CAPIC-National

THE CANADIAN ASSOCIATION OF PROFESSIONAL IMAGE CREATORS

Xposé Legends 2023

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May 2023

CAPIC Xposé LEGENDS

One iconic piece from each of the Legends will be showcased in the Xposé exhibition. 

This year’s CAPIC Legends are: Barbara Cole, Ron Baxter-Smith, Myron Zabol, George Simhoni, and Bob Wigington.

More info here.

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April 2023

Statement on AI-Generated Images and Copyright for the Canadian Association of Professional Image Creators (CAPIC)

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) has ushered in numerous innovations in the field of image creation. However, as AI-generated images become more prevalent, concerns regarding copyright, authorship, attribution, and the ethical use of this technology have emerged.

CAPIC acknowledges the various perspectives presented by international organizations, associations, and professionals, such as the National Press Photographers Association (NPPA), International Center of Photography (ICP), World Press Photo organization, American Society of Media Photographers (ASMP), and others. As a result, we encourage our members to stay informed about AI’s impact on image creation and copyright, and to consider these points when using AI technologies in their work. While the issue remains largely unresolved, it is evident that existing legal frameworks may not be fully equipped to handle these novel challenges.

We urge our members to adhere to the CAPIC Code of Ethics, ensuring they maintain the highest standards of professionalism and ethical conduct in their practice. Members should be aware of the potential risks in using copyrighted material as a basis for AI-generated images without permission, as well as the importance of attribution and authorship. Ethical considerations surrounding the authenticity of images, the role of the image creator in the creative process, and the potential misuse of AI-generated “deepfake” images to spread misinformation must also be taken into account.

While AI-generated images may offer creative possibilities and technical enhancements, it is crucial to preserve the integrity and authenticity of the image creation profession. CAPIC supports the idea that human vision, emotion, and creativity remain at the core of image creation, and AI should be utilized as a tool to augment, not replace, the image creator’s work.

As AI technology continues to evolve, CAPIC will closely monitor legal and ethical developments and provide guidance to our members. We encourage open dialogue and collaboration to navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by AI-generated images, ensuring that the rights and responsibilities of professional image creators are protected and respected. CAPIC calls for ongoing dialogue, research, and collaboration among stakeholders in the photography, visual media, and legal communities to address the challenges posed by AI-generated images. We encourage our members to stay informed about developments in AI and copyright law to ensure their work is protected and to contribute to the conversation on this critical topic.

Ultimately, it is the responsibility of each CAPIC member to stay informed and make ethical decisions in their work, always prioritizing the values of authenticity, creativity, and professional integrity. We believe that it is the collective responsibility of image creators, technology providers, and policymakers to develop a more flexible legal framework that accommodates the unique nature of AI-generated works, while also safeguarding the rights, creativity, and vision of professional image creators.

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April 2023

The Canadian Association of Professional Image Creators supports formal photography education and the continuation of the Photographic Technology program at Northern Alberta Institute of Technology.

The Canadian Association of Professional Image Creators (CAPIC) expresses its concern regarding the potential closure of the Photographic Technology program at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT). As a professional organization representing photographers and visual creators across Canada, we strongly believe that formal photography education plays a crucial role in shaping the industry and ensuring its continued growth and success.

In Canada, the demand for professional photography services is steadily increasing, with the photography industry contributing over $2.7 billion to the Canadian economy annually. This growth is driven by the rise of digital media and the increased need for visual content across various platforms. With this growth comes the need for highly skilled and trained professionals who can meet the demands of clients and consumers alike.

Formal photography education programs, such as the Photographic Technology program at NAIT, provide aspiring photographers with the necessary technical skills, industry knowledge, and ethical standards required to succeed in this competitive field. These programs offer hands-on training, mentorship, and access to state-of-the-art equipment and technology, giving students the opportunity to develop their craft and build a solid foundation for their careers.

Moreover, formal photography education programs help to establish a standard of professionalism in the industry. By promoting ethical and sustainable practices, these programs contribute to the overall quality and reputation of the profession. They also help to foster a sense of community among photographers, allowing them to connect with peers and mentors and learn from their experiences.

We would like to emphasize that our position on the importance of formal photography education is not unique to Canada. Similar organizations and associations in the United States and the United Kingdom also support the value of these programs. The American Society of Media Photographers, for example, advocates for the continued funding and support of photography education programs, stating that they are essential for the growth and development of the industry. The British Institute of Professional Photography similarly emphasizes the importance of formal education in photography, stating that it is crucial for the professionalization of the industry.

In light of these facts, we urge decision-makers to reconsider the potential closure of the Photographic Technology program at NAIT. We believe that this program, and others like it across Canada, play a critical role in the development and success of the photography industry, and we stand in support of its continuation.

We invite people to sign the online petition on this link.
If you have any questions, please contact Trevor Zimmerman, Labour Relations Director with the NAIT Academic Staff Association: lrdnasa@gmail.com.

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