AI Creates Images, Not People
Recently, I came across a post from a professional in industrial design suggesting that if artificial intelligence can create polished headshots quickly and cheaply, there’s no reason to hire a photographer.
It’s a fair question, and one that touches a nerve for many creatives. But here’s what this logic misses: AI doesn’t see you.
It doesn’t read your expressions, notice your posture, or sense that subtle shift in confidence when you relax in front of the camera. It only generates what it has learned from millions of existing images, often repeating patterns that make faces eerily similar.
Not only are gestures and photographic styles repeated, even outfits follow patterns.
Even when the result looks technically “perfect,” it’s not you. AI tends to slightly alter bone structure, smooth away individuality, and produce a “residual image” of you. Most people can’t explain what’s wrong, but they feel it, that quiet sense that something isn’t quite real.
© Leticia Gaidon Bradford Photography.
Authenticity Matters More Than Perfection
The power of a professional portrait lies not in flawless skin or perfect symmetry, but in authenticity. When someone sees your real image, they connect with you, your energy, your story, your humanity.
An AI-generated face can’t convey that same emotional truth. In a world already full of bad filters and digital versions of ourselves, authenticity has become the new luxury. It’s what helps professionals and business owners build trust with their audience.
Personally, when I browse Pinterest, one of my favourite sources of inspiration, I leave the app or refresh my feed the moment I notice AI-generated images. I want to see authentic room designs, not unrealistic ones.
The same goes for photography. And younger generations are even more strict about this, they strongly reject artificially generated imagery.
Technology Is a Tool, Not a Substitute
As a photographer and Photoshop retoucher, I embrace technology. I’ve tested AI tools to speed up editing and explore new ideas. But so far, the results feel artificial and soulless.
Even when AI generates “realistic” backgrounds, they often look plastic and take hours to correct imperfections. Technology can assist, but it can’t replace artistic vision, emotional intuition, or human understanding.
© Leticia Gaidon Bradford Photography.
Trust Will Become the New Currency
We are entering a time when AI-generated people are used for fraud and deception — and this trend will only grow. As it does, public trust in digital imagery will decline.
Professionals who build their authentic personal brand online will stand out. When your online image matches who you are in person, you build credibility and trust.
It’s like meeting someone from a dating app who looks nothing like their photos, the disappointment and mistrust that follow can’t be undone.
The Real Advantage: Being Real
AI can generate a version of you, but only a photographer can capture you. Real connection, real light, real emotion, these are things no algorithm can replicate.
Instead of competing on speed or cost, the future of professional photography lies in offering what AI never can: genuine human connection and artistry.
AI isn’t replacing portrait photographers, it’s reminding us why our work matters. It challenges us to highlight what’s real, celebrate individuality, and bring soul back into images in a world that’s starting to forget what that looks like.
Book your free consultation today and discover how professional headshots can elevate your brand.
Follow me in Instagram. Connect with me in LinkedIn.
Thank you for reading.
Bye for now.