Embracing the Art & Craft of Manual Photography in the Age of A.I.

In a world increasingly dominated by technological advancements, the art of photography stands at a crossroads. The allure of A.I.-driven gadgets promising effortless perfection has captivated many, but as a seasoned photographer, I urge you to pause and consider the true essence of the craft – the lost art of shooting in manual mode.

Recently, a student reached out to me, excited about a new A.I. gadget that automates camera settings based on readings it takes. In response, I couldn't help but express my reservations. "You might as well buy someone else's photos," I remarked, posing two crucial questions: Where's the art? Where's the craft?

A.I. in photography is not a novel concept.

From spellcheck to auto modes on cameras, Portrait Pro, Topaz Labs, Lightroom and Photoshop – it has been woven into our photographic experiences for a while. The buzz surrounding A.I. is largely a result of marketing strategies that have brought its power to the forefront.

Programs like Open Art and Midjourney can even generate images from scratch, eliminating the need to venture out into the world. Yet, in this age of prompt engineering, I ask, where's the fun? Where's the art? Where's the craft?

Call me old-fashioned – and perhaps I am – but I firmly believe that nothing can replace the exhilaration of leaving the comfort of one's home to explore the vast unknown in search of the next masterpiece. The joy lies in the pursuit, in venturing into the wild blue yonder, capturing the essence of landscapes firsthand.

There's a certain euphoria in hunting for that next image, that perfect composition that elevates existence and brings the satisfaction sought as an artist. As a photographer, understanding the craft, wielding your camera like a master swordsman, is an experience that no A.I. gadget can replicate.

The mastery of the four pillars of Photography- shutter speeds, ISO, aperture, color temperature settings, and the knowledge of how to maximize their functions – these are the skills that transform a photographer into an artist. The journey doesn't end with capturing the image; it extends into post-production.

I encourage you not to succumb to the A.I. craze if your goal is to become an artist photographer who comprehends composition and the technical intricacies of post-production. Capture the image with the prowess of manual photography, then delve into the A.I. functions of Photoshop and Lightroom for post-processing if you like. I see these features in postproduction a little different- as improved darkroom tools to use and they are only going to get better moving forward.  

I believe my perspective on using A.I. functions in post-production as improved darkroom tools are spot on. While I advocate for the preservation of the art and craft of manual photography, I also recognize the undeniable advancements in post-processing technologies, particularly in tools like Photoshop, Lightroom and other software programs.

These A.I. functions serve as powerful enhancements to our creative process, akin to having a refined set of darkroom tools at our disposal. They offer the photographer unprecedented control and flexibility in bringing out the best in their captured images. From subtle adjustments to more intricate manipulations, A.I. in post-production can be a valuable ally.

The key lies in striking a balance between the artistic intuition and technical expertise involved in manual photography and the convenience and efficiency offered by A.I. tools. Using A.I. for post-processing doesn't diminish the skills of a photographer; instead, it complements and extends their capabilities.

Remember, these A.I. features will only continue to improve, opening up new possibilities for creative expression. Embracing them as tools in the photographer's arsenal allows for a seamless integration of traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology, fostering a harmonious relationship between the past and the future of photography.

So, continue to capture your images with the prowess of manual photography, relishing the hands-on experience and connection with your craft. Then, when the time comes for post-processing, consider the A.I. functions as your virtual darkroom tools – refining, enhancing, and elevating your photographic art to new heights. It's a synergy that holds the promise of unlocking even greater creative potential in the world of photography.

Don't trade your intellect and knowledge of your camera for shiny new A.I. tools. Instead, invest in learning your craft, shooting like a pro, and relishing the satisfaction that comes with creating art from the heart. Embrace the art and craft of manual photography – it's a journey worth taking.