The Dawn of Generative AI in Photography: A Work in Progress

The world of photography is undergoing a seismic shift, thanks to the advent of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI). While we're still in the early days of this technology, the pace of progress is nothing short of exponential. Unlike traditional tech advancements that rolled out major updates annually, AI is evolving at a breakneck speed, with significant updates appearing almost weekly.

The allure of generative AI is undeniable. The ability to create images from scratch, without the need for a camera or even a subject, opens up a realm of possibilities that were previously unimaginable. However, it's essential to note that the technology is still in its infancy. Relying solely on AI-generated images can be a bit hit-and-miss, as the algorithms are still learning to perfect their craft.

This learning curve has led to some amusing, if not outright bizarre, outcomes. We've seen AI-generated images of people with an odd number of fingers, animals sporting too many legs, and even ships that appear to be sailing backward. These quirks are not just amusing footnotes; they're indicative of a technology that's still finding its feet.

But here's the silver lining: these imperfections don't spell the end of the road for AI-generated images. Far from it. Traditional editing software like Photoshop can step in to correct these anomalies. This hybrid approach combines the innovative capabilities of AI with the tried-and-true reliability of conventional editing tools. It's a match made in digital heaven, offering the best of both worlds while we wait for AI to catch up.

So, while generative AI continues to evolve and improve, it's comforting to know that we have the tools to bridge the gap. The quirks and glitches we see today will likely become relics of the past, footnotes in the ever-accelerating story of AI and photography. But for now, they serve as a fascinating glimpse into a future that's still unfolding, a future that promises to revolutionise the way we create and perceive images.