It’s no secret that eye-catching visuals rule the web, and even studies show that content with pictures gets way more attention (94% more views). It's no wonder that website owners are scrambling for visuals that enhance their website’s appeal. One hot trend right now is AI-generated images. But are these computer-made creations right for your site?

AI-generated images bring a blend of creativity, efficiency, and innovation to the table. However, just like any tool, it has its pros and cons. This article will help you decide if AI images are a good fit for your website, considering your brand's style and goals. Let's dive in!

Key takeaway

AI images can be an ideal option if you're on a tight budget or want something totally unique. Just make sure they fit the vibe of your site and you're not stepping on any toes copyright-wise.

As a rule of thumb: Most AI image generators are safe to use, but it never hurts to double-check their terms and conditions. And as a courtesy, avoid using them to copy someone else's logo or rip off a specific artist's style. 

AI-generated images: Types and use cases

When it comes to generative AI, the possibilities are diverse and dynamic. These days, computers can create all sorts of AI images. You can generate portraits that look like real people or create abstract stuff. One prominent technology behind these creations is Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs), which pit two neural networks against each other to produce highly realistic outputs.

So, what can you use this AI art for? Well, AI-generated images are becoming a versatile tool across industries. Online stores use it to create one-of-a-kind product pictures, and artists use it to bring their ideas to life. You can create images and tailor them to perfectly match your brand's style. The best AI image generator is also way faster and cheaper than hiring a photographer or designer. As AI content generators continue to develop, we can expect some exciting new ways to create and experience visual content online.

Pros of using AI-generated content

Cost-effectiveness

AI-generated art can save you a bundle by cutting out the need for pricey photographers or expensive stock photos. That means more budget left for other crucial areas of your business.

Customization and uniqueness

With an AI photo generator, you can whip up images that are tailored to your brand's vibe. Tweak colors, styles, and compositions until they scream "you," giving your site a unique visual identity.

Scalability

Whether you need one image or a hundred, AI handles it for you. It churns out consistent, high-quality visuals at scale. This helps you make sure your brand stays on point across all your digital spaces.

Cons of using an AI image generator

Quality and authenticity

Not all AI art is created equal. The quality can depend on the pictures the computer program used to learn. If it was trained on blurry, pixelated photos, the AI art it creates might be, well, blurry and pixelated too. For professional-looking visuals, you want clear, high-quality images going in, so the AI art coming out looks sharp and realistic.

Copyright and legal issues

There's a bit of a debate about AI art and copyright. Some experts worry these programs might potentially infringe copyright laws. This could lead to legal trouble and raise questions about how fairly we use AI-generated content. Specifically, AI-generated images can violate copyright laws by replicating copyrighted images. That's why it's important to find AI image generators that take steps to avoid copyright infringement.

Ethical considerations 

A concern surrounding AI art is bias. These AI programs are trained on a massive amount of data, and if that data is biased, the art it creates can be biased too. Another concern is what it means for human artists and photographers. Will AI take over creative jobs? Will it change how artists work? Could it even replace some human creators altogether? As AI gets more advanced, it's important to consider how it might impact creative fields.

Best practices for implementing AI-generated images 

It can be a game-changer to generate AI images for your website. However, it's essential to follow best practices to maximize their effectiveness and avoid pitfalls.

Finding the right AI art tools

Look for services with a good reputation for quality and reliability. Think about how easy they are to use, how much you can customize the images, and if they work well with the stuff you already use.

Ensuring image quality and relevance

Don't just throw any AI image on your website. Take a good look to make sure it matches the overall look and feel of your brand and the message you're trying to get across.

Addressing copyright and ethical concerns

Stay on the right side of the law and ethics by addressing copyright and ethical considerations. Ensure that AI-generated images don’t infringe on copyrighted material. Be transparent about the use of AI technology and its potential impact on creative industries, respecting the work of human artists and photographers.

Alternatives to AI-generated images for your website

If AI-generated images don't quite fit the bill for your website or social media posts, here are some alternatives to consider:

Professional photography

A skilled photographer can capture the essence of your products or services, adding a personal touch that resonates with your audience.

Stock photography

Affordable and easy to find, stock photos can be a great fit if you can find ones that match your brand's style. 

Custom illustrations

Want something unique that tells a story? Commissioned illustrations let you get creative and really stand out from the crowd.

User-generated content

Incorporating user-generated content, such as customer photos and reviews, adds authenticity and social proof to your website. It engages your audience and builds community while showcasing real-world uses of your products or services.

Balancing innovation and practicality with AI-generated images 

While AI tools offer innovative solutions for visual content, it's essential to balance these advantages with potential drawbacks like quality inconsistencies and legal implications.

When exploring website options, consider B12’s website builder to help you create professional websites that reflect your unique brand identity. Unlike typical stock images, B12 utilizes real images relevant to your business, ensuring authenticity and a genuine connection with your audience. This approach enhances visual appeal while building trust and credibility, which are crucial elements for engaging visitors and achieving your website goals.

Sign up today and see how B12 can enhance your website with authentic visuals that resonate!