have adeptly removed and added elements to images, incorporating artificial intelligence into the creative process for over two decades.
In fact, I recall the days when darkroom technicians could expertly manipulate negatives by removing or adding components. Could this be considered an early form of artificial intelligence created by humans?
The use of AI in tools like Photoshop has undoubtedly expanded our creative potential and enabled more people to explore their artistic abilities. It raises a thought-provoking question: does integrating AI technology simply enhance creativity for those who might not have had access to it before? This fascinating concept merits further consideration.
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