Controversial AI image wins historic photography competition.
In a groundbreaking move, Absolutely AI won a popular DigiDirect photography competition with a stunning drone shot of surfers at sunrise. However, this beautiful image isn't real in the traditional sense—it was created using AI.
This was the world's first AI image to win a photography competition.
After the win, we disclosed the AI origins of the image and returned the cash prize.
Our goal was to demonstrate that AI technology has reached a point where it can create images so realistic that they can win photography contests judged by experts.
Jamie van Leeuwen, founder of Absolutely AI, explains, “We wanted to prove that AI could not only produce convincing images but also be recognized for its artistic quality by industry professionals. This is a turning point for AI in creative industries.”
The AI-generated image, submitted under the pseudonym of pioneering 15th century painter Jan van Eycke, highlights how AI can seamlessly blend into traditional art forms, challenging our perceptions and pushing the boundaries of creativity.
Embracing AI in Creative Industries
AI-generated content is rapidly transforming the creative landscape.
Jamie van Leeuwen's journey with the AI tool Midjourney began years ago, well before tools like ChatGPT became mainstream. His fascination with the tool's ability to produce highly realistic images led to the founding of Absolutely AI, a creative agency leveraging AI to innovate for clients ranging from the NFL to film studios and breweries.
Jamie sees AI as a revolutionary tool that can enhance human creativity rather than replace it. “AI can be used to enhance the quality of work in creative fields. For example, it can de-noise, upscale, and sharpen photographs, providing tools to improve existing work without altering its essence,” he says.
The AI Revolution: Opportunities and Adaptation
Absolutely AI’s projects showcase how AI can be seamlessly integrated into creative workflows, allowing artists and creators to focus on the more intricate aspects of their work while AI handles time-consuming tasks. This integration not only streamlines the creative process but also opens up new avenues for artistic expression and innovation.
The agency's work with AI spans diverse projects, from illustrating historical events like the Eureka Stockade to creating AI-generated beer recipes and labels for Modus Brewing.
These projects showcase the vast potential of AI to bring new dimensions to storytelling and product development.
Absolutely AI's recent partnership with STQRY, a leading storytelling platform, aims to transform how historical events and cultural narratives are presented.
This collaboration will help museums and historical institutions use AI-generated imagery and interactive exhibits to engage audiences in immersive experiences.
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