Introduction

With the recent launch of ChatGPT’s new AI image generation capabilities, many professionals and enthusiasts wonder if it could serve as a viable alternative to Adobe Photoshop. The integration of AI into creative tools has sparked conversations regarding its implications for artists and the creative process. This blog post explores various tests conducted with ChatGPT’s new image editing features, highlighting its strengths and limitations compared to the long-established Photoshop.

The Evolution of Image Editing

Photoshop, created in 1987, has been the go-to software for photo editing among professionals for decades. With Adobe’s recent announcement of incorporating AI tools, including generative fill, the longevity and adaptability of Photoshop are evident. Meanwhile, ChatGPT has emerged with new capabilities to edit images swiftly and creatively. But how well does it compete against the industry standard?

First Test: Editing Photos with ChatGPT

The journey began by testing ChatGPT’s ability to insert additional elements into an image. For instance, using a photo of a cow, I prompted ChatGPT to add another cow into the field of view. Surprisingly, it delivered an edit where the two cows appeared naturally side by side, retaining the original details of the photo. This initial test was promising, showcasing ChatGPT’s strength in basic image manipulation.

Transforming Personal Portraits

Curious about its capabilities for more personal images, I uploaded a headshot and asked ChatGPT to dress me in a formal suit against a bookcase background. While the suit and environment looked great, the likeness was somewhat off. Although I appreciated the creative approach, it highlighted a key limitation of AI: maintaining accurate likeness in portraits. For tasks requiring a genuine resemblance, such as professional bios, Photoshop still reigns supreme.

Enhancing Scenic Photography

Travel photography often needs just a little enhancement to shine on social media. I selected an unedited scenic photo and requested ChatGPT to enhance it as if for a travel magazine. The result was impressive! ChatGPT utilized its generative capabilities to enhance colors and properly crop the image, capturing the essence and appeal of travel photography. This aspect underscored ChatGPT’s potential to save time and yield satisfying results for casual edits.

Generative Fill: Extending Images

Next, I explored ChatGPT’s ability to perform a task similar to Photoshop’s generative fill feature. I submitted a photo taken of a caravan and requested the addition of a campfire on the side. The AI produced a visually coherent image but altered some aspects of the caravan, leading to a new yet less authentic depiction. Those seeking to keep their images close to the original with high fidelity may still prefer the tools available in Photoshop.

Creating Collages with AI

To round off my tests, I asked ChatGPT to blend two images from Tokyo into a cohesive collage featuring the iconic Tokyo Sky Tree and Senso-ji Temple. The results were impressive, as ChatGPT accurately recognized and blended the two images, though it also reinvented certain perspectives to fit its creative vision. This process illustrated how AI can effectively facilitate creative projects, but it raises questions about the authenticity of the blended works.

Final Thoughts: Is ChatGPT a Viable Photoshop Alternative?

ChatGPT’s performance reveals that while it excels in creating quick edits and enhancements, it has significant limitations compared to Photoshop—especially regarding likeness preservation and image authenticity. For casual users and quick edits, ChatGPT presents a time-saving alternative, providing a solid first attempt at image generation. However, professional photographers and artists may find that traditional editing software remains essential for high-stakes projects. As AI continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how tools like ChatGPT adapt and potentially bridge the gaps in the creative process.

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