AI tools are increasingly being used to create images, making it harder to distinguish between AI-generated and human-made visuals. As AI technology advances, spotting the differences becomes more challenging, but there are still telltale signs to watch for.
Here are several key indicators that an image may have been created by AI.
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An example of an image created by AI-A-AI-CREATED (Kurt “Tech Word News” Knutsson)
1. Detail Issues
AI often struggles with fine details in photos of people, such as facial features, textures, and hands. Look for irregularities like extra fingers, unusual skin tones, or unnatural teeth.
2. Shiny or Fake-Looking Textures
AI-generated images may have textures that appear too smooth or shiny. This is especially noticeable in skin or natural elements like trees or grass, which can look plastic or overly perfect.
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3. Lighting and Shadow Problems
Inconsistent lighting and shadows are a red flag. AI may produce odd shadow placements or flat, unrealistic lighting.
4. Background Inconsistencies
AI often struggles with depth and perspective, so check the background for distortions, blurry objects, or mismatched elements that don’t align with the main subject.
5. Distorted Text
If there’s text in the image, it may appear nonsensical or poorly rendered. AI has difficulty generating readable text, especially in complex visuals.
6. Hidden Bias
AI learns from existing data, which can include biases. For example, AI-generated images often default to depicting white males, reflecting underlying data imbalances.
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An example of an image created by AI-A-AI-CREATED (Kurt “Tech Word News” Knutsson)
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7. Unrealistic Elements
AI-generated images may include bizarre or impossible elements, such as animals in unnatural colors or illogical settings. If something seems too strange to be real, it likely is.
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8. Watermarks
Some AI tools automatically add watermarks to images, either in the corner or subtly embedded in the background.
9. Missing Metadata
AI-generated images often lack metadata, such as camera details or copyright information. To check metadata:
- On Windows: Right-click the image, select Properties, and click the Details tab.
- On Mac: Right-click the image and choose Get Info.
10. Reverse Image Search
For suspicious images, perform a reverse image search to trace their origin. If they’re widely shared on social media but not on credible sites, proceed with caution
