6 Reasons to Choose Bespoke Illustrations over AI Images
In a recent project, I came across a clients AI generated images for a research presentation. I found it really interesting that they had opted for both AI and a human artist on this project. It gave me an opportunity to compare side by side what the difference is in using an illustrator or an AI generator.
Why AI?
AI generation is quick, free/cheap and easily available.
Now, is this all completely true? I don't think so.
There are real environmental costs to AI, as well as socio-political costs of devaluation and depreciation of human skill and labour.
Nonetheless, in a pinch, an AI image now plays the role of a stock photo or clip art, except now more tailored to the users specific needs.
What can an Illustrator do that AI can't?
I will compare the following images, and explain my thoughts as to what an illustrator can give you that AI can't.
For context: I am comparing images for a study to improve representation in maternity research.
Real diversity.
This image may look diverse at a glance, but it lacks the social awareness of a human being. Or, it's a lazy attempt at representation. Notice that the faces in all of the AI generated people are the same? Diversity is more than skin tone. Diversity is also body size, clothing choices, tools like glasses, hearing aids and more.
An Illustrator is an Expert
The AI illustrations probably did meet the expectations and needs for the client. The thing is that most users of AI image generators are not artists and cannot see what they could be missing. Illustrators will solve problems you didn't know you had! And tailor the artwork to your audience and brand - packing a punch and giving your audience something memorable. AI is everywhere, AI is generic - give them something to remember instead!
Text and Image as One
The AI images treat text and image as two very separate concepts. However, my approach integrates the two together in a way that is engaging and packs in detail without overwhelming readers. I utilise visual metaphors in my live illustration to communicate ideas without a great need for text. The images and text communicate different things that, when read as a whole, bring a greater meaning in a concise way.
The Audience Deserves the Real Deal
Would you choose an AI generated book over a human written one? Would you like to read an email written by your colleague or a computer? Call me old fashioned, but I think there is a lack of respect for audiences when businesses use AI. Audiences are real people who deserve good communication, which illustrators have put thought and care into. One of my biggest motivators for creating good quality illustrations is that the topics I illustrate and the people who view them deserve good quality, engaging artwork.
Kindness and Empathy
The icons accompanying the images are very corporate and bland, for such a sensitive topic. 'I must keep me and my baby safe' is a really emotional concept, handled in a very sterile way. Part of the purpose of this research is to gain greater understanding of pregnant patients and their thoughts and feelings - so how can we expect a program to visualise this sensitive concept?
Working with a person means they will imbue their empathy, consideration and kindness into the artwork. This may sound fluffy, but a lot of my work tackles difficult topics, and visuals are a really great way to do so. But AI visuals can miss the point - that audiences and project participants are going through something really tough and human made illustrations can recognise that. Feeling seen, feeling care within the project as a whole will be beneficial to it's success.
Ethical and Legal Clarity
When you work with an illustrator, your rights and image usage are clearly outlined in a written agreement. This is crucial to avoiding potential disputes or 'theft' of artwork you use for your business.
In conclusion?
AI can do a lot of scarily impressive things - but deliver engaging, informative, kind and diverse illustrations tailored to your business? Not just yet
Working with real artists is now a sign of company value, longevity and success. And I, like so many illustrators, can also bring a real passion to the work we do. I am not an image making machine, I will problem solve, iterate and experiment and go the extra step to deliver quality illustrations.
All that being said! If you'd like to work with me, a real and quite nice human illustrator, do get in touch
And please share with other illustrators or people who work with images
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