A few days ago, I shared an Instagram Reel in which I talked about my thoughts on artificial intelligence in photography. It is a topic that has been on my mind a lot lately, and I believe many photographers are asking themselves similar questions.

AI is fascinating. The possibilities are evolving at a speed that would have seemed impossible just a few years ago. Today, images can be created within seconds. Faces, people, lighting situations and entire visual worlds can be generated with a few prompts. In my opinion, it would be a mistake to simply ignore this development.

That is why I am exploring the topic myself. Not because I am afraid of it, but because I am genuinely interested in understanding it. I want to learn what opportunities it creates and how our industry may change in the future. At the same time, I hope to find a way to preserve the human element in my work and continue bringing a personal touch into my photography, even in a business environment increasingly influenced by AI.

Competition or Opportunity?

It is obvious that AI-generated imagery will compete with photographers in certain areas. Perhaps even more than we can imagine today.

Still, I consciously try to focus on the opportunities that come with this development. AI can inspire new ideas, support creative thinking and perhaps even help photographers reach new audiences. It can be a tool for visualising concepts and exploring directions that may later become real photographic projects.

Instead of fighting the technology, I want to understand how I can use it in a meaningful way.

The Importance of Authentic Portrait Photography

At the same time, I feel something else happening.

The more artificially generated images become part of our everyday lives, the more valuable authentic photography may become. This is one of the reasons why I feel so connected to portrait photography.

Black-and-white portrait photography, in particular, has been part of my work for many years. It reduces an image to its essence. Colours disappear and the focus shifts more directly to the person. Expression, character and emotion become more visible.

For me, this form of photography is not about perfection.

In fact, anyone who has photographed with me or attended one of my workshops has probably heard me say that I am searching for the perfectly imperfect.

Those small imperfections are what make people interesting. They tell stories. They make portraits believable. They remind us that there is a real person behind every photograph.

Two Different Worlds May Coexist

In my Reel, I also mention that I believe two different developments may emerge over time.

On one side, there will be people who enjoy AI-generated imagery and actively consume or create it. On the other side, I believe there will be a growing group of people searching for something different.

As artificial imagery becomes more common, some people may experience a sense of visual saturation. They may begin looking for photographs that are not perfectly calculated. Images that document a real moment. Portraits that represent a genuine encounter between photographer and subject.

I believe this is where authentic portrait photography has a tremendous opportunity.

People will continue to seek real stories. They will continue to value genuine emotions, personal experiences and photographs that reflect reality.

Why I Started the PORTRAIT MAGAZINE

Perhaps this is one of the reasons why the PORTRAIT MAGAZINE project has become so important to me.

With every issue, I consciously engage with authentic photography. Not as fast-moving social media content, but as something tangible. Something that can be held, explored and experienced.

I love the newspaper-style format. It feels direct, honest and accessible. The photographs are no longer viewed through a screen. Instead, they become physical objects that invite people to slow down and spend time with them.

For me, this format perfectly reflects my philosophy of photography.

It supports my desire to create images that feel real. Images that are not defined by perfection, but by humanity. In a world increasingly shaped by digital and artificially generated content, the magazine has become an important counterbalance.

Order Issue 13 for Free

If my thoughts on authentic portrait photography resonate with you, you may enjoy the current issue of PORTRAIT MAGAZINE.

Issue 13 is limited to just 50 copies. As long as copies remain available, you can order your copy free of charge using the discount code freemag13. Only shipping costs apply.

I genuinely appreciate everyone who takes the time to sit down, turn the pages and experience photography in a more mindful way.

I would love to hear your thoughts. How do you see the future of AI in portrait photography? Will artificial intelligence fundamentally change our profession, or could it make authenticity even more valuable?

Feel free to share your perspective.