Belgian Photographer Embraces Generative AI in New Book, Faces Controversy

In a world transformed by technological advances, the role of art and photography is evolving. Belgian photographer Carl De Keyzer, who has a long history of documenting the complex layers of Russia, found himself unable to travel to the country due to the ongoing war in Ukraine. Instead of resigning to the situation, he turned to generative artificial intelligence (AI) to create a thought-provoking series of images titled Putin’s Dream. Little did he know, this innovative approach would spark intense debate about the ethics of AI in photography.

A Journey Through Time: De Keyzer’s History with Russia

De Keyzer’s relationship with Russia dates back to the late 1980s. During this tumultuous time, he traveled to the USSR a staggering twelve times within a year, capturing the essence of a nation in the throes of change. His lens documented rituals, pastimes, and people that would soon be lost to history. In the following decades, he ventured back to photograph Siberian prison camps, highlighting the struggles and stories within those walls.

Fast forward to November 2023: after three decades since his initial visit, De Keyzer published his latest project, Putin’s Dream. This collection is markedly different from his past work, as it features AI-generated images that abstractly reflect his experiences and insights, yet lack any human subjects.

The Process Behind Putin’s Dream

To construct Putin’s Dream, De Keyzer utilized a text-to-image AI software, feeding it photographs from his previous projects. He deftly adjusted these inputs to align with his distinct visual style. His intention was to create images that would serve as a commentary on the Ukraine war, spurred by the ambitions of one man—Vladimir Putin.

“I was aiming to create a space for reflection on the horrors of war,” De Keyzer says. “AI was the tool I chose to realize this vision.” With the help of artificial intelligence, he crafted what he describes as a blending of irony, humor, doubt, and surrealism—all elements that have shaped his photographic journey.

Public Reaction and Backlash

Despite De Keyzer’s transparent approach regarding the use of AI, the online reception was far from positive. Upon announcing the launch of Putin’s Dream on social media, he was met with a deluge of criticism. The term “fake images” was frequently used, sparking heated backlash that included around 600 negative comments within just two hours. Many of his former supporters expressed their disapproval, stating they could no longer stand behind him.

“The box exploded,” admits De Keyzer. “It was shocking to see so many negative comments. AI still provokes automatic disgust, regardless of its artistic merits.”

While doubts crept into his mind about whether the project was a mistake, De Keyzer also found solace in voices of encouragement that praised his innovative approach. One supporter highlighted the potential of photography to evolve in this digital age, emphasizing that seeing storytelling through AI helps navigate uncharted territories.

The Ethical Dilemma of AI in Photography

As generative AI images become more prevalent, ethical concerns have surged in the art and photography communities. Scott Mahadevan of the Photo Ethics Centre spoke at a symposium on this very issue, noting that misuses of AI could foster an environment of mistrust. He referred to this phenomenon as the “liar’s dividend,” where even legitimate photographs may be scrutinized due to an oversaturation of manipulated imagery.

A significant incident involving AI-generated imagery occurred when artist Boris Eldagsen won a prestigious photography award, leading to calls for a broader conversation about the validity of AI contributions in art. De Keyzer, in contrast, aimed for transparency rather than deception. However, he faced repercussions not only personally but for his association with Magnum Photos, leading to a statement reaffirming the collective’s commitment to original, human-created photography.

The Future of AI in Artistic Expression

The ongoing debate around generative AI highlights a critical crossroads for artists like De Keyzer and his contemporaries. Fellow Magnum member Michael Christopher Brown utilized AI to convey the stories of Cuban refugees, while Jonas Bendiksen leveraged the technology to comment on the implications of misinformation in visual media.

Savannah Dodd from the Photography Ethics Centre pointed out the broader implications of generative AI, noting that it allows creators to depict scenes of places they have not physically visited, raising questions about representation and authenticity.

Key Takeaways

• Evolution of Art: De Keyzer’s work illustrates how technological advancements can redefine traditional art forms like photography, opening new avenues for conveying complex themes.
• Ethical Considerations: The rise of AI-generated images emphasizes the need for ethical discussions and regulations to maintain integrity within the art community.
• Public Discourse: As artists experiment with AI, public reactions are mixed, requiring a greater understanding and education about the potential of technology in creative mediums.

As the conversation surrounding AI in photography progresses, artists will need to navigate its challenges while finding innovative ways to tell their stories. De Keyzer’s Putin’s Dream may pave the way for new discussions about the future of visual storytelling in an increasingly digital world.