For AI that generates images based on user-specified parameters or learned datasets, understanding and expressing serendipitous moments or deep human emotions is challenging and unnatural.
However, the evolution of image generation AI, which enables advanced editing and compositing, is expected to bring new possibilities to creativity and enhance the media value of photography that captures everyday serendipity.
What is Image Generation AI Creating New Possibilities?
Image generation AI is a tool that automatically generates images or illustrations in response to user input prompts, and it can be broadly categorized into the following two types.
Image to Image
This AI technology reconstructs existing images into new ones with different styles or contexts. During the generation process, deep learning models understand the content of the image and regenerate it according to the specified new style or format.
It can be applied to a wide range of areas, including style transformation of artworks, enhancement of photo quality, and reinterpretation of real-world scenes. Notable services include Adobe Photoshop's 'Neural Filters' and 'Deep Art Effects', which specialize in style transformation.
Text to Image
This AI technology generates new images based on text descriptions. The generation process combines natural language processing (NLP) with image generation algorithms to create visuals that embody the scenes, objects, and atmospheres described in the text.
It supports a wide range of text descriptions, from specific instructions to abstract concepts, and is used for generating realistic images or artworks. Notable services include OpenAI's 'DALL·E', Google's 'Imagen', and DeepMind's 'BigGAN', which are expected to be applied in various fields such as creative expression, game asset production, and educational material creation.
Image by Mori
Applications of Image to Image
The Image to Image technology holds the potential to innovate creativity and practicality in the realm of photography, especially digital photography. This magazine introduces specific use cases and benefits of this technology.
Fusion of Photography and Design
By utilizing Image to Image technology, creators can reinterpret their own captured works in new styles. It allows for easy design tasks such as compositing works taken by oneself, cropping, and adding text.
Restoration and Enhancement of Photos
It is also applied to the restoration of old or damaged images. Image generation AI can recognize damaged parts of an image and restore them naturally by interpreting the whole.
Additionally, it can be used to improve image quality by enhancing resolution and removing noise.
The applications and uses of Image to Image technology are endless, but despite its creativity, it is very easy to use. It will bring a wider range of expression to creators' daily creative activities than ever before.
Currently, a photo contest themed 'Serendipity (Unexpected Moments, Surprising Discoveries)' is being held. The beauty of serendipitous moments in everyday life and the creativity born from unexpected discoveries, as well as the beauty and discoveries that emerge from creating new works using Image to Image technology, also constitute serendipity.
Take this opportunity to explore Image to Image and submit your work to the photo contest.
cover image by junya
