This is a synthetic image, not a photograph, generated in response to Fred Ritchin’s prompt, “Alfred Stieglitz taking a selfie,” by DreamStudio using artificial intelligence, 2024.
This is a synthetic image, not a photograph, generated in response to Fred Ritchin’s prompt, “Alfred Stieglitz taking a selfie,” by DreamStudio using artificial intelligence, 2024.
Exiting the Photographic Universe
2:00 pm–3:30 pm
Photography has always been interpretive, but a useful construct—a recording of the visible, creating a shared reality. Today photorealistic images can be generated without using a camera that seem to establish realities by borrowing from the photographic, allowing both contemporary events and histories to be profoundly distorted. This use of generative artificial intelligence puts the future of the photograph as a credible witness in severe jeopardy. How can one try to meet these challenges? What is at stake? Join us for a talk with Fred Ritchin, author of The Synthetic Eye: Photography Transformed in the Age of AI (2024) to consider these questions and more.
Fred Ritchin, author, The Synthetic Eye: Photography Transformed in the Age of AI
Course Packages
Purchase a ticket package for the full four-session “Multiple Histories in Photography” course. Please note that this option is not available after the date of the first session.
Assistive listening system
Wheelchair accessible
Ticket Information
To order tickets by phone, call 1-800-440-6975 ($6 processing fee applies); to order in person, visit any MFA ticket desk.
Bag Checks
All bags are subject to inspection by Museum staff. Backpacks, large bags, all liquids including hand sanitizer and sunscreen, and outside food or drink are not permitted. Exceptions are made for medical or religious needs. All bags are strongly discouraged, and any bags larger than 11” x 15” must be checked in the Coat Room upon entry. Read our full bag check policy.