Transparency

My Camera-Based Photography in the Age of Artificial Intelligence

Fine Art Photography. I use the term Fine Art Photography to describe work of exceptional artistic quality, shaped by my creative vision and craftsmanship. For my work, the boundary is clear: the subjects, setting, light, and moment must have been photographed by me. I use post-processing to interpret what I captured, not to invent what was never there.

Some photographers use the Fine Art Photography title for images in which artificial intelligence or imaging software creates or replaces significant elements to achieve their artistic vision. I consider such work digital art rather than photography. I believe collectors deserve to know how an image was created so they can make an informed choice about the art they purchase.

Fine Art Photography in a business title: If you care how an image was made, ask a few simple questions before investing:

• Was this scene photographed in the field, or was it constructed with software or AI?

• Were significant elements added, removed, or fabricated?

• Can the artist provide the original RAW file if requested?

Too often, the photographer answers with statements such as:

"If a client doesn't ask, it's not my responsibility"

"People should already understand how images are made"

"If someone likes the image, how it was made doesn't matter"

My Commitment

My perspective is not intended to limit anyone’s creative expression, but simply to share my belief that photography should be founded on truth and transparency.

David James Winegar