How Photography and AI Altered My View of Human Beauty

My mother always taught me that a person's character is more important than their appearance, a lesson I held dear, especially as a child who didn't fit conventional standards of beauty. This belief was a cornerstone of my identity until my career as a photographer began to challenge it.

A Photographer's Inner Conflict

I don't believe that conventionally unattractive people are any less valuable than their beautiful counterparts. In fact, those who haven't coasted on 'pretty privilege' often develop deeper, more interesting personalities. However, I can't deny a professional reality: as a photographer, my work is easier and often more enjoyable with photogenic clients. When I'm faced with a subject who is not traditionally attractive, I feel a slight sense of dismay.

The Unspoken Preference for Photogenic Subjects

It's a simple fact that taking photos of attractive people is less complicated, for several reasons. Firstly, those who are used to being complimented on their looks tend to be more relaxed and confident during a photo shoot. They don't spend time worrying about their appearance, constantly checking mirrors, or seeking reassurance, which saves a significant amount of time.

Secondly, they often have an innate understanding of how to pose. Whether it's from practice taking selfies or simple self-assurance, they appear more natural and less awkward in front of the camera.

Finally, the post-production process is much smoother. It's quicker to retouch and more pleasant to edit images of someone with symmetrical features and clear skin. Nature can be biased, and as a photographer, spending hours looking at an aesthetically pleasing face is simply more enjoyable.

However, being attractive is no guarantee of being an easy client. I once worked with a good-looking individual who sent me through five rounds of vague and frustrating edit requests, like "Make me look natural but also glam" and "Adjust my eyelids." When I finally refused further changes, they apologized, saying they thought endless edits were included in the price, leaving me to wonder how one can put a price on 'endless frustration'.

The AI Effect How My Brain Mentally Retouches People

Beyond the practicalities of a photo shoot, I've noticed a more troubling change in my own mind, amplified by photography and AI editing apps. Now, when I look at anyone, I can't help but mentally assess how I would retouch them. I find myself thinking, 'I'd use the healing brush on that mole,' or 'I could easily whiten those teeth.'

This critical eye is not just reserved for others; I apply it to myself, fixating on acne scars, forehead wrinkles, and other perceived imperfections. I worry that my profession has conditioned me to focus excessively on people's surface-level beauty, or lack thereof. My unique selling proposition is making people look better in portraits, which requires identifying and 'fixing' what's considered wrong with their appearance.

Remembering What Truly Matters

In the face of this internal shift, I have to make a conscious effort to remember my mother's words: "It's not what you look like, it's what you are." It's a constant reminder to look beyond the surface and value the person within, a principle that my professional life seems determined to make me forget.

Further Resources

• Explore our guide to the best lens for portrait photography.
• Find the best camera for headshots.
• Read our essential headshot photography tips.