What happens when anyone can create text, audio, images and video?

This seems to be the big question that everyone has when it comes to generative artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT, Dall-E, Midjourney and now, Photoshop.

Manipulated photography is nothing new.

We’ve been bearing the brunt of mental health issues because of how perfect photos can seem in a world where everybody wants to look their best.
That’s nothing new under the sun, so why all of this excitement/fear as Adobe and Photoshop start integrating generative AI tools into their ever-expanding toolbox?
It seems like the big deal is how quickly/easily anyone can now add more context to any photo, or – more importantly – manipulate a photo and make it bend to anyone’s creative will.

Anyone can make the beautiful more beautiful.

The real more fantasy.
The fantasy more real.
You get the idea.

The question then becomes: Is it too easy… and too much?

With a simple text prompt, anyone can now re-create and manipulate (or even create) an image.
Powerful.
Perhaps what we’re seeing is not a manipulation of what was, but a true glimpse into where generative AI is going?

With that, may questions follow:

• Should everyone have access to these tools?
• Should manipulated photos be clearly indicated?
• Should this type of technology be regulated?
• Should the creators whose work is being used to build these newer images be compensated?
• Will this create a much greater problem around “fake news,” misinformation and general abuse?
• Should Generative AI be using personal images without consent – what about privacy?
• Will there be a loss of human jobs in the field of photography, journalism, graphic design and beyond?

How “real” do you want your photography to be?

This is what Elias Makos and I discussed on CJAD 800 AM. Listen in right here.

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