AI models

Artificial intelligence (AI) has found its way into the modeling industry. It is increasingly possible to use AI to create beautiful images and have them act in place of “real” models. In videos and photos, people appear with perfect body measurements, great hairstyles, and attractive facial features. AI models can now be designed to look deceptively real; according to surveys, more than two-thirds of viewers cannot recognize the fake. This could lead to a major change in the modeling industry. If computers are able to develop images on their own, “real” models could become increasingly dispensable.

Artificial intelligence generates deceptively real photos of people

Artificial intelligence was developed to transfer human thinking to a digital program as far as possible. This program can now respond independently, generated by AI, and learn more and more from countless pieces of information from the internet. AI can research and write texts independently, and it can also generate images that are almost indistinguishable from photos of real people. Digital twins are detailed 3D representations of real models that reflect the exact appearance, face, figure, and even the movements of the original models.

What changes will this bring about for the modeling industry?

Image and video material can be produced relatively easily to meet a wide range of requirements. This could increasingly render models and photographers superfluous. Even if these programs are not yet perfect, research is advancing rapidly and will be able to have a major impact on the modeling industry in the future.

The use of AI models saves time and money

The fashion world is interested in AI. Catalog producers are already using AI-generated models in some cases. Whether evening gowns, swimwear, or sportswear, AI models can be used to present different outfits in a matter of seconds. There is no need for changing rooms, photographers, or makeup artists, and far less organization is required than with real models and their photographers. Images featuring digital avatars are designed to look just as authentic as the results of traditional photo shoots. AI is also advantageous for companies because it greatly simplifies the creation of image backgrounds. Instead of producing shoots all over the world, a wide variety of backgrounds can be created digitally. This saves a tremendous amount of time and money.

Will virtual models replace “real” models in the future?

Will models and photographers soon be replaced by AI? In online shops, which photograph countless outfits every day, the focus is usually on the product rather than its presentation by a model. In these and many other areas, AI could increasingly find its way in and replace models and photographers. But there are also other opinions. AI may be perfect, but it is far less appealing to viewers than real people. The effect of a virtual person cannot compete with human charisma, even if AI-generated models can embody everything that appeals to us. In a rather superficial world, people have a need for reality. A smooth and exaggerated ideal of beauty does not appeal to viewers in the long run. Brands thrive on being authentic, approachable, and honest, especially when it comes to younger target groups.