2027 SPE Annual Conference: Community in Contrast
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print this pageThe Future of Photography: Critical Perspectives on AI
Rob Dickes, Teri Campbell, Christopher Meerdo, Poppy Williams
Saturday, October 17 - 9:00AM to 10:30AM
Hopkins 250
As generative artificial intelligence reshapes the visual landscape, photography stands at a pivotal historical crossroads. Rather than approaching AI through technological fatalism or uncritical enthusiasm, this panel brings together diverse voices—including commercial practitioners, fine artists, educators, and critical theorists—to examine how computational image-making is transforming what it means to create, teach, and value photographic work.
Panelists will critically examine the shifting paradigms of authorship, ethics, education, labor, and visual culture, considering both the opportunities and challenges presented by rapidly evolving AI technologies. How does AI alter our understanding of the photographic image? What happens to notions of authorship and artistic intent when images can be generated rather than captured? How should photography educators respond to these technologies, and what implications do they hold for emerging photographers entering an increasingly automated industry?
By connecting practical changes within the photographic industry to institutional pedagogy and broader cultural critique, The Future of Photography offers attendees multiple perspectives for understanding—and actively shaping—the future of the medium.
The panel will conclude with an open discussion and audience Q&A, inviting attendees with a range of perspectives and experiences to engage directly with the panelists in a lively conversation about the evolving role of photography in an age of artificial
intelligence.
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