As AI-generated images have begun creeping into art and photography contests over the past two years, sometimes fooling jurors and provoking anxiety and anger among artists, the photographer Miles Astray decided it was time to turn the tides. In an AI category at the 1839 Awards’ Color Photography Contest, judged by industry leaders at Christie’s, Phaidon and the Centre Pompidou, Astray pulled off an act of feathery subterfuge, sneaking in an entry of a real photo of a flamingo he took while in Aruba.

Like AI images, which can bear hallmark signs of wonky anatomy, like too many teeth or fingers, the flamingo appeared headless as it bent its neck to scratch itself with its beak.

To Astray’s surprise, it won both third place in the category — and the People’s Vote award.

“To see it get shortlisted by the jury was a surprise in that it’s always a bit of a lottery in such big contest. There are just so many excellent pictures competing,” Astray told CNN over email. “After it got shortlisted… I thought I might really have a shot and started campaigning for people’s votes, but I had absolutely no idea how far or close I was to winning until the announcement.”

After the winners were revealed, the photographer notified the organization that runs the 1839 Awards, Creative Resource Collective, and took to social media to reveal his trickery.

“I entered this actual photo into the AI category of 1839 Awards to prove that human-made content has not lost its relevance, that Mother Nature and her human interpreters can still beat the machine, and that creativity and emotion are more than just a string of digits,” Astray wrote. “There were ethical concerns, of course, so I was hoping that the jury and the audience would find that this jab at AI and its ethical implications outweighs the ethical implications of deceiving the viewer, which, of course, is ironic because that is what AI does.”

Astray was subsequently disqualified from the competition, with the director of Creative Resource Collective, Lily Fierman, explaining in a statement to CNN that “each category has distinct criteria that entrants’ images must meet… we don’t want to prevent other artists from their shot at winning in the AI category.”

Fierman said there’s “no hard feelings,” and that their team plans to work with Astray to publish a conversation around the state of AI-generated images, using his entry as a “jumping-off point.”

“We hope this will raise awareness (and send a message of hope) to other photographers who are worried about AI,” she added.

Creative Resource Collective did not comment on how their AI and non-AI photography categories are judged and vetted.

As for the flamingo, Astray emphasized it was a serendipitous moment, not one that he sought out.

“I was not actively looking for a picture that would work for this stunt,” he explained to CNN. “Rather, the idea had been roaming in some remote corner of my mind, more subconsciously than consciously I think, and when I saw this picture, it surfaced. It is simply the perfect shot for this because the scene is so unreal and for such a simple, natural reason: a flamingo scratching its belly.”

Vivo Targets Europe with New Mid-Range V40 Smartphone Series

Heralding a robust market challenge, Vivo has recently introduced their mid-range V40 smartphone, which impresses with high-end technical specifications and a commendable camera system. This release, comprising the V40 along with its variants V40 Lite and SE, is part of Vivo’s strategy to cement its influence within the European market. Despite owning about 8% of the global market share, Vivo is seeking greater recognition across Europe.

In a clever marketing move, the launch coincided with the opening match of the European Football Championship in Munich, where Vivo stood as a prominent sponsor. Beyond leveraging this high-profile event for enhanced brand visibility, Vivo is relying on the V40’s technical merits, especially its camera capabilities, to woo European consumers.

The First Mid-Range Device with a Zeiss Camera

The Vivo V40 is the market’s first mid-range smartphone, retailing at 599€, to boast a completely Zeiss-manufactured camera system. While Vivo’s partnership with the German optics titan, Zeiss, isn’t new, it had previously been exclusive to the premium ‘X’ series smartphones.

Vivo Europe President, Changjun Li, expressed excitement over integrating Zeiss’s superior imaging quality, once the preserve of their high-end models, into their more accessible mid-range line.

Photography and Portraiture Standout

The V40 is equipped with a three 50MP camera setup—two rear and one front-facing camera. The main rear camera features an f/1.8 aperture, alongside a secondary ultrawide f/2.0 lens. Despite the absence of a zoom lens, users may appreciate the inclusion of the versatile ultrawide camera, depending on preferences and needs. The front camera facilitates easier group selfies with its wide-angle capability.

Tailored for portrait photography, the rear optics integrate a “Zeiss Multi-focal Portrait” feature to replicate the effect of Zeiss’s portrait lenses. The camera software also includes unique Zeiss-inspired effects, such as the Bokeh Biotar, which emulates the signature background blur of the classic lens series.

Both the V40 and the lower-tier V40 Lite include an Aura Light ring light, meant to simulate professional lighting for eye-catching portraits, a feature indicative of the industry’s broader pivot to portrait-focused technology.

Elegant Design and High Performance

The new V40 sports an elegant, minimalist design that is consistent with its predecessors, part of Vivo’s strategy to maintain brand continuity. Despite its mid-range status, the V40 delivers premium performance with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 processor, accompanied by 12GB of RAM and 512GB of storage. Additional features include dual speakers, IP68 water and dust resistance, e-SIM functionality, and a 5500mAh battery with 80W FlashCharge.

Vivo V40 Lite is positioned as an affordable alternative, featuring Sony camera sensors without Zeiss optimization, and a round camera module on the back. It also comes with a 5500mAh battery, 8GB of RAM, and the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 processor, supporting dual nano SIM cards and e-SIMs.

Both Vivo V40 and V40 Lite run on Android 14 with Vivo’s Funtouch OS 14, lauded for its user-friendly, modular additions to the stock Android experience.

The V40 will be available in Italy starting early July in Stellar Silver and Nebula Purple, priced at 599€ for the variant with 512GB of storage and 12GB of RAM.

The article “Vivo V40 Series Unveiled: Premium Photography on a Budget” discusses the launch of the new Vivo V40 series aimed at the European market, highlighting the fact that this series boasts a Zeiss-manufactured camera system, typically found in higher-end smartphones, at a more affordable price point. Below are added facts, key questions answered, challenges, and the advantages and disadvantages associated with the topic.

Added Facts:
1. Vivo’s Global Presence: Vivo is a major Chinese smartphone manufacturer that has had significant success in Asia, particularly in China and India, prior to targeting Europe.
2. Zeiss’s Reputation: Zeiss is well-known for its high-quality camera lenses, and their inclusion in Vivo smartphones suggests a strong emphasis on the device’s photographic capabilities.
3. Competition: The European smartphone market is highly competitive with established brands like Apple, Samsung, and Xiaomi. Vivo entering this space presents new competition, especially in the mid-range sector.
4. Latest Android Version: The smartphones will be running Android 14, which is a future release, suggesting these phones are preparing for longevity in the market.
5. Memory Variants: While the article mentions a 512GB version, it is common for smartphones to be offered in different storage capacities, which could be the case with the Vivo V40 series.

Key Questions Answered:
– What makes the Vivo V40’s camera system stand out?
The Vivo V40’s camera stands out because it’s the first mid-range smartphone with a camera system manufactured by Zeiss, a renowned optics company. This promises premium-quality photography at a more affordable price point.

– What are the key features of the Vivo V40 and V40 Lite?
The V40 features a triple 50MP camera, Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 chipset, 12GB of RAM, 512GB of storage, and various premium functions such as IP68 resistance and 80W fast charging. The V40 Lite offers a slightly scaled-down experience with a Sony camera sensor, Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 chipset, and 8GB of RAM.

Key Challenges and Controversies:
1. Market Penetration: Vivo faces the challenge of breaking into a market crowded with established competitors.
2. Brand Recognition: Building brand recognition and trust in a new market such as Europe, where consumers might be less familiar with Vivo compared to other brands.
3. After-Sales Service: Establishing a robust after-sales support network to earn customer loyalty and compete with service infrastructure offered by competitors.

Advantages:
+ Premium camera features in a mid-range smartphone.
+ Competitive technical specifications such as high RAM and large storage capacity.
+ Modern Android operating system with added user-friendly customizations through Funtouch OS 14.
+ Elegant design aesthetics that could appeal to style-conscious consumers.

Disadvantages:
– Lack of a zoom lens in the V40 might deter some photography enthusiasts.
– New to the European market, which might affect consumer confidence in after-sales support and warranty services.
– Competition with aggressive pricing strategies from other brands could present a difficult challenge.

For further related information, you can visit Vivo’s official website: vivo.com. Please note this URL is provided for a possible direct source of such product information, based on my last update. Always verify the validity of URLs independently as they can change overtime.

Night Fever: Film and Photography After Dark explores the myriad ways nighttime is represented in the mediums

June 14, 2024

(InvestigateTV) — Mark Sennet knows more about photography than most people ever will.

“My parents didn’t want me to do this, but I did it anyway,” he said.

He is living proof that mom and dad don’t always know best.

You might not recognize his name, but there’s a good chance you’d recognize his work.

Sennet spent three decades — the ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s — as one of the nation’s premiere photographers, working for Life and People magazines.

He’s snapped photos of Stephen Spielberg, Mick Jagger, the British royal family, Richard Pryor, the Boston Strangler and more.

But his subject on Saturday was not a director, rock star or a head of state, but Dr. Seth Stern and his wife. It’s part of a project Sennet is working on to photograph celebrities and non-celebrities alike.

“It’s very impressive being photographed by Mr. Sennet,” Stern said.

Stern has frontotemporal dementia, a cognitive disease that affects speech, personality, and movement. There is no cure.

“Just because you have a memory disorder doesn’t mean you’re a vegetable,” Stern added.

The end goal of the project is a coffee table book destigmatizing cognitive disorders. Sennet is working in conjunction with the Georgia Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association.

Reporter Joshua Skinner shares more of Mark’s story here.

Copyright 2024 Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

Embark on a photographic exploration of the charming inner harbor of Maassluis with renowned mobile photographer Saskia van Kuijen. During the much-anticipated Week of Culture, Saskia will guide enthusiasts through the picturesque scenes of this historic locale, offering a unique perspective right from the screen of their smartphones.

Participants of Saskia’s workshop will uncover the untapped potential of their mobile devices, transforming the way they capture images. Those interested in honing their photography skills can join Saskia on June 23rd. Although the initial session is sold out due to popular demand, enthusiasts still have the opportunity to grab tickets for a subsequent workshop through Saskia’s dedicated website, saskiavankuijen.com.

With a minimum of six and a maximum of twelve attendees, the workshop promises an intimate setting that fosters learning and creativity. Whether amateur or seasoned in the art of photography, participants will leave astonished by the newfound capabilities of their phones and the stunning perspectives they can achieve.

Secure a spot in this exclusive workshop and prepare to capture the essence of Maassluis through a digital lens while gaining invaluable photographic insights.

Important Questions and Answers:

Q: What is the purpose of Saskia van Kuijen’s smartphone photography workshop?
A: The workshop aims to help participants realize the potential of their smartphone cameras and to improve their photography skills while capturing the historic and picturesque scenes of Maassluis’s inner harbor.

Q: When is the workshop scheduled, and are there multiple sessions available?
A: The initial workshop is on June 23rd, and due to high demand, the first session is sold out. However, additional sessions are available, and interested parties are encouraged to check Saskia’s website for tickets.

Q: What is the participant capacity for the workshop?
A: The workshop is designed to be intimate and conducive to learning, with a minimum of six and a maximum of twelve attendees per session.

Key Challenges or Controversies:

One key challenge for smartphone photography, particularly in historical areas like Maassluis’ harbor, is the potential limitation of smartphone cameras compared to professional DSLR or mirrorless cameras in terms of image quality, control, and flexibility. However, advancements in smartphone camera technology have significantly narrowed this gap.

Controversy sometimes arises regarding the artistic value of smartphone photography compared to traditional photography, with purists perhaps arguing that the ease of use and accessibility of smartphone cameras may diminish the skill and craft of photography. Nonetheless, the integration of smartphone photography into mainstream and professional practices continues to grow.

Advantages and Disadvantages:

Advantages:
– Smartphones are compact and always with us, making it easier to capture moments spontaneously.
– Advances in smartphone technology provide high-quality images suitable for social media and even print.
– The ease of use and accessibility allows more people to explore photography without the need for expensive equipment.
– Workshops like Saskia’s provide a communal and educational experience, enhancing participants’ understanding of photographic techniques.

Disadvantages:
– Smartphones may have limitations in image quality compared to high-end cameras, especially in low-light conditions or when requiring precise manual controls.
– Battery life can be a constraint during extensive photography sessions.
– The use of smartphones might encourage a more casual approach to photography, potentially overlooking the technical aspects and artistry involved in traditional practices.

For those interested in exploring similar activities beyond Maassluis or seeking further information on smartphone photography, reputable domains to visit include:
– National Geographic: for inspiration and tips from world-renowned photographers.
– Apple or Samsung: for insights into the latest smartphone camera technologies and features.
– Instagram: for a platform to view, share, and learn about smartphone photography from a vast community of photographers.

Remember to visit these main domains for the most up-to-date and broad information, as offering direct links to subpages is not within the parameters of this response.

Is becoming a professional photographer worth it these days, especially in 2024? I asked myself this question in 2023 every other day, as it was one of the most difficult years since I had become a professional photographer over ten years earlier.

Is it worth it to become a professional photographer when everyone thinks they are a photographer, and the structure of the business and what companies are willing to pay a photographer has all changed? No one can answer that question for you. You need to decide for yourself if you can hack it, if you can go days and weeks without work, which means no money coming in, then go for it. But, if you are looking for a steady paycheck and security, you may want to rethink going pro.

In this video, Tin House Studio explains the difficulty of becoming a photographer. If you have a family and a great job, maybe starting a photography career right now is not the best idea.

To make it through the difficult times and to thrive, you must have a real passion for photography, not the cameras, lights, or all the technical gear, but actually taking photos. If yes, then you have a chance at making it all work. But, you have to be good; there is too much competition out there to be just okay, so hard work and networking are imperative.

Do what is right for you, and make sure you know what you are in for before starting a new photography career. Take it from me, it’s challenging in so many ways, but it’s also really great when things are working in your favor.

Portrait photography is not just about the technical details; it’s about the story you tell through your lens. Let’s dive into some insights from seasoned professionals that can help you elevate your portrait photography game.

Coming to you from Pat Kay with Julia Trotti, this enlightening video discusses the evolution of a photographer from casual snapshots to a full-fledged career. Trotti’s journey began with simple, creative portraits using props and progressed to mastering digital editing. Her experiences highlight the importance of starting with what you have and continuously improving your skills. The video emphasizes how early exposure to creative activities and supportive environments can foster a lifelong passion for photography. Building a strong foundation in creativity can significantly impact your growth as a photographer.

Trotti talks about her transition from traditional art forms like drawing and painting to digital photography, influenced by her father introducing her to Photoshop. This shift opened up a new world of creative possibilities. She mentions the initial excitement of digital painting and how it eventually led her to photography. This narrative underscores the importance of being open to new tools and techniques, which can lead to unexpected and rewarding career paths. Diversifying your skills can enhance your photographic work, making it richer and more versatile.

Trotti also touches on the significance of having a supportive community. Her parents and even a neighbor played roles in nurturing her creative interests. The video suggests that finding a community, whether in person or online, can provide valuable feedback, encouragement, and opportunities for collaboration. 

For those interested in the technical side, Trotti’s early experiments with Photoshop involved editing stock images, which taught her essential skills like masking and manual adjustments. This hands-on learning process is something every aspiring photographer should consider. Her journey from manual editing to using advanced software highlights the continuous learning curve in photography, one that never ends. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Trotti and Kay.

The best portrait photographs show us “what it means to be alive, offering solace and insight, inspiration, and understanding. The photographer pries loose those things that words can’t describe that ineffable essence that makes a person who they are. They snatch it out of the ether and passes it along to us. It’s magic.”

Aubrey Chandler demonstrates that magic with every photo shoot, allowing her subjects to show their true selves to create and elevate their brand.

Chandler is a multi-talented entrepreneur who, initially recognized for her talent in acting and modeling, ventured into private aviation, real estate and then the world of entertainment, all of which are successful ventures. She has worked with Shaquille O’Neal, Snoop Dogg, Alicia Keyes, Chayanne, Ricky Martin, and many others. But it was when she picked up a camera that her career expanded to helping A-listers and celebrities discover the essence of their brand through her lens. Her photographs have graced many magazine covers including Rolling Stone, People, and Marie Claire. One of her photos became a three-story billboard in Times Square.

Chandler’s interest in photography started by accident when her compact Canon Elf was stolen. She used her tax refund to buy a professional camera, and invited her friend, actress, Jamie Bernadette, over for a day to take pictures. It was then then that Chandler, with no training in photography, found out “how happy it made her feel to bring out the beauty in others.” That day changed her life.

Chandler shared with me that “the secret to making her subjects shine is making them feel like the most empowered person in the room. For me, it’s all in the eyes – that’s what captivates me in an image. I love capturing the soul.”

Chandler goes on to say that she works to ensure the models feel their best and are genuinely enjoying themselves. “This positive energy is evident in the images. It’s truly contagious and entices the consumers to want that feeling too.”

Using photography in your marketing is the “perfect place to tell your brand’s story and explain your “Why” to establish an emotional bond with your consumer. Utilizing photography, specifically to provide a voice for your brand, helps create a visual marker for your brand so that it can be recognized immediately by the consumer.”

A strong brand image makes the product or person stand out. “Well communicated brand values can shape the customer experience almost as much as the product itself.”

Chandler credits her success by capturing authentic moments and creating a positive atmosphere during shoots. “My background in acting and modeling helps me connect with subjects, ensuring they feel comfortable and happy. This genuine energy translates into compelling images. Additionally, my meticulous attention to lighting and settings enhances the storytelling aspect of my work. Building strong, genuine relationships and drawing inspiration from my late mentor, Joy Nash, have also been crucial. Combining technical skill with emotional intelligence allows me to create impactful, relatable imagery that resonates with audiences.”

Chandler uses the connection she establishes with her clients along with her business savvy to create this emotional bond with the consumer and elevate the brand. “Creating a brand with an emotional bond through a photo requires showcasing the product in a relatable way for the audience.”

Chandler’s work with a skincare line that targeted a health-conscious, organic-minded crowd, used models that reflected that demographic. The use of appropriate lighting, strategic product placement in the right settings, and selecting the right publications all significantly impacted the branding. “By aligning these elements with the target audience’s values and lifestyle, a photo can effectively create a powerful emotional connection and reinforce brand loyalty.”

One of her clients, a Latina celebrity who appears on television almost daily, wanted to expand her brand and reach a larger audience. Chandler discussed with her how each magazine has a unique style, leading her client to understand the need for more personal editorial photographs, beyond the typical TV host or spokesperson shots.

Another client “is a male celebrity who was recently in the press, not by choice, but due to the drama surrounding his A-list ex-wife who brought him back into the spotlight.” Chandler is marketing him as “the hottest, most eligible Latin bachelor, which he truly is!”

A testament to her talent, Chandler recently solidified her reputation as a visionary connector and business savant by orchestrating one of her client’s debuts on the prestigious TED Talk platform.

Chandler’s business success stems from her ability to build long-standing professional relationships. “Throughout my career, I have collaborated with a diverse range of individuals, including celebrities, entrepreneurs, and motivational figures. I have cultivated not only professional relationships but also genuine friendships with celebrities, editors and others. When I first started photography, I collaborated with some fantastic brands, which led to opportunities such as shoot a cosmetics campaign for Sephora and a campaign for L’Occitane. These collaborations resulted from referrals from existing friendships.”

“I’m a spontaneous person,” Chandler added, “Who thrives on learning as I go. I adjust and adapt along the way. I’m constantly tweaking and experimenting. I believe in my clients’ brands and I’m willing to take risks. I introduce my clients to innovative branding strategies, and I get their image or product in front of the masses with a strategic marketing approach.”

Bonnie Marcus, M.ED, is the author of Not Done Yet! How Women Over 50 Regain Their Confidence and Claim Workplace Power and The Politics of Promotion: How High Achieving Women Get Ahead and Stay Ahead. An executive coach and speaker, Bonnie is also host of the podcast, Badass Women At Any Age.

RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA, UNITED STATES, June 14, 2024 /EINPresswire.com/ — Sarah Anne Wilson Photography is excited to announce the launch of its Corporate Onsite Headshot service, designed to bring professional headshot photography directly to businesses in Raleigh and Cary, North Carolina. This service allows employees to have their professional headshots taken at their place of work, offering convenience without sacrificing the quality and personalized touch Sarah Anne Wilson Photography is known for.

Sarah Anne Wilson, the creative force behind the studio, shared her thoughts on this new venture: “We understand that time is a valuable asset in today’s fast-paced corporate environment. Our Corporate Onsite Headshot service is our response to that challenge. We’re bringing our unique, relaxed approach to the workplace, making professional headshots more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.”

This service aims to provide a solution for companies seeking to enhance their professional image. It eliminates the need for employees to travel to a photography studio, thereby saving time and streamlining the process. The studio’s team will set up a fully equipped mobile studio at the client’s location, ensuring that each photograph is of the highest quality and reflects the professionalism of the individual and the company.

At Sarah Anne Wilson Photography, the focus has always been on creating a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere, and this philosophy extends to their onsite service. Their approach is designed to put employees at ease, resulting in headshots that are both professional and personable.

The Corporate Headshot service is ideal for various professional needs, such as headshots for company websites, LinkedIn profiles, and marketing materials. It’s a versatile option for businesses of all sizes, providing a tailored solution for companies looking to update their professional imagery.

Flexibility is a key feature of this service, with Sarah Anne Wilson Photography offering full-day or half-day bookings to accommodate the size of any team. The package includes individual headshots, group shots, and a pre-session consultation to discuss specific requirements and preferences.

The studio’s commitment to excellence has earned praise from numerous clients, who highlight the comfortable photoshoot experience, Sarah’s professionalism, and the superior quality of the headshots.

Based in Cary, North Carolina, Sarah Anne Wilson Photography has become a respected name in the field of professional headshot photography. With over six years of experience, the studio has helped numerous individuals and businesses project a confident and professional image.

For more information or to book a Corporate Onsite Headshot session, businesses are encouraged to contact Sarah Anne Wilson Photography directly. This service is a step forward in making professional photography more accessible and enjoyable, ensuring that every corporate headshot reflects the professionalism and uniqueness of the individuals and teams they represent.

Sarah Anne Wilson
Sarah Anne Wilson Photography
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Photographer and writer Miles Astray’s piece “F L A M I N G O N E” received honors from both the jury and the public vote in the AI category of the prestigious 1839 Awards despite the award-winning image of a flamingo with a missing head not being AI-generated.

Recently, we have been talking a lot about AI and what it means for the industry’s creators, artists, and other creative professionals. Due to its implications for the future of content creation, Miles Astray submitted a genuine photograph into an AI category to stress the continuing relevance of human-made content. Surprisingly, this photo is the first authentic image to win an AI award.

Lately, AI-generated images have increasingly won photo competitions, even in categories they weren’t supposed to be, showcasing what the technology is capable of. “I wanted to demonstrate that nature still surpasses machines in terms of imagination and that real work from real creatives still holds significant value,” Astray explained.

The photograph was nominated by an international jury with members from institutions such as the New York Times, Phaidon Press, Getty Images, Centre Pompidou in Paris, Christie’s, and Maddox Gallery. It was shortlisted for both the jury’s award and the people’s choice award. Ultimately, it secured the people’s choice award and was recognized by the jury’s winners. 

 “We’ve all seen a flamingo, but have you ever seen a flamingone? Only an AI could make that up. Or did I just make that up?” wrote Astray. “The scene’s only prompt is an itch, followed by a belly scratch, which explains the flamingo’s missing head. I acknowledge leading the jury astray, but I think that they are professionals who might find that this jab at AI and its ethical implications outweighs the ethical implications of deceiving the viewer, which, of course, is ironic because that is what AI does.”