**Using A.I. to Transform Selfies into Professional Headshots: The Trend Among Gen Zers and Millennials**
**Introduction**
Professional headshots can be costly, but thanks to artificial intelligence (A.I.), Gen Zers and millennials on TikTok are now able to enhance their selfies and iPhone photos into high-quality images suitable for platforms like LinkedIn and Slack. This article explores the popular A.I. tools being used for this purpose and discusses the flaws associated with A.I.-generated images.
**Transforming Selfies with A.I.: The Most Used Options**
Apps like Remini and tools like Canva’s Magic Edit have gained significant popularity among TikTok users. Remini, in particular, has become a sensation on the platform, generating over 1.4 billion views associated with the #remini hashtag. Users are sharing their attempts using the app and showcasing the impressive results. The top-liked video by the user @GracesPlace garnered more than 40.7 million views and 2.9 million likes in just four days.
**Remini: Making Professional Headshots Accessible**
Remini offers a range of features for enhancing photos, including its tool for creating headshots. While the app is free to download, full access to all features, including the headshot tool, requires a subscription. Some users have utilized the free trial week, while others were offered a trial week for 99 cents. The standard subscription fee is $9.99 weekly.
To generate an A.I. headshot, Remini users must upload multiple photos of themselves and select their gender. They then choose a “model image” that represents the desired style and composition, with categories such as “casual,” “trendy,” “travel,” and even “business attire” available. The A.I. algorithm then generates the headshot, with subsequent rounds taking less than a minute.
**Canva’s Magic Edit: Refining Outfits and Backgrounds**
TikTokers are also utilizing Canva’s Magic Edit, a free A.I. tool, to edit out casual or unprofessional outfits and backgrounds. This feature allows users to present a more polished appearance in their photos, making them suitable for professional platforms and profiles.
**Flaws with A.I.-Generated Images: The Pope Francis Example**
Although A.I. technology has made significant advancements in generating realistic images, there are still inherent flaws. The recent example of an A.I.-generated image of Pope Francis wearing a Balenciaga-inspired puffer jacket demonstrated some of these flaws. Upon closer examination, signs such as obscured or deformed hands, distorted details, and jewelry anomalies were evident.
Similarly, the headshots produced by Remini and Canva are impressive, but they are not flawless. Remini’s smoothing and airbrushing effects can result in unnaturally smooth skin and distorted hands or fine details. Moreover, some users have accused the A.I. algorithms of being “fatphobic” as it automatically edits bodies to appear thinner. These criticisms highlight the limitations of A.I. technology in accurately representing individuals.
**Conclusion**
While A.I.-powered tools like Remini and Canva’s Magic Edit have revolutionized the way individuals can enhance their selfies for professional purposes, it is essential to recognize the flaws associated with A.I.-generated images. Users should approach these tools with caution, understanding that the results may not always be a true representation of themselves. As technology continues to improve, it is crucial to remain skeptical and critical of its capabilities.
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