Photoshop AI Tools in Competition: A Controversial Ban

The Challenge at Hand

What constitutes real photography? This question has sparked heated debates, especially in camera clubs that impose bans on modern techniques. In a recent meeting at a camera club in Atlanta, I was taken aback to discover that members were prohibited from using artificial intelligence (AI) tools, particularly popular functions in Photoshop, in their photo competitions.

This article will address the growing divide between traditional photography methods and the integration of AI technologies. By examining the club’s rationale and exploring the implications of such bans, we can better understand the evolving landscape of photography.

• The club's reasons behind the ban on AI tools.
• Discussion on the ethical considerations of AI in photography.
• The inevitable progression towards AI-driven techniques in creative fields.

As we navigate through these discussions, readers will gain insights into why understanding and embracing emerging technologies is vital for photographers today. Join me as we unravel this contentious issue and explore a path forward that fosters creativity and innovation.

Leveraging Guided Upright

During my presentation, I shared my experience with some of the generative AI tools in Photoshop, which I frequently use. One tool I truly appreciate is Guided Upright, which aids in correcting vertical lines in architectural photography.

• Corrects distortions in vertical lines for a more professional look.
• Sometimes leaves transparent spaces that require additional editing.
• Allows photographers to maintain their creative vision while improving image quality.

When encountering transparent areas left after using this tool, I seamlessly apply Generative Fill to resolve the issue.

Understanding Generative Fill

The club expressed concern that Generative Fill utilizes pixels directly from Adobe’s servers to fill in areas. However, the reality is different. This tool examines the pixels surrounding the area in question, using them as a reference to create new fill pixels.

• Does not take pixels from other photographs, ensuring originality.
• Enhances creativity by allowing for seamless photo adjustments.
• Promotes efficiency in the editing process.

Discussion on Purity in Photography

After my talk, several club members engaged me on the topic of AI tools in photography. I clarified that Adobe’s AI tools are trained ethically, utilizing **Adobe Stock** images. In fact, Adobe compensates those photographers whose images help train their *Firefly* AI model.

Some members argued that AI involvement does not constitute "real" photography and claimed that images captured solely with a camera should be viewed as true photographs.

“Is burning and dodging in the darkroom acceptable?” I asked. “Sure,” came their prompt response.

Next, I inquired whether using the Develop module in Lightroom was permissible. “Of course,” they affirmed.

Continuing the discussion, I asked about the acceptability of Lightroom's masking tools, receiving another positive affirmation. I noted that these masking features are powered by AI as well.

“Yes, but,” they countered, “AI masking does not replace pixels with new ones.”

To clarify, I pointed out, “Replacing pixels is not permitted, then?” They agreed.

Through further questioning, I mentioned using the cloning feature or the Spot Healing brush, both of which they deemed acceptable. When I reminded them that Spot Healing employs content-aware technology—a form of AI—their response was, “That’s different.”

Anticipating the Future of AI in Photography

“Here’s a thought,” I posed to them. “Will any of this matter in five years as AI continues to develop?” They shrugged, suggesting it probably wouldn’t.

My perspective is clear: AI tools integrated with photography are here to stay and will only become more sophisticated over time. Their ability to yield realistic results will encourage photographers to embrace them for improved efficiency.

• Technological advancements have historically driven progress in creative fields.
• The introduction of tools, such as cotton gins and calculators, exemplifies this evolution.
• The advent of Photoshop in the early 1990s faced similar skepticism but has since become an industry standard.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Guided Upright and how does it benefit architectural photography?

Guided Upright is a tool within generative AI tools in Photoshop that aids in correcting vertical lines, which is essential for achieving a more professional look in architectural photography. It has the following benefits:

• Corrects distortions in vertical lines for a more professional look.
• May leave transparent spaces that require additional editing.
• Allows photographers to maintain their creative vision while improving image quality.

2. What should photographers do if Guided Upright leaves transparent areas?

If photographers encounter transparent areas left after using Guided Upright, they can use Generative Fill to seamlessly resolve the issue and enhance their images further.

3. How does Generative Fill work within Photoshop?

Generative Fill examines the pixels surrounding the area in question. It uses those pixels as references to create new fill pixels, which means:

• It does not take pixels from other photographs, ensuring originality.
• It enhances creativity by allowing for seamless photo adjustments.
• It promotes efficiency in the editing process.

4. Are Adobe's AI tools trained ethically?

Yes, Adobe's AI tools are trained ethically. They utilize Adobe Stock images, and Adobe compensates the photographers whose images help train their Firefly AI model.

5. Do AI tools in photography compromise the essence of "real" photography?

Some individuals believe that AI tools and involvement do not qualify as "real" photography and argue that only images captured solely with a camera should be considered authentic. However, the definition of photography has historically evolved with technology.

6. Is the use of tools like burning, dodging, or Lightroom's Develop module acceptable?

Yes, tools like burning and dodging in the darkroom, as well as using the Develop module in Lightroom, are generally accepted practices in photography, despite their alignment with new technologies.

7. How does AI impact traditional editing features like Spot Healing?

The Spot Healing brush utilizes content-aware technology, which is a form of AI. While some argue about the nature of pixel replacement, these traditional tools are also rooted in advanced technology.

8. What is the future outlook for AI tools in photography?

The future for AI tools in photography looks promising. They are expected to become more sophisticated, and their realistic results will encourage photographers to embrace them for:

• Improved efficiency in their workflows.
• Adoption of technological advancements which have historically driven progress in creative fields.

9. How did initial skepticism towards tools like Photoshop compare to today's acceptance?

When Photoshop was introduced in the early 1990s, it faced similar skepticism as modern AI tools do today. Over time, it has become an industry standard, suggesting that current skepticism may fade as AI tools become more integrated and accepted.

10. Will advancements in AI affect how we perceive photography in the next few years?

As AI technology continues to evolve, it is likely that the perception of photography will shift. Many believe that the distinction between traditional and AI-enhanced photography will blur, making AI tools a crucial part of modern photographic practice.