I had a play with AI generated headshots yesterday. I was curious - I coach a lot of people for whom this could be useful.

Here's the deal. You pay around $50 USD. You take 15 or so selfies and submit them. 90 minutes later you're emailed 50 very different headshots to download.

It was fascinating...and also horrifying. Who is this woman that looks like me but not like me? In clothes I haven't selected (and would never wear). And who gave me hair extensions when I wasn't looking??

I must admit it was fun but I'm feeling kind of conflicted.

It was quick, they're professional (kind of), it's a lot less trouble and cost than a face-to-face photo shoot with a photographer. I can see how many clients could benefit.

But they're so fake.

Yes - I look (much!) younger. And probably more attractive. But it's not me.

And what happens to trust and connection when there is no authenticity - even in an image. For people to know me, they have to see me. The real me.

So it has it's place I guess, but it's not for me.