Recently the topic of AI-created images has become increasingly controversial amongst photographers, with many voicing concerns over how AI will impact the photography industry. There are many different, often conflicting, opinions as to whether AI-generated images can be defined as photography. And there are discussions around how to define images created using AI vs. images that are created or edited using other special-effects or retouching programs.
We feel that these issues will be debated for a long time to come, and while there are so many nuances and implications, we wanted to at least address the matter with regards to entries submitted to our photography competition.
We are now introducing a new category for AI-generated images specifically – these are images that have NOT been created using conventional photography methods, or simply digitally altered or edited, but created or generated solely by executing a command to AI.
It would be impossible for us to individually assess each submission before it’s entered and render a verdict as to whether it should be classified as photography based on how it was created. We rely on the integrity of the photographers to enter their work in the right category when they submit their work. There are many existing categories in which photographers can submit images that have been digitally edited or created using special effects with or without a camera, and now there will be a new category designated for AI-generated images.
We want to explore the frontiers of image-creation and be inspired by all the possibilities that modern technology brings to this industry. But we want to be clear in the boundaries between AI-generated images and images created using conventional methods, between technology and human creativity, between computer generated images and a photographer with a camera.
We are also keenly interested in the commands and language used to create AI-generated images, where the input and creative process, combined with AI, produces great images.
Again, we ask photographers who enter work that is AI-generated, to submit their images in the designated category—in this way we can continue to explore and experience this new and fascinating form of expression, and yet remain dedicated to recognising and honouring the true photographer’s art.
