Have you ever felt uneasy after watching the news?
In particular, the rapid evolution of AI (artificial intelligence) technology has raised concerns that the work of photographers may be replaced by AI. However, there is another side to this transformation.
In fact, some believe that advancements in AI will further highlight the importance of photographers. This reversal of perspective is generating new interest and discussion.
Photographs as Essential Data for AI Training
The most fundamental and crucial element in AI training is the dataset used for learning. Without high-quality and diverse datasets, AI struggles to learn appropriate patterns. Datasets must be carefully selected according to the nature of the problem and provide sufficient information. Photographs, as sources of visual information, are particularly valuable data for AI.
Image by ohana87
Human thought and imagination are constantly evolving, generating new ideas and perspectives. Photographs, which form the foundation of data, and human creativity itself, play a driving role in the advancement and development of AI technology. Human originality remains indispensable.
AI is still unable to operate a camera and capture photographs for its own training. At least, not yet…
The Challenge of Depicting 'Ordinariness'
While AI is highly versatile and seems capable of anything, it actually struggles to depict 'ordinariness.' In general algorithms, spectacular and eye-catching photographs are easier to learn due to their notable features and unique characteristics. However, ordinary subjects typically lack distinct features or color variations, making them more difficult for AI to generate.
Image by はくらく
Yet, these 'seemingly ordinary photographs,' despite depicting familiar landscapes or everyday moments, tell stories through subtle changes and unique personal experiences embedded in their context. Photographers convey photographic emotion to us by expressing these contexts through their work.
In short, while AI may become Number One, it cannot become the Only One. Even with the highest performance, it struggles to become a truly unique and irreplaceable presence.
A Future Where Photographers and AI Coexist
"AI makes us more human, not less."
This message from Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft, expresses the idea that AI does not replace human abilities but rather enhances them. The future is uncertain, and it is possible that we may face a dystopian scenario where AI takes over human jobs. Looking back at history, when photography first emerged, it was said that painters would lose their work, yet painting continued to exist, albeit with its value transformed. Similarly, the sensibility and creativity of photographers will elevate the evolution of AI technology, and through coexistence, new possibilities for expression will emerge. It is this kind of future that we hope to embrace.
