In traditional retail, customers have the advantage of physically interacting with items before making a purchase decision. However, in the e-commerce space, comprehensive product information and images play a vital role in helping customers make informed choices. Research has even shown that the number of product images directly correlates with higher conversion rates. (Source: ResearchGate)
Currently, retailers and advertisers face limitations in terms of the quantity and quality of product photography required to create a captivating shopping experience. The costs and logistics associated with organizing extensive photoshoots, managing large product catalogs, and catering to diverse audience preferences can be overwhelming.
This is where AI steps in. Artificial Intelligence has the remarkable ability to generate virtually any image imaginable, opening up a world of possibilities for marketers and brand managers. With AI-powered solutions, creating new product imagery for ad creatives, campaigns, and social media becomes more efficient and accessible.
By harnessing the potential of AI in automating product imagery, retailers and advertisers can overcome traditional limitations, save resources, and deliver engaging visuals that captivate their online audience.
While the breadth and versatility of AI can be overwhelming, we will focus on two key types of AI solutions:
- Text-to-Image Generators: These AI systems can generate images based on textual descriptions, allowing marketers to bring their product concepts to life without the need for extensive photography.
- Image Optimizers: AI algorithms can enhance and optimize existing product images, ensuring they meet quality standards, improving visual appeal, and customizing visuals for different platforms.
Text-to-Image generators are undoubtedly one of the most spectacular AI tools available. As the name suggests, they allow us to create a synthesized image entirely from scratch, using only a keyboard.
With this tool, we provide the system with a prompt, which is an instruction detailed in natural language, describing what we want to create. In just a few seconds, we are presented with several options to choose from or generate further versions.
From an e-commerce perspective, Text-to-Image generators are particularly useful for inspiration, generating content for blogs and social networks, and overall communication purposes.
However, in the context of e-commerce, product photography is a critical aspect. It is essential that the images accurately represent the product, as this builds trust and authority with potential customers. Achieving this level of reliability through Artificial Intelligence alone can be challenging.
If the generated images don’t closely resemble real products, it can hinder conversion rates since they lack the necessary authority. Moreover, the potential increase in customer complaints and returns due to users expecting an exact match to the product based on the image can be quite alarming.
While Text-to-Image generators offer exciting possibilities, it’s important to consider the unique requirements of e-commerce photography, where authenticity and accuracy play vital roles.
Wear your imaginationοΌ If imaginary shoes or a pair generated by yourself in Midjourney could be produced, would anyone customize them? Here are examples of a couple of Midjourney prompts used to generate these examples: Design a line of futuristic footwear inspired by the sculptural and innovative designs of Rei Kawakubo, incorporating advanced comfort and wearable tech features.
To earn more about AI applications in e-commerce enroll inΒ AI in E-Commerce – Online Course
