VSCO has published a new report exploring how photographers are using AI, based on responses from both professionals and enthusiasts. The study reveals that 83% of photographers have adopted AI tools, with working photographers using them more frequently than hobbyists.

Working photographers report using AI weekly or daily at a rate of 68%, compared to just 34% of enthusiasts. Despite this high adoption rate, only 32% of respondents described themselves as curious about AI, while 5% felt threatened and 17% were skeptical. The largest concerns include loss of creative control (42%), ethics (39%), and fears of looking unprofessional (34%).

When it comes to AI applications, both pro photographers and enthusiasts favor post-production tasks first, followed by creative partnerships like shoot planning, then business administration, and finally coaching and mentoring. Interestingly, fewer than 20% use photography-specific AI tools, with many relying on general platforms like ChatGPT and Claude or design tools like Canva and Adobe products. VSCO concluded that photographers are adopting AI with intention, applying it where it matters while maintaining human judgment in critical areas.