The growing adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered image generation is taking a toll on the livelihoods of photographers and photo studio operators in Kaduna, with many lamenting a sharp decline in patronage.
A News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) check across major business districts in Kaduna metropolis revealed that many residents now prefer AI-generated portraits to conventional studio photography because they are cheaper, faster and offer limitless creative options.
Several photo studio operators interviewed by NAN said the trend had significantly reduced the number of customers visiting their studios for passport photographs, birthday portraits, family photographs and social media pictures.
Mr Ibrahim Musa, a photographer who has operated a studio in Kaduna for over 15 years, said business had dropped by more than half within the last one year.
”Many young people simply upload a selfie to an AI application and receive professional-looking portraits within minutes without stepping into a studio.
”Before now, weekends were always busy because of birthday shoots and social media pictures. Today, some weekends pass without a single customer,” he said.
Another operator, Mrs Esther Daniel, described AI as both an opportunity and a threat.
”We cannot deny that technology is changing the industry. Unfortunately, many small photo studios cannot afford premium AI software or advanced digital equipment needed to compete.
”Our income has reduced because customers now compare our prices with AI applications that charge only a fraction of what professional photography costs,” she said.
Mr Samuel Yusuf, who operates a photo editing and printing shop in Kaduna North, said demand for photo printing had also declined as many people now keep AI-generated pictures only on their phones.
According to him, fewer customers now request framed portraits or printed albums, thereby affecting additional sources of income for studio operators.
Some residents, however, defended their preference for AI-generated portraits.
Miss Deborah James, a university student, said AI applications enabled users to create high-quality images in different outfits and locations at minimal cost.
”With one selfie, I can create several professional portraits without paying for makeup, studio sessions or expensive clothing,” she said.
Similarly, Mr Chinedu Okafor said AI-generated headshots had become popular among job seekers and entrepreneurs because they were affordable and could be produced within minutes.
However, some professional photographers argued that AI could not completely replace real-life photography.
Mr Emmanuel Audu, a wedding photographer, noted that while AI could generate attractive images, it could not capture genuine moments, emotions and events.
”Artificial Intelligence cannot photograph a wedding ceremony, graduation or family celebration as it happens.
”What professionals need is to embrace AI as a tool for editing, customer management and improving productivity rather than seeing it only as a competitor,” he said.
Industry analysts also believe that the future belongs to photographers who integrate AI into their workflow instead of resisting the technology, arguing that the profession is evolving rather than disappearing.(NAN)
