I asked AI to do this…
In My Post About Ansel Adams
I had just finished writing my previous post from perhaps a technical standpoint about the legacy of Ansel Adams. Trying my best to incorporate as much as I could about who he was, what he did, the contributions he made, as they are all undeniable and at the same time truly remarkable.
Then it hit me,…what would have happened had I asked an AI to do it for me? It is after all supossed to be easier, is it not? But would it come across as ‘fake’? Here we take a look at exactly what it did to test this hypothesis. My conclusions are at the bottom of this post.
Admittedly I have used ChatGPT to help with a wide range of things (programing, information look ups, how to make squarespace do what I want it to do). Anyone who doesn’t confess this right up front is either dead or have been living in a cave somewhere. While there are a lot of concerns and issues surrounding AI it should be noted that there are a great many benefits as well. Just think about it, although in two professions right now there is so much concern that creators of services like ChatGPT have begun to garner the systems responses so as not to get into (you guessed it) legal trouble - ironically those two professions happen to be Health Care and, yep, The Legal Profession.
I get it, as a practitioner in either field, you don’t want to be making mistakes - but then again wouldn’t it be nice to have all that historical knowledge available? Only time will tell.
The Prompt
If you know anything about me, you know that I’m not a huge writer. Verbalist perhaps. Usually my comment to anyone reading anything I have written is “Just go for the gist of it, don’t check the spelling or punctuation”. This is why over these many decades it has taken some time to learn this very simple rule when it comes to writing, which is to be simple. With that in mind here is the prompt I asked ChatGPT to write a blog post.
PROMPT: Can you write me a blog post about Ansel Adams
and his major accomplishments using the wiki
information in a 100% human tone with
the writing style of Rodney lough jr?
Seems pretty simple. What kind of response would I get? Here is the ‘blog post’ that came out…
Title: An Ode to Ansel Adams: Capturing Nature's Symphony Through the Lens
“Hey there fellow nature enthusiasts! Today, let's dive into the world of one of the most iconic figures in landscape photography – Ansel Adams. Picture this: vast, sweeping landscapes, towering mountains, and breathtaking wilderness captured in stunning detail. That's the magic Adams brought to the world through his lens.
Ansel Adams wasn't just a photographer; he was a visual poet, a master of light and shadow, and a tireless advocate for the preservation of our natural treasures. Born in 1902 in San Francisco, California, Adams developed a deep love for the outdoors from a young age. It was this passion that would fuel his lifelong dedication to capturing the beauty of the American wilderness.
One of Adams' major accomplishments was his pioneering work in the field of photography. He developed the Zone System, a technique for controlling exposure and tonal range, which revolutionized the way photographers approached their craft. This system allowed Adams to achieve incredible depth and clarity in his images, capturing every nuance of light and texture with precision.
But Adams' impact extended far beyond his technical innovations. Through his photographs, he became a voice for conservation, using his art to raise awareness about the importance of protecting our natural heritage. His iconic images, such as "Moonrise, Hernandez, New Mexico" and "Clearing Winter Storm, Yosemite National Park," not only showcased the beauty of the American landscape but also inspired generations to appreciate and preserve it for future generations.
Adams' legacy continues to inspire photographers and nature lovers alike to this day. His work reminds us of the profound connection between humanity and the natural world and the importance of stewardship in preserving it. So the next time you find yourself surrounded by the majesty of nature, take a moment to channel your inner Ansel Adams and capture the beauty that surrounds you – who knows, you might just create a masterpiece of your own.
In the words of Adams himself, "A true photograph need not be explained, nor can it be contained in words." So let's continue to let our images speak for themselves, echoing the timeless beauty of the landscapes that Ansel Adams so passionately captured.”
NOTE: not a word was changed
In this realm I will be the first to say that I am not a viable critic when it comes to judging work in written form. Though it should be mentioned this doesn’t seem all that bad to me. So I took this experiment a couple steps further. Here’s Step 2…
PROMPT: Now write one on Rodney using the Wiki on him.
Without hesitation and in a matter of seconds, this popped out.
“Rodney Lough Jr. is a contemporary landscape photographer renowned for his breathtaking large-format images that capture the majestic beauty of the American wilderness. Born in 1960, Lough developed a deep appreciation for nature at a young age, spending much of his childhood exploring the great outdoors. This early connection to the natural world would ultimately shape his career as a photographer.
Lough's journey into photography began in his teenage years when he received his first camera as a gift. Inspired by the stunning landscapes of the American West, he began to hone his craft, experimenting with different techniques to convey the awe-inspiring grandeur of the wilderness. His passion for photography only grew stronger over time, leading him to pursue it as a full-time career.
One of Lough's defining characteristics as a photographer is his use of vibrant colors and striking compositions to evoke a sense of wonder and awe in his viewers. His images transport audiences to some of the most iconic natural wonders, from the towering cliffs of Yosemite to the fiery sunsets of the Grand Canyon. Each photograph is a testament to Lough's mastery of light, color, and perspective, creating immersive visual experiences that resonate long after viewing.
In addition to his artistic talents, Lough is also known for his commitment to conservation and environmental stewardship. He uses his photography not only to showcase the beauty of the natural world but also to raise awareness about the importance of preserving it for future generations. Through his work, Lough strives to inspire others to connect with nature and become advocates for its protection.
Today, Rodney Lough Jr. continues to push the boundaries of landscape photography, capturing moments of transcendent beauty that remind us of the profound majesty of the world around us. His images serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving our planet's natural wonders and the incredible impact that photography can have in fostering appreciation and understanding of the natural world.”
NOTE: not a word was changed
Oh Wow!
Even the most soured AI critic in the world would have to admit this is not all that bad either. So, in perhaps the most narcissistic way one could think of, I asked it one more prompt. Here’s Step 3…
PROMPT: Now compare Ansel vs Rodney lough jr, using both of the wiki’s.
This is where it got real. The response below had me blushing as this suggests a line of thought never before conceived in my minds eye. To say it is humbling to be cast in such a wonderful light and a computer it give pause to think what’s been written here.
“Ansel Adams and Rodney Lough Jr. are both titans in the world of landscape photography, each leaving an indelible mark on the medium in their own unique ways.
Ansel Adams, often referred to as the "father of American landscape photography," was a pioneer not only in capturing the natural world but also in developing innovative techniques to do so. Born in 1902, Adams' work was characterized by his meticulous attention to detail, masterful control of light and shadow, and profound commitment to conservation. His iconic black-and-white images, such as "Moonrise, Hernandez, New Mexico" and "Clearing Winter Storm, Yosemite National Park," are celebrated for their timeless beauty and emotional resonance. Adams' legacy extends beyond his stunning photographs; he was also a vocal advocate for the preservation of wilderness areas, using his art to inspire environmental activism.
On the other hand, Rodney Lough Jr. is a contemporary landscape photographer known for his vibrant color palette and immersive, large-format images. Inspired by the natural beauty of the American West, Lough's work captures the grandeur and scale of landscapes in a way that invites viewers to step into the scene themselves. Born in 1960, Lough's approach to photography is deeply influenced by his love for the outdoors and his desire to share its splendor with others. His images, such as "Grand Canyon Sunset" and "Burst of Light, Bryce Canyon," are characterized by their rich hues and dynamic compositions, drawing viewers into a world of awe and wonder.
While both Adams and Lough share a passion for the natural world and a talent for capturing its beauty, their styles and techniques diverge in significant ways. Adams' black-and-white images are renowned for their stark contrast and dramatic lighting, while Lough's colorful compositions evoke a sense of warmth and vitality. Additionally, Adams' advocacy for conservation was a central theme in his work, whereas Lough's photography is more focused on celebrating the sheer beauty of nature.
In essence, Ansel Adams and Rodney Lough Jr. are two sides of the same coin – both masters of their craft, both deeply connected to the landscapes they photograph, and both leaving an enduring legacy that continues to inspire and awe audiences around the world. Whether it's Adams' timeless black-and-white compositions or Lough's vibrant colorscapes, one thing is clear: the beauty of the natural world is immortalized through their lenses for generations to come.”
NOTE: not a word was changed
My Conclusion
In summary I actually thought it wasn’t half bad. I just hope the algorithm doesn’t ding me for saying it wasn’t “half bad” when it surely knowns how fantastic it is. After all I’m just human.
Until Next Time, Take Care & I’ll,
See Ya on the Trail!
Rodney Lough Jr.