Welcome to another installment of the Mailbag series, where I answer questions from readers and dive into some of the most talked-about topics in photography, creativity etc.
Question: “With the rise of AI and smartphones, are professional photos and professional photography—especially film—becoming obsolete? Are we reaching a point where technology makes the craft unnecessary?” (paraphrased)
This question comes up a lot, especially in online spaces where debates about the future of photography often seem to blow up overnight. But what’s really driving these conversations? And how much of it is grounded in reality?
Let’s break it down.
In the digital age, where people of all ages and experiences share the same platforms, conversations about technology and photography can take on a life of their own. Different viewpoints emerge, often influenced by personal experiences, excitement over new gadgets, or a limited understanding of what goes into professional photography. Let’s take a look at who’s fueling these discussions.
1. Who’s Saying This?
There are usually a few types of people who tend to jump into discussions about technology replacing professional photographers/professional photos:
The Tech Enthusiast: They’re constantly in awe of the latest gadget or app and often assume that because a phone can now take decent photos, the need for skilled photographers has vanished. What they’re missing is the nuance that goes beyond megapixels and software filters. They see the tool but miss the artistry.
The Misinformed: Some people believe that taking a nice shot on their phone puts them on the same level as professionals. They see their Instagram feed full of “likes” and assume they’ve mastered the craft. Often, this comes from a limited view of what photography can truly be. Without exposure to a broader range of high-level work, it’s easy to think that a well-lit, well-composed shot is all there is to it.
However, professional photography—especially when working with film—requires a deeper understanding of the medium, as well as creative and technical decisions that elevate an image beyond the surface. But rather than trying to convince someone otherwise, it’s often better to let them come to the realization on their own. People with this mindset will generally only see it from their perspective until they encounter something that broadens their understanding—whether that’s seeing truly great work or diving deeper into the craft themselves. Sometimes, letting them find out on their own is more effective than trying to change their view.
The Skeptic: This group sees the rise of AI and automation and assumes it means the death of all creative fields. They tend to equate automation with replacement, failing to see how technology can be a tool in the hands of an artist rather than a substitute.
All of these perspectives are heavily influenced by the online world, where people of all ages and experiences are thrown together into the same conversation. In this space, it’s easy to forget that someone’s viewpoint might be shaped by where they are in life. As people experience different stages—starting families, experiencing loss, or navigating new challenges—their views on creativity and value tend to shift.
2. How Perspectives Evolve
What we feel strongly about at one point in life often changes with time. Someone in their teens might be focused on the latest tech trends and believe it’s the future of everything. But as they go through life—forming relationships, facing new challenges, or finding deeper meaning in their experiences—their perspective on what holds value tends to evolve. Photos, for example, can shift from being something quick and casual to something more meaningful as memories and moments become more precious.
It’s not just about being older, though. Some people may never develop a deep connection to experiences or intangible moments, instead prioritizing more immediate, material aspects of life, regardless of their age.For others, photography holds value in different ways. It’s not just about capturing memories—some people use it as a form of self-expression, a way to see themselves through someone else’s lens, or to communicate an idea that words can’t capture. Being in front of the camera can be as powerful as being behind it. Whether it’s for personal growth, artistic collaboration, or simply feeling seen, photography offers a medium for people to express who they are or how they want to be remembered.
This shift in value isn’t just about documenting a moment—it’s about the intention behind the photograph, the artistry that elevates it beyond simply pressing a button. Photography can be a means of identity, creativity, and connection, whether you're capturing the world or being captured within it.
And that’s why certain aspects of life, like art, storytelling, and craftsmanship, have endured through every civilization. There’s an invisible thread that connects us across time: the human desire to create, to tell stories, to express ourselves, and to leave something meaningful behind. No matter how much technology advances, that core need remains unchanged.
3. De-mystifying the Idea
Now, let’s address the myth head-on: Is technology really replacing photographers?
The answer is no. Technology, from smartphones to AI, is a tool. It can make certain processes more efficient or accessible, but it doesn’t replace the heart of the craft. If the value of an image is reduced to something that a 5-year-old or an 80-year-old can create with the tap of a button, then that image doesn’t hold the same weight as one crafted by a professional with years of experience and vision behind it.
Photography, like all art, transcends the tools used to create it. Sure, technology has changed how we take and share images, but it hasn’t changed why we take them. The drive to capture a moment, tell a story, or evoke emotion—that’s something technology can’t replicate. It’s why clients come to professionals—not for convenience, but for intention, mastery, and a vision that goes beyond the mechanics of taking a picture.
4. The Human Element Never Fades
Photography, at its core, is about transforming what’s in front of the lens into something more. It’s not just about capturing a scene—it’s about interpreting it, finding meaning in it, and presenting it in a way that resonates with others. That’s where the human element comes in.
Conclusion: The Future of Photography is Still Unwritten
At the end of the day, the conversation about technology and photography is less about replacement and more about evolution. As tools change, so do the ways we create and interact with images. What remains to be seen is how these tools will continue to shape our visual culture—and how we, as both creators and viewers, will respond.
While new technology constantly redefines the boundaries of photography, some things remain timeless. The fact that film photography, a medium over a century old, still captivates photographers and audiences alike says something about the enduring qualities of craft and physicality in a digital world. Maybe it’s not about choosing between the old and the new, but about recognizing the value each brings—and understanding that the future of photography can honor its past while embracing its future.
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