SUMMARY
A debate is dividing wedding photographers regarding the use of AI. Couples are posting accusations of photographers secretly using AI, creating confusion and putting working shooters on the defensive. John Branch IV differentiates between generative AI, which he rejects for creating fabricated images, and assistive AI, which he supports for speeding up editing tasks like tone adjustments and retouching. He argues that technologies like autofocus already use similar processing and that assistive AI reclaims editing time without sacrificing craft, drawing parallels to historical accusations against digital photography and autofocus.
TAKEAWAYS
Wedding photographers are split into two camps regarding AI use.
John Branch IV distinguishes between generative AI (rejected) and assistive AI (supported).
Assistive AI tools can speed up editing and retouching tasks.
The debate highlights the need for clear communication with clients about AI usage.