Statement on Artificial Intelligence



I believe that human connection, human talent, and human resilience are more important now than ever. The increasing prevalence of Artificial Intelligence in photography, and in general, has frustrated and disappointed me. On the other side of this, the rejection of AI and embrace of analog photography technologies in response has been encouraging.

I believe photography is a deeply human art form. It is an outlet for every photographer's personal expression, worldview, and creativity. And creativity cannot be replaced.

Additionally, the prevalence of  "convincingly" real AI videos and photos in the last year is worrying, and endangers the integrity of some industries and institutions. These developments, in my view, are driven largely by monetary interests, and are something any artist should condemn. It is incumbent upon the government of the United States and other countries to enact laws which protect all people from the harms of use and misuse of these technologies. It is also incumbent on the United States to not restrict the states' ability to regulate AI.

Even more pressing, the rapid development of AI has reduced the quality of life for some Americans, particularly those living near large data centers. Any technological development should not come at the cost of the wellbeing of the citizens, and my stance is that the rapid development of these technologies are a hurried, money-guided errand, irrespective of the people it hurts. Especially in a time when the American West plunges deeper into a tough water situation.

I am committed to hard work and genuine human connection in my photography. I am committed to the process, ensuring the finished product is my work, my signature. And I am committed to working hard for you, the client! In accordance with these statements, I do not and will not purposely use any AI software or program to create, generate, or write anything pertaining to my photography or daily life.

-Gunnison