AI: A QUICK LOOK AT THE GOOD, THE BAD, AND THE UNKNOWN

Still feeling a bit unsure about AI? SAME! Let's take a look at all the things that intrigue, intimidate, and mystify those of us who haven't fully embraced this whole AI thing.

I held off on this topic because I have mixed feelings about AI. As a digital artist, I felt uneasy about something that could create a book cover with just a few details. The prospect of using AI to create stunning new art was exciting, though.

Although I haven't created any covers with my own AI-generated 'masterpieces,' I have used AI images that I licensed from digital artists and reputable stock agencies, like Adobe, for pre-made work. I've also collaborated with a few clients who brought their own AI-generated images for custom projects. As hesitant as I am, I'm slowly testing the waters.

We know AI isn't going anywhere. We'll continue to see further advancements and more integration. With any new technology, there are both benefits and drawbacks. So, let's explore a few of the good, the bad, and the unknowns.

The Good:

1. Cost-Effective: Let's face it - writing can sometimes be a labor of love. And sometimes, hiring a designer, even those who don't charge an arm and a leg, can be a budget-buster for some. AI-generated covers provide an alternative when funds are tight.

2. Timesaving: Between scheduling and communications that can sometimes go back and forth a lot, the investment of time that goes into a designer can vary. AI, on the other hand, can whip up multiple designs faster than you can brew a cup of coffee.

3. Customization: AI tools give authors a chance to bring their visions to life. Authors will have complete control over their cover art and the ability to tweak details as they see fit.

4. Market Adaptability: Let's be real - not all designers keep up with market trends (even though they should!), especially when it comes to niche genres. AI tools, on the other hand, are trained on these trends. So, when used effectively, AI-generated covers can truly create art that resonates with the right audience.

The Bad:

1. Creative Constraints: AI-generated covers often lack finesse, giving an immediate "something's off" vibe. AI tools struggle with complex requirements and adjustments, unlike human designers who adapt quickly to feedback.

2. Legal & Ethical Concerns: Ownership and ethics in AI-generated art have been an ongoing debate. AI is trained on existing images, leading to concerns about authenticity and potential infringement on intellectual property and copyright. It also can't obtain a model's release, creating ethical dilemmas.

3. Bias & Stereotyping: AI, trained on real-world data, can inadvertently replicate social and racial biases. It can't distinguish offensive or harmful content, resulting in insensitive images.

4. Data Security: AI systems are vulnerable to data breaches. There is an immediate challenge to protect sensitive data and privacy while still being able to utilize the capabilities of artificial intelligence.

5. Sloppiness: Two words: six fingers. Yep, that's right - we've all seen a cover or promo featuring beautiful images of people—with an extra finger, no thumb, an eye without a lid, or even a mouth with two bottom lips. These details can be quite alarming, unattractive, and sometimes, downright scary. While a person doesn't need to have all their fingers to be beautiful, unless your book intentionally includes these unique elements, such mistakes are a faux pas. Quality does matter.

The Unknown:

1. Employment Impact: The technology is still very new, and it's uncertain whether AI will create new job opportunities or replace existing ones. The balance between humans and machines in this space is still evolving.

2. Rules & Guidelines: With AI tech rapidly advancing, questions about regulation and management abound. Concrete guidelines need to be established globally to govern its use properly.

3. Usage Restrictions: Right now, platforms like KDP require you to disclose if you've used AI-generated content. In the future, publishing platforms might ban AI-created material altogether to keep things authentic. This situation is always changing, so we’ll need to keep an eye on any new rules.

A Few More Things to Keep in Mind:

• AI tools like MidJourney provide commercial licenses but come with controversies. Do your research to understand the implications.

• Keep in mind that designers and firms in different countries often use these tools under various regulations, which might not apply to you. It's important to be aware of the differences.

• I suggest performing visual searches on AI-generated images to confirm their authenticity. While this method isn't entirely accurate, it serves as an additional layer of control.

• Quality matters to readers, literary agents, bloggers, and other authors. Anomalies in these images are common and can have a negative impact on your book catalog. AI hasn't been perfected yet, and issues are easily detected.  Don't forget Mr. Six Fingers, No Thumbs.

There is so much more I could talk about here, but for the sake of time, I'll end it here.

I'm working on a new AI policy for Covers in Color that will be available on my site once it's been completed and reviewed by my attorney.

For now, I will not be using any AI tools to generate images for my designs. However, I remain open to using licensed AI stock images in my projects occasionally. Clear disclosures will be noted on those graphics so you are aware before purchasing. For custom designs, you will have the option to select your preference on AI stock images.

So, this is me dipping my toe into those waters I am testing. You'll be the first to know if/when I go all in. For now, my toe is enough.

What about you? Where do you stand on AI?