AI in Photography: Friend, Foe, or Just Another Button We Pretend to Understand?
Photography has come a long way since the days of darkrooms and developing trays. These days, the modern photographer’s toolkit doesn’t just include cameras, lenses, and lighting — it also includes algorithms.
Welcome to the age of AI in photography, where machines are learning to retouch, enhance, and even compose images faster than we can boil the kettle. But here’s the real question: should we fear it, embrace it, or quietly let it help us while pretending we still do everything manually? (Asking for a friend.)
AI Behind the Lens – Not Just Science Fiction
AI isn’t taking over our cameras (yet), but it’s definitely creeping into every part of the workflow. From smart autofocus that locks onto an eyelash faster than you can blink, to AI editing tools that remove dust spots, reflections, and even unwanted exes from group photos — it’s already here.
I’ve started using a few of these tools in my own Chichester photography workflow, especially for brand and product photography. They don’t replace creativity, but they do speed up the repetitive parts — like masking a product edge pixel by pixel while your tea goes cold.
AI gives me more time to focus on what actually matters: lighting, storytelling, and capturing personality behind a brand. Whether it’s a Sussex skincare shoot, a handmade candle brand, or a countryside café refresh, AI helps me deliver faster turnarounds while keeping every image authentic and creative.
Editing Just Got a Little Smarter (and Lazier)
Let’s be honest — photographers love talking about our “workflow.” It sounds technical and mysterious, when in reality it’s often a mix of Lightroom, caffeine, and mild panic at 11 pm.
With AI-powered editing tools, that workflow becomes a little smoother. I’ve been testing AI masking, noise reduction that keeps detail crisp, and even AI colour matching that nails the tone from a reference image in seconds.
Am I worried? Not really. If AI can handle the repetitive tasks, I get to do more of what I enjoy — setting up creative lighting, working with local Chichester brands, and soon, using my new home studio (currently being built!) for product and portrait sessions.
AI vs the Human Touch
No matter how clever it gets, AI can’t replicate that gut feeling — when you just know the light’s about to turn golden or when a client’s natural laugh gives you the shot.
That’s what makes photography around Chichester and West Sussex special. One day it’s artisan food in the studio, the next it’s an outdoor lifestyle shoot with a drone dodging seagulls. No algorithm can replace that instinct or those stories.
So, I see AI as more of an assistant — it sharpens, sorts, and tidies, but it doesn’t feel the moment. That’s the photographer’s job, and that’s what keeps local imagery authentic and human.
Should You Fear AI in Photography?
In short — no. Unless it starts asking to borrow your camera.
AI isn’t here to replace photographers; it’s here to enhance what we do. It helps us work smarter, faster, and with more creative freedom. And as I expand my Chichester home studio, I’ll continue using AI tools as part of my process — not to fake perfection, but to help deliver sharper results and faster turnarounds for my clients.
If you’re a small business or brand in Chichester thinking about upgrading your imagery, don’t be put off by the “tech talk.” Whether we use AI, natural light, or good old-fashioned patience, the goal’s the same — to make your brand look its best.
Final Thoughts
AI might be clever, but it still can’t tell a great story — that’s our job.
The future of photography isn’t man or machine; it’s both, working together (preferably with a decent cup of coffee).
If you’d like to see how AI fits into my creative process — or fancy a sneak peek at my new home studio build — follow along or get in touch through www.simonwebsterphotography.com.
