There’s a new trend rolling through the content world like a robot on rollerblades: AI-generated action figures. You’ve probably seen them—those ridiculously slick, often hilariously over-the-top portraits of people reimagined as heroic warriors, space marines, or 80s-style toys you’d find in a bargain bin at Toys “R” Us (RIP).
And naturally, as with anything AI, there’s a bit of noise out there.
Some creators are worried. “Is this the end of traditional photography?” “Will illustrators become obsolete?” “What’s the point if a computer can spit out a toy version of me with more abs than I’ve ever had in my life?”
Let’s calm the jets.
The Problem Isn’t AI — It’s the Fixed Mindset
AI isn’t a threat to creators. A fixed mindset is.
If you’re clinging to how things used to be, sure—AI probably feels like an invading force. But if you’re adaptable, curious, and even a little opportunistic (which, let’s face it, you should be in this game), then AI is just another tool. A new brush for your palette. A fresh lens to look through.
I’ve built businesses on being creative, from making heartfelt wedding films to marketing in the wild world of holiday parks. And here’s the thing: I use AI. I use it to brainstorm ideas, test design styles, build mockups, write drafts, even get clients excited by showing them concepts that didn’t take six hours in Photoshop.
But the key word here is use. I’m in charge. AI doesn’t replace me—it multiplies me.
The Human Bit Still Matters
AI can whip up an image of someone in a cape with lightning eyes and a flaming sword, but it still can’t do one crucial thing: tell a real, emotional story that resonates. Not like a human. Not like you.
It doesn’t know how to read the room, it doesn’t understand why a laugh during a wedding toast means something, and it sure as hell hasn’t had a toddler throw cake at it during a christening shoot.
What makes content valuable is connection. Emotion. Timing. Taste. That instinct. And if you’re good at what you do, none of that can be automated.
Use It or Lose It
Look, the reality is that this AI stuff isn’t going away. It’s only getting better. So, as content creators, we have two options:
- Complain about it while watching other people pass us by.
- Learn how to use it, adapt, and make it part of the way we work.
I know which one I’m choosing.
I’ve already had clients asking for “AI-style portraits,” and guess what—I said yes. Not because I want to replace the beautiful human touch of traditional work, but because I can offer both. And that makes me more valuable, not less.
So if you’re a creator, stop panicking. Start experimenting. Play with the tools. See what they can do for you, not to you.
Because the people who are going to win in this new era? They’re not the ones yelling at the clouds.
They’re the ones using them.
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