Filters and Photoshop move over, artificial intelligence (AI) is the new trend for creating online profile pictures.
During the summer, a TikTok video gained widespread attention. Its caption read, “using this trend to get a new LinkedIn headshot.”
In this brief yet captivating clip, a young woman showcased her real-life appearance alongside professionally crafted headshot photos, all thanks to an AI-powered app called Remini. The video amassed an impressive 52.3 million views, and similar content from other TikTok creators garnered significant attention.
Remini, along with competitors like Try It On AI and AI Suit Up, utilizes advanced AI software to generate polished profile photos, designed to emulate the work of a seasoned photographer.
To harness Remini’s magic, users are prompted to upload eight to 10 selfies, preferably captured from various angles and under favourable lighting conditions. The AI then meticulously studies these images to understand the user’s unique features.
In just a matter of minutes, Remini begins crafting artificial photos that depict users in a sophisticated and even glamorous light. Different hairstyles, various outfits, and impeccable lighting create a range of professional-looking images. The app goes the extra mile by enhancing skin quality, refining makeup, providing diverse backdrops, and, interestingly, some users even discover a slimming effect.
With millions of views and a surge in popularity, these AI-powered tools are not just altering photos but reshaping the way individuals present themselves in the professional realm.
Although the outcomes can also be considered from an objective standpoint – where it is noted that they appear real, other individuals see them as unrealistic.
Unlike past Internet image editing trends like dramatically altering your hair or eye color and all that was involved in having some fun on social media, this one is clearly centered around Linked In and similar profession-oriented web sites.
Some people will like the affordable AI services.
Divya Shishodia, 24, an Australian digital marketer says that albeit these are obviously computer-generated, “some people may lack money to go for real headshots shot by professionals”.
While the outcome is partially subjective – with some commenting on being real, and others that the images appear to be unnatural.
However, unlike with previous online image manipulations, whose intention was about having fun on social media, changing your age in photos for jobs is mostly done using LinkedIn and other employment platforms.
Some find the appeal in affordability of the AI services.
According to Divya Shishodia, 24, digital marketer, Australia, while AI headshots “are obviously generated, some people might not have the budget to go and get a professional headshot taken”.
While a visit to a professional photographer may set you back more than £100, Remini and its counterparts typically offer free trials lasting a few days.
“I’m not claiming they’re the most lifelike, but considering the time and effort required, the output is worthwhile,” remarks Ms. Shishodia. She goes on to explain that attempting to capture a decent profile photo oneself can be quite challenging.
“You need to consider angles, lighting, trying to avoid shadows… things only actual photographers can handle.”
Michelle Genobisa, a 26-year-old from Aalborg, Denmark, appreciates the affordability or even lack of cost associated with AI-generated profile photos.
“I often experiment with my looks, like changing my hair color… so it was an easy way to amass some pictures with the polished effect of a professional photoshoot,” she shares. “To have such a photo taken professionally can be prohibitively expensive.”
On the flip side, not everyone is enamored with the technology, as Molly McCrann, a 25-year-old actor from Australia, voices her skepticism. “I just think it looks so artificial; you can tell it’s heavily edited or has that unmistakable AI touch,” she remarks.
Posted picture of mine made look so thin, unlike my natural built.
Additionally, Ms McCrann states that she believes that it is probably more appropriate to demonstrate the way one really looks to potential employers.
Nevertheless, she is willing to embrace both sides of the matter. Someone posted something I fully agree on – “this company makes a decision based on appearance” and if so, then I shall put some AI headshots in place so as to get the interview.
However, what about the extent in which this can affect our self-image. According to consumer psychologist Dr Paul Marsden, there are two sides of the story.
When I had posted mine it took very slim away and i do not have a shape as depicted.
Ms. McCrann notes that she believes it would be a good idea to reflect on prospective employer’s true pictures of how she looks like.
Nevertheless, she can equally take the opposite perspective. Someone did write a comment I concur with, “if this company will base off looks I’ll like to get into the room, and if this will take me to the room, I will utilize AI headshots to get a job interview.”
However, what concerns regarding our self-image will the better quality AI portraits cause? According to consumer psychologist Dr Paul Marsden, there are two sides to this question.
Expressing his perspective, he shares with the BBC, “On one hand, using AI allows us to present our best selves, projecting the image we desire to the world. This, in turn, may inspire us to embody those qualities in our real lives.”
He delves into the psychology of first impressions, emphasizing how quick judgments are made based on initial impressions. Through AI, individuals can position themselves favorably for potential opportunities. However, he acknowledges the flip side, noting that reliance on AI-generated images might impact self-worth, fostering a belief of inadequacy compared to the seemingly flawless AI representation, leading to diminished confidence.
The question arises: Do recruiters share these concerns? Tristan Barthel, representing London-based Tate Recruitment, has observed a significant uptick in people using AI to enhance their photos. Yet, he asserts that, in his role, it doesn’t alter how he evaluates applications. “I can discern if a picture has been AI-generated, but it wouldn’t sway my decision; for me, qualifications are the determining factor.”
Leave a Reply