I have been talking to my friend John for the last couple of days about AI and digital photography, so I decided to formalize some of the thoughts I shared with him into an article for you to read and consider.
In the comments section below, let me know your thoughts about AI and my article.
If there were ever a time to support large and ultra large format analog photography, this would be the time.
Explore how you can support my Pictorial Whispers Project and become part of a community dedicated to celebrating art and healing. By joining as a member, you will gain exclusive access to several unique benefits, including behind-the-scenes updates, early access to view new works, exclusive access to me, and much more. Your support helps sustain this deeply personal project, allowing me to continue creating meaningful art that resonates with memory, loss, and renewal themes. Join me today and become a part of the journey.
The Impact of AI on Photography: A Personal Perspective
As a large format analog fine art photographer, AI doesn’t mean anything to me, nor does it affect my work. However, I recognize that AI is set to significantly impact the world of photography, potentially harming many photographers who currently make a living from their craft. This article explores why AI is detrimental to photography and the importance of maintaining traditional photographic practices in the modern age.
Why AI Hurts Photography
AI’s encroachment into photography is problematic for several reasons:
- Loss of Authenticity: AI-generated images lack the authenticity and emotional depth that come from human creativity and skill. Photography is an art form rooted in the physical manipulation of light, film, and paper. When a computer generates an image, it becomes a form of artificial graphics, not true photography.
- Economic Impact: Commercial and landscape photographers are at significant risk of losing their livelihoods as AI makes it easier to create high-quality images without the need for a photographer. This technology threatens to undermine the value of the skills and knowledge that photographers have spent years honing.
- Devaluation of Art: AI’s ability to produce images with incredibly high resolutions devalues the craft of creating real images. The experience, knowledge, and artistry involved in traditional photography make it unique. When these elements are removed, the final product loses its essence and connection to the artist. AI-generated images that look real cannot be called photographs, nor should they be called photographs. They are computer-generated graphic images.
The Importance of Analog Photography
The significance of large and ultra-large format platinum and palladium fine art prints is becoming increasingly apparent for collectors. These handmade fine art prints are not just images; they are pieces of art created through a meticulous process that involves film, paper, chemistry, and light. Look at my Pictorial Whispers artist statement and tell me if an AI-generated graphic image can be driven to create personal and expressive artwork born from human emotion.
Here’s why handmade analog fine art photography are critically important:
- Authenticity: Each print is a testament to the photographer’s skill and dedication. Unlike AI-generated images, these prints are created by hand, ensuring that each one is unique and carries the artist’s personal touch.
- Longevity: Platinum and palladium prints are known for their longevity. They can last for centuries without significant degradation, making them valuable investments for collectors.
- Statement of Authenticity: I plan to include a disclaimer in my galleries that attests my images are AI-free and created using traditional analog methods. This statement of authenticity ensures that collectors know they are purchasing genuine works of art.
Exhaustion with Modern Photography Tools
The modern photographer is often caught in a never-ending cycle of purchasing new software and computer equipment, driven by marketing companies and manufacturers. This constant upgrade cycle is exhausting and detracts from the true art of photography. In contrast, my approach focuses on the following:
- Simplicity and Sustainability: I no longer need to buy another camera or lens unless I want a different focal length. I continue to use FP4 film for my projects, but I am also prepared to make my own film if it becomes unavailable. I need an ISO speed of 100 for my wild horse Pictorial Whispers project, at least for the images involving wild horses. I am actively working in the background on improving the EI rating of my silver gelatin emulsions in a small darkroom laboratory environment. I can make orthochromatic ISO 25 silver gelatin emulsions and coat them on glass plates or a film substrate today without issue. I need to work on the dyes for panchromatic emulsions and increase the speed to ISO 100.
- Historic Workflow: I have proven that it is possible to create my own glass plate negatives, silver gelatin, and collodion, as well as calotype paper negatives. This historic workflow allows me to maintain complete control over the photographic process and ensures that my work remains true to its roots. This has worked well for my landscape and still life projects, but I need a faster emulsion to photograph wild horses.
- Digital Edits: My workflow for my website only requires basic edits of scanned negatives and platinum/palladium prints to post on my website for marketing purposes. I don’t need anything digital to create my platinum and palladium prints. I have been using Adobe Photoshop for this historically. Recently, Adobe has been reported to be under investigation for doing nefarious things to their users, such as recording their screens, etc. Also, the DOJ is suing Adobe for making the cancellation process unnecessarily difficult for users and issues related to hidden fees. Therefore, I am exploring Photoshop alternatives to find the best one for my needs, further distancing myself from the reliance on modern software and the neverending treadmill of “upgrades” and all the fees associated with all of this.
Conclusion
AI may be changing the world of photography, but it will never replace the experience, knowledge, and art of creating real photographic images. As a large format analog fine art photographer, my work represents a commitment to authenticity, tradition, and craftsmanship. By focusing on the art of our craft and stepping off the consumer treadmill, we can preserve the true essence of photography for future generations.
By remaining true to my artistic vision and values, I continue to create meaningful, authentic works that stand in stark contrast to the artificiality of AI-generated images. My work is a testament to the enduring power of traditional photography, and I invite collectors and art enthusiasts to join me in celebrating this timeless craft.
Explore how you can support my Pictorial Whispers Project and become part of a community dedicated to celebrating art and healing. By joining as a member, you will gain exclusive access to several unique benefits, including behind-the-scenes updates, early access to view new works, exclusive access to me, and much more. Your support helps sustain this deeply personal project, allowing me to continue creating meaningful art that resonates with memory, loss, and renewal themes. Join me today and become a part of the journey.