There’s no question, AI is not going anywhere, and whether we like it or not, we need to embrace that fact. Artificial intelligence has truly impacted every aspect of our lives, from customer service to the job search. But what about those of us who are creators and artists, the writers, crafters, photographers? How will AI help or hurt photographers in the future? Let’s break it down.
How AI Can Help Photographers?
Using AI in your photo editing process can take the most time-consuming aspect of photography and make it easier. Tools like Aftershoot, Lensa and even Canva can make drastically reduce the amount of time you spend editing your photos.
Another great way AI can help your business is by being there when you can’t. If you have a photography website, look into incorporating AI chatbots to help handle client inquiries. A chatbot can explain pricing, availability or offer suggestions on what types of packages they should choose. Use AI to your advantage by incorporating it into your website and you’ll save time and ultimately make more money.
Negatives When It Comes to AI for Photographers
We’ve all seen them; fake images across the internet, with AI tools anyone can create a seemingly realistic image without ever once clicking the shutter of a camera. These AI photos can be found everywhere from the home decor space on Pinterest, to fake images of celebrities and politicians.
It stands to reason, then that a couple looking for a photographer may opt to purchase AI generated photos rather than paying for an actual photographer to come to their wedding. Unfortunately this does happen, and while nothing can replicate a true photographer showing up to a wedding and creating one-of-a-kind images for the couple, it’s an unfortunate aspect of the advances AI has seen in recent years.
Along the same lines, since these fake images are so easy to come by, their existence tends to diminish the skill, expertise and experience that true photographers bring to their craft. AI and the publics; reliance on it devalues photography as an industry and the years of training and practice that come along with it.
With AI making life easier for non-experts to excel, of course, competition comes into play. AI tools like editing, and technology that can be utilized right from a smartphone, make “everyone” an expert photographer (without training and education).
AI is changing things in the world of photography, in some good ways and some bad. Some tools can create realistic images or edit photos quickly, and people may begin to think they don’t need to hire a professional. This can be challenging, especially if you’re trying to grow your photography business. Plus, AI-generated images are inexpensive, so of course, people may gravitate towards them, so it harder to stand out as a photographer.
So, will AI help or hurt photographers in the future? As technology advances, the chance of more people using it incorrectly increases, making actual photographers’ jobs more difficult. So, it’s important to lean in to what makes your photography and style different.
AI isn’t going anywhere, but by focusing on your business and building skills that AI cannot duplicate, you’re solidifying your place in the market.
How to AI-Proof Your Photography Business
From chatbots and scheduling tools that automate your calendar AI is becoming a regular part of the photographers’ toolkit. So, instead of seeing AI as a threat, though, you can instead lean in to what makes you a great photographer.
AI cannot duplicate your education, training, style, or vision and it does not have your eye for color and composition. You may be excellent at creating the ultimate client experience, or top notch at helping create a special moment for a family. There’s emotion behind what you do as a photographer, AI cannot replicate that.
So, prioritize the personal experience behind your photography. Your clients will remember how you made them feel during their photo shoot. Embrace the AI tools that make the administrative side of your photography business easier.
Use photo editing where you need to, take advantage of chatbots, email follow ups and scheduling apps that utilize AI to make your life easier. AI wil change how photographers work, but it’s never going to duplicate what’s at the heart our business; and that is people, experiences, and emotion.
