The images generated by AI are not only hyper-realistic; They can also be made to embody an infinite variety of features, expressions and aesthetics. A recent example is A message from Moritz Stellmacher on x This highlights a very intriguing human portrait, leaving viewers perplexed as to whether it is a photograph of a real person or a creation of AI. This uncertainty highlights the power and realism of modern AI tools, which can now produce images that blur the line between reality and artificial.
But what does that mean for the future of portrait photography? Will the images generated by AI push us to adopt unconventional looks, or will the classic ideals of beauty continue to reign as a master in advertising and the media?
The battle between standard beauty and “interesting” looks
Historically, the modeling industry has respected standard beauty principles – symmetry, clear skin, specific body types and a certain look that uses the widest public. These standards have dictated everything, from fashion tracks to magazine covers and advertisements. However, the emergence of images generated by AI could point out a change towards a more diverse and unconventional aesthetic.
AI models can be designed to have unique, striking or even another world features that question traditional beauty standards. As people get used to these faces created numerically, the demand for more “interesting” looks could increase, potentially redefining what is considered attractive or marketable. Brands could experience these new aesthetics to stand out on a crowded digital market, giving rise to a trend where diversity and individuality occupy the front of the scene.
The potential impact on the modeling industry
The modeling industry already feels the undulations of this technological change. As AI tools become more accessible, companies can start relying on virtual models – figures entirely created by algorithms that can be personalized and controlled to meet precise creative needs. This could reduce the demand for human models, especially for roles where physical presence is not necessary, such as digital advertising or virtual events.
However, it is also possible that the industry is evolving to coexist with the content generated by AI. Human models bring authenticity, emotion and a connection that AI models may not reproduce completely. Tactile experiences, spontaneous emotions and unique quirks that real people bring to a photo shoot cannot be fully replaced by AI.
Future trends: coexistence or competition?
So, will the images generated by AI dominate the future of portrait photography? It is likely that the AI and the content created by man will coexist, each offering unique advantages. Human models will continue to be sought for their ability to transmit an authentic emotion and connect with the public to a personal level. At the same time, the models generated by AI will offer limitless creative possibilities, allowing brands to push the limits and explore new visual territories.
In the end, the trajectory of portrait photography can bend over towards a more inclusive and diversified representation of beauty. Whether it is human photographers or AI algorithms, the future of the visual media could celebrate a wider range of appearance, which questions the conventional ideals of beauty that have been prevailing for so long.
The convergence of AI and photography has a unique opportunity to redefine the aesthetics of portrait photography. Although traditional beauty principles can always hold the swing, there is a growing appetite for images that question the norm, offering something more unique and captivating. As we advance, the question is not whether AI will replace human models, but rather how the two can be used to create a richer and more varied visual landscape.
