Dating apps have become a place where people strive to present their best selves, whether through natural gifts, photography skills, or editing tools. The rise of AI photo generators has added a new layer to this facade, raising concerns about how far we are straying from reality.
During a recent dinner with friends, the topic of AI-generated photos on dating apps came up, sparking an idea for me to try it out myself. The use of AI-generated images on dating profiles is not new, with some apps even developing tools to help users select photos. I decided to experiment with this trend, only to find the results to be disheartening.
The prevalence of excessive editing and filtering in photos, as seen on platforms like r/InstagramReality, raises concerns about body dysmorphic disorder (BDD). This psychiatric condition affects a small percentage of the population and involves fixating on imperceptible flaws, often related to appearance.
I decided to generate AI photos using the Remini app, which offers realistic yet edited images based on uploaded photos. After uploading several pictures and selecting a model image, I waited for the AI to work its magic. The resulting images were anatomically incorrect at times but were still chosen for my dating profile.
To my surprise, the AI-generated photos received more likes and comments than my real photos on Hinge. Despite their unrealistic features, they seemed to appeal to users more than my authentic self. This trend continued over several weeks, highlighting the challenge of balancing reality with idealized images in the online dating world.
As AI technology continues to evolve, the line between real and edited photos becomes increasingly blurred. The pressure to present a flawless image online can contribute to issues like BDD, emphasizing the importance of promoting authenticity and self-acceptance in digital spaces.