From Digital Camera World · · 1m 30s
Canadian photographers make 1980s kitsch portraits without AI
Two Canadian photographers create viral 1980s-style portraits without AI, using humor and affordability.
In brief
Two Canadian photographers create viral 1980s-style portraits without AI, using humor and affordability. Leeanna and Aaron DiGruccio take high-quality bad photos in 1980s mall style without AI, costing CA$25 per person. Originally reported by Digital Camera World.
M4LL PH0T0 duo creates 1980s portraits
Leeanna and Aaron DiGruccio, Canadian photographers, make 1980s mall-style portraits without AI.
Their 1980s kitsch style goes viral
Recreating 1980s mall studio portraits has become a viral AI trend, but they do it traditionally.
They started from boredom
Leeanna worked for CPI in the US before the company went under, and they stayed for 12 hours to ensure photos were delivered.
They use humor in portraits
Guests choose from three photos with floating heads, and some bring pets or deceased loved ones for portraits.
Sessions cost CA$25 per person
A typical session takes 90 seconds and costs CA$25, matching old Sears advertisements.
They use modern tech for 1980s style
They use Sony A7 IV bodies and 24-70mm f/2.8 lenses, far from 1980s tech but creating authentic portraits.
They believe AI shouldn't be in art
Leeanna says AI systems have caused tragic outcomes and they believe AI should not be in art.
They have a growing fanbase
People travel from Ontario and the US to get portraits, and the booth has long lines at festivals.
They run tech and photography businesses
Aaron works in IT support and Leeanna as an industrial engineer, including installing Apple devices for Artemis II.
The headline
Leeanna and Aaron DiGruccio take high-quality bad photos in 1980s mall style without AI, costing CA$25 per person.
