The article discusses the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance photos taken during live news events, using a photo of Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, as an example. The author initially struggled with taking in-focus photos but found that an AI photo-sharpening tool in Canva greatly improved the quality of the image. However, using AI to enhance photos raises questions about transparency and ethics in journalism. The news team at GeekWire has established principles for disclosing the use of AI-generated images in articles, but the situation of AI-enhanced real photos poses a gray area in terms of disclosure and editing practices.
The article delves into the internal discussions held by the GeekWire news team regarding the use of AI to enhance news photos. While transparency is essential, there is concern about readers misunderstanding the role of AI in the editing process. Some team members argued that disclosing every aspect of photo editing, including the use of autofocus and intelligent auto, could lead to unnecessary disclosures and create a slippery slope. AI-enhanced editing tools are considered a significant advancement in technology but also raise ethical questions about how far the use of AI should be disclosed in journalism.
Professional journalism organizations offer ethics policies that apply to photo editing, providing guidance on the acceptable editing practices. These policies typically require maintaining the integrity of photographic content and context while avoiding substantial alterations that may mislead viewers. The article compares guidelines from organizations like the National Press Photographers Association and The Associated Press, highlighting the nuanced approach to photo editing allowed under these standards. In this context, using AI editing tools may be considered permissible under certain guidelines but not under more stringent standards like those of The Associated Press.
The author reflects on the role of professional news photographers and photojournalists in capturing authentic images without AI assistance. As a news reporter navigating the use of AI in photo editing, the author grapples with the ethical implications of AI-enhanced photos. The decision to disclose the use of AI in photo editing hinges on striking a balance between transparency and avoiding misunderstandings about the role of AI in enhancing real photos. The internal discussions at GeekWire underscore the complexities and ethical considerations that arise with the use of AI technology in journalism and photo editing practices.
The author ultimately decides to disclose in the caption that the photo of Altman was “sharpened by AI” to maintain transparency without implying that the entire image was generated by artificial intelligence. This disclosure helps clarify the role of AI in the editing process while avoiding confusion among readers. The author acknowledges the vast uncharted territory that journalists will navigate with the advancement of AI technology in photo editing. While appreciating the capabilities of AI tools, the author expresses a preference for capturing high-quality images without the need for AI enhancements, highlighting the ongoing ethical debate surrounding the use of AI in journalism.
