magazine
2024.09.07

The Future of Photography and AI: Balancing Creativity and Ethics | Release #265

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Cover image by daphoto

How is the rapidly evolving AI technology impacting the world of photography? AI-driven photo editing and image generation are expanding the possibilities for creative expression, while also highlighting new challenges we face.

This time, we examine these ethical challenges using Meta's response as a case study.

The Evolution and Impact of AI Photo Editing

With the advancement of AI technology, photo editing has become more efficient, reducing the time required. For example, facial recognition and image classification technologies make it easy to search and manage specific people or scenes. Additionally, AI supports automatic photo correction and the application of effects and filters, helping to create more creative works.

However, on the other hand, AI editing can compromise the authenticity of photos. It can alter the moment captured by the shutter, rewriting the facts.

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Image by the Oji brown

Meta's Response and Ethical Challenges

Recently, Meta faced criticism for its delayed response to non-consensual deepfake images of two female public figures in India and the United States. It also became a topic of discussion when an advertisement used the image of a well-known Japanese entrepreneur without permission. These cases highlight the ethical challenges posed by AI-driven image alterations.

In particular, when the deepfake image of the Indian public figure was posted on Instagram, Meta failed to remove it until the Oversight Board intervened, despite receiving the initial report. In the case of the American public figure, the image was immediately removed from Facebook, but the response was criticized for being slow in deactivating the account after the issue came to light.

As AI technology evolves, the issue of how platforms protect users has become prominent. Additionally, as AI-driven image alterations spread, companies are questioned on how they manage content and protect users appropriately.

Freedom and Responsibility in Creativity

AI technology opens new avenues for creative expression, but its use comes with significant responsibility. AI-generated images can raise copyright and privacy issues, especially with the risk of unauthorized images being misused.

Creators need to remember ethical considerations and strive for correct usage when utilizing such technology.

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Image by らっしぃ

This time, we delved into the impact of AI technology on the world of photography and the accompanying ethical challenges. As technology evolves, we are required to maximize its potential while using it responsibly. Such discussions will likely continue to be necessary in the future.