‘Why Pay a Photographer?’: Generation Z Go Wild for AI-Generated Headshots
Generation Z are using artificially intelligent (AI) photo app Remini to transform their selfies into professional headshots and are questioning why they would ever pay for a photographer instead.
The generative AI photo enhancer Remini has gone viral on TikTok, with thousands of users using the technology to transform their smartphone pictures into flattering corporate headshots.
@gracesplace #CapCut #ai #remini #fypシ ♬ 3:15 (Slowed Down + Reverb) – Russ
In a TikTok video, that has amassed over 42.2 million views in the last five days, content creator @Gracesplace showed how she used Remini to turn a selfie in her car into a series of professional headshots for her Linkedin profile.
Since then, the AI photo app has shot up in popularity. The Remini app has even dethroned Meta’s Threads and soared to the number one spot in the U.S. on Apple’s App Store charts.
The #Remini hashtag currently has over 1.4 billion views on TikTok with content creators asking why they should “pay for headshots when AI does them for free?”
Remini launched in 2019 with software to enhance photo clarity, such as making blurry images clearer. However, in 2022, it added generative AI to its app. While Remini is free to download, it requires a subscription to gain access to all of its features.
@gracesplace Replying to @Aidan #remini #fypシ #ai ♬ original sound – Grace
Remini works a lot like the photo editing app of 2022 Lensa AI. In a follow-up TikTok video, @Gracesplace shows how to use Remini to produce a corporate headshot.
Users start by uploading eight to 12 photos of themselves and selecting their gender. Then, they select a “model image” that mimics the style and composition they want — with categories ranging from “casual” and “trendy” to “travel” and “curriculum.”
The curriculum category features models in business attire and generates professional headshots. After that, there is a swiping function which allows Remini users to narrow down their favorite images.
‘PSA to Photographers: Y’All Better Lower Your Prices’
While many TikTokers were impressed by the AI-generated headshots, many users were troubled that apps like Remini could supplant real photographers.
@mollie.danielle AI really said, “were gonna make you look spanish”… and im here for it #capcut #AI #foryou ♬ 3:15 (Slowed Down + Reverb) – Russ
“PSA to photographers: y’all better lower your prices,” one viewer gloats.
Some TikTok users agreed with their sentiment, commenting: “For real, they [photographers] charge so much just for five pictures.”
While another viewer argues: “AI can’t replicate the true art of a talented photographer. I don’t know anyone who would rather have AI-generated wedding photos.”
@taylee.wells this is crazy😭 #CapCut #ai #aiheadshot #trending #foryoupage #xyzbca #trend ♬ 3:15 (Slowed Down + Reverb) – Russ
Furthermore, while the headshots were certainly impressive, some of the images had defects synonymous with AI technology such as hands with too many or too few fingers.
@ha.lei.gh When you cant use your AI headshots becaude it took of 80 pounds and everyone would notice… 😅🙃 #remini #ai #aifail #aifails #aiheadshot #aiheadshots #funny #fail ♬ 3:15 (Slowed Down + Reverb) – Russ
Meanwhile, according to Insider, other TikTokers claimed that Remini appeared to have substantially changed their weight to make their shot more flattering — with one user dubbing the AI as “fatphobic.”
Image credits: Header photo via TikTok/@gracesplace Depositphotos.
