# Canadian photographers make 1980s kitsch portraits without AI

> Two Canadian photographers create viral 1980s-style portraits without AI, using humor and affordability.
- Title: Canadian photographers make 1980s kitsch portraits without AI
- Summary: Two Canadian photographers create viral 1980s-style portraits without AI, using humor and affordability. Leeanna and Aaron DiGruccio take high-quality bad…
- Keywords: leeanna digruccio, aaron digruccio, m4ll ph0t0, 1980s portraits, floating head, canada, ai photography, festival photography, ca$25, Canadian, photographers, make
- Source: Digital Camera World — https://digitalcameraworld.com/photography/portrait-photography/these-two-pro-canadian-photographers-take-high-quality-bad-photos-without-turning-to-ai-the-response-to-their-1980s-kitsch-portraits-been-overwhelming
- Published: 2026-10-10T13:00:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: leeanna digruccio, aaron digruccio, m4ll ph0t0, 1980s portraits, floating head, canada, ai photography, festival photography, ca$25
## 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.
## Key takeaway

Leeanna and Aaron DiGruccio take high-quality bad photos in 1980s mall style without AI, costing CA$25 per person.