Why AI Editing May Hurt Your Photography More Than It Helps

AI is rapidly changing the photography industry, from editing tools to commercial applications. While it can speed up workflows and automate tasks, it also raises concerns about creativity, authenticity, and job security. The balance between efficiency and artistic control is something every photographer has to navigate.

Coming to you from William Hall of The Monochrome Memoirs, this thoughtful video breaks down how AI is affecting photography and what it means for those working in the industry. Hall takes a strong stance on limiting AI’s role in his workflow, particularly in wedding photography. He explains that while AI tools can make culling and editing faster, they remove a level of human connection that’s essential in storytelling. Automated selection processes may choose technically correct images but fail to recognize the emotional weight of certain moments. Because he was present for those moments, he prefers to make those decisions himself.

Hall also touches on editing and why he avoids AI-driven color grading and bulk adjustments. Lighting, venue conditions, and the overall mood of a wedding vary from one event to another. Applying a blanket AI filter strips away the subtle adjustments that tailor a gallery to each client. He does use AI for minor tasks like skin smoothing and noise reduction but keeps final adjustments completely manual. This ensures that every image retains a sense of artistry and intention rather than feeling like an assembly-line product.

Beyond individual workflows, Hall raises concerns about AI’s broader impact on commercial photography. As AI-generated content becomes more advanced, companies may shift toward using AI-created images and videos rather than hiring professionals. While he believes wedding photography will remain secure due to the human interaction involved, other fields like advertising and editorial work could see fewer opportunities. This shift might push more photographers into industries where AI has a smaller role, increasing competition in those spaces. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Hall.