What happens when an experienced creative, designer, photographer and director dives into the world of AI? This week on Creatives with AI, host Lena Robinson chats with Simon Needham, a Yorkshire-born photographer, director, and adventurer now based in LA.

From co-founding ATTIK, a global design agency that changed the game, to crafting AI-powered visuals for conservation projects, Simon works hard to be ahead of the curve.

In this lively conversation, Simon shares how his career evolved from creating communications for Nike and PlayStation to capturing breathtaking wildlife and sports photography, and how AI tools have become a surprising companion in his creative process. Along the way, he talks about lessons learned from dismissing the internet back in the 90s, the difference between traditional photography and AI-generated images, and why staying curious is the best skill a creative can have.

Whether you’re curious about how AI is reshaping creativity or just love a good story about big ideas and bigger adventures, this episode has plenty to inspire.

Takeaways:

• AI’s Creative Revolution: Simon shares how tools like MidJourney and Runway ML are transforming visual storytelling.
• Lessons from the Past: Early mistakes with the internet taught Simon the importance of embracing new technology like AI.
• AI vs. Real Photography: AI can mimic visuals, but can it replicate the emotional depth of real-world photography?
• The Future of Creatives: Roles like art direction and prompt engineering will likely define the next wave of creative careers.
• Balancing Passion and AI: Simon balances adventurous photography with the efficiency of AI innovation.
• Storytelling Still Rules: Despite AI advancements, emotional storytelling remains key to resonating with audiences.

How to find Simon online:

• Website- simonneedham.com
• Instagram - @simonneedhamphotography | @human.kind.photography | @simon.fineart
• LinkedIn

People and Companies mentioned in this episode:

• ATTIK (now part of dentsu)
• dentsu: https://www.dentsu.com
• Nike: https://www.nike.com
• PlayStation: https://www.playstation.com
• Toyota: https://www.toyota.com
• MidJourney: https://www.midjourney.com
• Runway ML: https://runwayml.com
• OpenAI: https://openai.com
• Sam Altman CEO of OpenAI - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sam_Altman
• DeepMind: https://deepmind.com
• Google: https://www.google.com
• Coca-Cola: https://www.coca-cola.com
• Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com
• Affordable Art Fair: https://affordableartfair.com
• James Sommerville OBE: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-sommerville-obe-5971b756/

Host - Lena Robinson

//Stay Curious