In a world where technology is moving faster than ever, it’s hard to ignore how much artificial intelligence (AI) has started to shape the creative industry—including photography. With AI tools now capable of generating entire images, retouching skin flawlessly, and even replacing skies with a click, a big question has been on my mind lately: What does this mean for real, authentic photography?
As a wedding and portrait photographer based in Saratoga, NY, I’ve seen firsthand how precious real moments are. Whether it's the tear on a groom’s cheek as his bride walks down the aisle or the way a little girl laughs while playing with her daddy, these are memories that can’t be fabricated. They’re spontaneous, messy, beautiful—and real.
The Rise of AI in Photography
AI isn’t necessarily a bad thing. In fact, I use it in small, subtle ways. Some editing programs now have smart tools that help with culling thousands of images (yes, I really take that many!) or even give a gentle assist in fixing lighting or smoothing skin. These features save time and can help me deliver your gallery faster. But here’s the thing: they’re just tools. They don’t replace me—the person behind the camera who knows when to capture the sparkle in your eye or the little glance that says everything.
What’s becoming more common, though, are AI-generated images that look like photos... but aren’t. You’ve probably seen them floating around on social media—flawless wedding photos in places that don’t exist, with people who aren’t real. Sometimes it’s obvious, sometimes it’s not. And for photographers like me, who are all about capturing genuine connections, it’s a little unsettling.
Why Real Still Matters
Here’s what I believe: no matter how advanced technology gets, there’s no substitute for real.
You can’t fake the emotion when you exchange vows. You can’t recreate the joy of a just-engaged couple dancing in the golden hour light. You can’t generate the sweet, in-between moments—like when your mom tears up during a quiet moment before the ceremony, or when your dad gives you that look that says he’s proud beyond words.
These aren’t just photos—they’re memories. And that’s what I want to give you: a story that’s 100% yours, unfiltered and beautifully imperfect in the best way.
Keeping It Real in My Work
When you book a session with me—whether it’s your wedding day, engagement shoot, or family photos—you’re not just getting pretty pictures. You’re getting a real experience. I guide you, I joke with you, I make sure you feel like you. And when I edit, I’m focused on preserving your natural beauty, not airbrushing you into someone you don’t recognize.
My goal is for you to look back at your photos and feel something. Not because they were perfectly staged or digitally enhanced, but because they were real moments frozen in time.
What This Means for You
If you're planning your wedding, prepping for a family session, or thinking about booking a photo session, here’s my advice: choose a photographer who values authenticity. Ask them how they edit. Ask them how they capture moments. Look through their work and see if it feels like something you can connect with.
AI might be a trend, but real memories never go out of style.
Let’s Make Some Real Magic
If you’re looking for someone who’ll celebrate your story exactly as it unfolds, I’d love to be that person for you. Whether you're getting married in Saratoga or beyond, or want to capture the joy of a new season in life, I’m here for it—all of it.
Let’s keep photography real. Let’s make something meaningful.
