CGI vs AI Generated Images: What’s The Difference?
Brands have more choice than ever before when it comes to creating content. New production methods have become commercially viable, with each varying in its abilities, strengths and weaknesses. So, understanding the differences between production techniques is important for brands. In this article, we explore the key differences between CGI (Computer-Generated Imagery) and AI (Artificial Intelligence).
Both techniques are increasing in popularity and recent advances in software has enabled huge leaps in image quality. Whilst both rely on computer generation, their purposes, processes, and outcomes differ significantly.
What Is CGI?
CGI refers to a highly controlled method of creating images, animations, and special effects using computer software. The technique is widely used to replace room set photography for interiors brands.
Image renders are created by CGI artists who specialise in the software. Generally, the images fall into two main types, photorealism and hyper-realism. The former is most commonly used in commercial images; however hyper-realism can explore creative concepts that are used in advertising campaigns.
CGI professionals manually craft 3D models, animate them, and render the final visuals. Every detail is controlled through the software, with CGI artists designing each frame or element as needed. Textures, perspectives, colours, lighting, and shadows are controlled to create realism.
What Is AI?
Artificial intelligence is a widely applied technology, but here we're talking about using various AI tools to generate images.
AI image generator technology is evolving at a rapid rate and has become viable for commercial marketing activities in certain circumstances. AI generated images rely on a series of prompts to narrow down generated iterations into the final image. Reference images may also be uploaded to help nudge the software closer to the style you require. Often, lots of trial and error is needed, as the user of the software has little direct control over the generated image other than prompts and references. It is possible to refine specific areas of an image, but the results are unreliable.
Users guide and train AI tools to create images, but much of the content generation is based on the AI tool’s data and sourcing ability using the internet. It is not an instant solution to perfect product images as many claim, but AI can be useful in a range of circumstances. For idea generation in the planning process of images, AI is an incredibly useful tool. It can be used to create mood boards, concepts, and storyboards far quicker than other methods. Images may also be good enough to publish for marketing purposes on social media or web, but we'd generally warn against using them in printed catalogues, brochures, and large formats.
Why Is There Confusion Between AI And CGI?
Generated AI has become a buzz word that has been used by the media to talk about many different technologies. In amongst the hype and digital similarities of the two techniques, it's easy to see how CGI can be mistakenly labelled under the umbrella of AI. CGI is about creating accurate visuals through manual processes using digital tools, whilst AI uses existing images and written prompts to form quick images more easily.
Both these techniques are changing the way ecommerce brands create and commission their images for marketing. Whilst AI is attracting lots of attention, CGI is the preferred process out of the two for accurate product images that are more effective in marketing.
Creative Imagery
See some of our creative work using a range a techniques.
Our team can create exciting images using photography, virtual production, CGI and AI.
