AI-generated images detection: In an era where AI proliferates faster than gossip at a family barbecue, distinguishing genuine images from their digital doppelgangers has become more challenging than ever. From combating Photoshop to questioning the authenticity of the faces we encounter, it’s a pixelated wilderness out there. But fear not, as I’m here to be your guide through this complex terrain, unveiling the most common signs that an image is AI-generated.
Decoding Metadata: A Digital Fingerprint
Before casting doubt on every image, let’s delve into metadata – the information that embraces a picture, revealing details about its origin and the human touch behind it. However, the absence of metadata doesn’t conclusively prove an image’s AI origin, as it can be intentionally removed before uploading.
Still, having intact metadata significantly boosts the likelihood of an image being authentic. So, pay attention to these details the next time you download an image. Can an AI-generated image convincingly carry details like “camera model” or “exposure time”? It’s highly doubtful.
Checking Metadata on Different Platforms
Mac:
- Download the image.
- Right-click the image.
- Select Get Info.
Windows:
- Download the image.
- Right-click the image.
- Select Properties.
- Navigate to the Details tab.
Red Flags: Signs of AI Artistry
Perfect Symmetry
AI takes symmetry to unprecedented heights. Recognize it by an unnaturally balanced appearance where folding an image in half would create a perfect mirror effect. Landscape photos and close-up shots are particularly susceptible.
Distortion
Look for subtle wonkiness or distortion, especially in faces within a crowd. Some might appear as if they’ve taken a dip in an oil painting.
Unusual Proportions
Objects may seem disproportionately sized – towering cars or minuscule doorways that defy realistic dimensions.
Shadows and Light
Unlike real-world photos adhering to the laws of physics, AI-generated images play with shadows going in all directions.
Unnatural Textures
AI tends to make textures appear too flawless, lacking natural variations. Conversely, hyper-realistic portraits may exhibit magnified details like wrinkles and pores.
Watermarks
Free AI image generators often leave watermarks in the form of logos or text in the bottom right corner, indicating their origin.
Weirdness
Despite AI advancements, anomalies persist. Look for oddly shaped features, extra fingers, or mismatched accessories – the subtle peculiarities that betray artificial creation.
Essential Tools for Image Verification
AI or Not
Simply drag, drop, upload, or paste an image URL into the search bar, and AI or Not provides an instant legitimacy verdict.
Hugging Face
Similar to AI or Not, Hugging Face delivers an AI verdict in percentages, distinguishing between human and artificial elements.
Reverse Image Search
The ever-reliable reverse image search by Google can verify an image’s authenticity. If credible sources match, it’s likely genuine; if directed to an AI site, skepticism is warranted.
Equip yourself with these insights and tools to navigate the intricate world of AI-generated images. Stay vigilant, and the pixelated wilderness will reveal its secrets.