Google launched several new camera features incorporating AI into its photos during the Made by Google event yesterday, including a feature allowing for 100x zoom. However, one AI-powered feature, called Camera Coach, focuses on enhancing photos before they’re taken, avoiding post-editing AI enhancements. As someone skeptical of AI-generated imagery, could this be the perfect combination of technology and human input I’ve been waiting for?
How Camera Coach works
Credit: Michelle Ehrhardt
Many haven’t taken photography classes and aren’t familiar with basics like “the rule of thirds” and framing subjects properly. For those who struggle with guiding others to take good photos, Camera Coach is designed for you.
Pixel 10 users can point their device at a subject, tap a button in the Camera app, and the phone’s AI helps plan shots. The AI provides suggestions, and by selecting one, it guides you through taking the picture without modifying the final image with AI.
Come up with ideas for new photos
Credit: Michelle Ehrhardt
Camera Coach mainly helps with framing and zooming. However, it also offers “Get Inspired” suggestions highlighted in blue, using generative AI to envision photos from different angles. These suggestions depend on what the camera lens sees, so some shots might not be possible.
If none of the suggestions appeal, a refresh button offers more options. During a controlled demo, “Get Inspired” accurately predicted surrounding areas, though this was in a simple environment.