top of page
  • Writer's pictureQigen Lin

Can AI Replace Human Models? The Debate Continues

Artificial intelligence technology has been taking the world by storm, with its ability to mimic human behavior and thought processes. The modelling industry is no exception to this trend, with brands and companies starting to incorporate AI-generated models into their advertising campaigns. However, this decision has sparked a debate on whether AI can replace human models altogether.


We will explore both sides of the argument and dive deeper into the pros and cons of using AI in the modelling industry. We will also take a closer look at the impact of AI on job opportunities and digital diversity in advertising. Is it possible to achieve inclusivity with AI-generated models? And how does society benefit from these advancements? Join us as we discuss the future of AI in the modelling industry and the need for public policy to regulate its use.


"Amidst the ongoing debate, AI vs. human models, let's not forget that fashion thrives on the raw emotions, authentic connections, and unmistakable charm that only humans can bring to the runway. While AI may dazzle with its precision, it's the human touch that truly sets the fashion world ablaze."

Sustainability


 

TRENDING


As technology continues to advance, the use of AI in modeling is growing rapidly. However, even with all its potential capabilities, artificial intelligence (AI) will not be able to fully replace human models anytime soon. Although AI can provide accurate predictions, it lacks the intuition and creativity of real people which are essential attributes for fashion brands that strive for inclusion goals.


The need for a collaborative approach between AI-generated models and live models like Naomi Campbell and Levi Strauss & co lead when creating content and supplementing campaigns becomes more important than ever before so that we can create diverse campaigns that reflect our audiences' wide range of body types, skin tones and background while making sure to achieve sustainability and inclusion goals as a part of our technology strategy.


An AI photo studio and modeling agency, offers virtual models for as little as $29 per month — a price point that no human model can compete with – provide us with a glimpse into what the future might hold for fashion industry. Shudu gram, one such CGI model created by an AI company has already “walked” the runway on behalf of large fashion brands like Calvin Klein and Tommy Hilfiger.

Although this new partnership allows fashion brands to showcase their clothing on digital models or avatars instead of using live models which has its own perks considering COVID-19 pandemic situation worldwide like no travel restrictions or safety measures needed during photoshoots but deep down there is always a backlash whether it's about not using real people as models or not highlighting bipoc, real action is needed to provide an inclusive shopping experience.


Models and agencies speak out


As the use of AI in modeling grows rapidly, many wonder if it could replace human models altogether. However, while technology continues to advance, it still lacks the intuition and creativity of human models. Instead of being seen as a substitute for real people on runways or photoshoots, experts suggest using AI-generated images as a supplement to live models. Through collaboration between the two, results could be more accurate and efficient than before.


Agencies recognize that technology has potential capabilities to improve efficiency in the fashion industry but emphasize that it cannot replicate a real action or emotion of a fashion model. As Levi Strauss & Co's Global Head of Technology Strategy stated last year, "We want to create an inclusive shopping experience for all body types."


Inclusion goals continue to drive fashion brands towards using diverse models from different backgrounds and skin tones - even avatars like Shudu Gram for Calvin Klein's new partnership with The Fabricant digital fashion studio.

The Debate Continues


The fashion industry is witnessing a rapid growth in AI-generated models. However, this does not mean that they will necessarily replace human models anytime soon. The advantages of AI lie in its speed, efficiency, and consistency when predicting consumer behavior.


At the same time, human models have the ability to bring creativity and emotion to their work that is difficult for machines to replicate. Inclusivity goals are also a crucial factor in this debate as digital diversity through CGI models like Shudu Gram or virtual models from platforms like Deep Agency can provide a more inclusive shopping experience.


The partnership between Calvin Klein and Shudu Gram last year signaled potential capabilities for technology strategy in using CGI models as spokespersons for fashion brands. However, there has been backlash as well due to ethical concerns over data privacy and bias.


Therefore, rather than replacing human models completely with AI ones or CGI avatars, it is necessary to supplement them with digital diversity by having real people who represent a wide range of body types and skin tones on runways or in photoshoots.

AI versus Human Models: An Overview


As technology advances, there is an ongoing debate about whether AI-generated models can replace human ones. While AI has its potential capabilities in terms of speed, efficiency, and consistency in modeling, it cannot completely replace the creativity and empathy of real people.


For instance, using Levi Strauss & Co's digital fashion studio, Deep Agency created diverse CGI models like Shudu gram to cater to inclusion goals of fashion brands like Calvin Klein and Tommy Hilfiger.


However, this also caused backlash among BIPOC communities who questioned the use of virtual spokespersons instead of real action towards diversity of our clothing models.


Hence, it is essential to find ways to combine the strengths of both AI and live models for a sustainable way forward while not compromising consumer experience during e-commerce or shopping experience with wide-ranging body types or skin tones.

Pros and cons of using AI


As industries continue to explore the potential capabilities of using artificial intelligence (AI) for modeling purposes with its speed and accuracy in analyzing vast amounts of data quickly and efficiently. Fashion brands such as Levi Strauss & Co have utilized CGI models like Shudu Gram and diverse models like "real people" images to supplement their e-commerce offerings for a more inclusive shopping experience.


While there are advantages to utilizing AI-generated images such as cost savings and identifying patterns or trends that humans may miss - the lack of creativity or emotional intelligence often found within fashion's makeup artists or spokespersons can lead to backlash from consumers on social media platforms like Instagram.


Furthermore, there are ethical concerns surrounding inclusion goals within the fashion industry relating to skin tone representation or body type diversity which require a sustainable way forward using both AI-generated models as well as traditional live photo shoots with real action talent.

The impact of AI on job market


The impact of AI on the job market is a pressing concern among economists, policymakers, and industry leaders. As automation replaces human labor across various industries, including modeling and creative fields, there is growing fear of job displacement.


Despite its potential capabilities to create new job opportunities in areas like data analysis and programming, concerns remain about its effects on employment in general.


Fashion brands like Levi Strauss & Co are now using inclusive digital models like Shudu Gram and diverse CGI models to supplement their use of live models in last year’s runway shows. This not only creates an inclusive shopping experience but also showcases inclusivity goals for fashion brands through technology strategy.


Is digital diversity achievable with AI?


While AI has the potential to create diverse models, there are concerns about replicating biases in the data used to train algorithms. Plus, AI can generate new types of models not possible with human modeling. However, it's important to balance AI and human models for diversity and representation in advertising campaigns.

Inclusivity concerns with AI-generated models


AI-generated models have been gaining popularity in the fashion industry due to their potential capabilities. When it comes to inclusivity concerns, AI-generated models fall short as they may not be able to represent a diverse range of body types and skin tones as real people do.


Fashion brands like Levi Strauss & Co aim for inclusive shopping experiences by supplementing live photoshoots with CGI models like Shudu Gram and diverse real people. While AI can be used as a substitute for live models in certain situations, its use should be balanced with diverse human modeling to achieve inclusion goals.


Are AI models good for our society?


The use of AI models has the potential to transform various sectors, but concerns exist about its impact on employment and societal norms. While some argue that AI models can be more inclusive, critics worry that they reinforce unrealistic beauty standards and objectify marginalized groups.


The debate over AI models is ongoing, and ethical considerations will continue to emerge with technological advancements.

The need for public policy on AI


As technology continues to evolve rapidly in today's world, the need for public policy regarding artificial intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly essential. Public policies addressing these issues are necessary to provide a framework for regulating the development and use of AI in various industries.


The goal of such policies should be to strike a balance between the positive outcomes of using AI tech like increased efficiency and cost savings while simultaneously minimizing potential negative consequences like job displacement or privacy concerns.


To achieve this goal effectively, policymakers must gather input from multiple stakeholders such as industry experts or affected individuals to ensure that ethical considerations are taken into account. Developing public policies will help create sustainable ways to address these complex issues proactively.


Will AI-generated Models Replace Human Models In Ad Campaigns?


While AI-generated models are already being used in ads due to cost-effectiveness and customizability, it's uncertain if they'll fully replace human models. Human models bring emotional appeal and connection to ads. The decision depends on the brand's objectives and their target audience's preferences.

The Future of AI in the modelling industry


The fashion industry is witnessing a revolution with AI-generated images supplementing real people as clothing models. Besides, there seems to be a consensus that a blend of both virtual and live models is likely to define the future landscape of the industry.


While technology strategy can use AI for greater efficiency in identifying potential models or predicting their success, having diverse models representing different body types and skin tones can help achieve inclusion goals.


Also, backlash against digital avatars like Shudu Gram highlights inclusivity concerns. This necessitates avoiding using only CGI (computer-generated imagery) or relying on one spokesperson like Bipoc supermodel Naomi Campbell to generate real action towards diversity.



Conclusion:


While AI-generated models may be a cost-effective solution for brands, it is essential to consider the impact on society and the modeling industry as a whole. The debate around AI versus human models continues. While AI models offer certain benefits such as speed and cost-effectiveness, there are also concerns about inclusivity and diversity.


As we move towards a future where AI is becoming increasingly prevalent in the modeling industry, it is important to have public policies in place that ensure ethical use of this technology.

 

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can AI truly replace human models in the fashion industry?

While AI has made remarkable advancements, it cannot fully replace human models. The allure of human expression, emotions, and individuality remains a vital aspect of the fashion industry that AI struggles to replicate.

What unique qualities do human models bring to the runway that AI cannot?

Can AI simulate the creativity and artistry showcased by human models?

How does the human element in fashion contribute to its appeal and relevance?


Comments


bottom of page