# iStock's AI-free promise

> iStock claims photos are AI-free but pushes AI editing tools immediately.
- Title: iStock's AI-free promise · Digital Camera World | Shortify
- Summary: iStock claims photos are AI-free but pushes AI editing tools immediately. iStockPhoto promises no AI-generated images but encourages users to modify photos…
- Keywords: istock, ai editing, stock photos, photography, getty images, human-made photos, iStock's, AI-free, promise, Digital Camera World
- Source: Digital Camera World — https://digitalcameraworld.com/photography/websites-and-stock-photography/always-ai-free-says-istock-before-immediately-encouraging-you-to-ai-edit-its-photos
- Published: 2026-10-10T17:30:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: istock, ai editing, stock photos, photography, getty images, human-made photos
## iStock's AI-free claim
iStockPhoto promises all images are human-made with no AI involvement.

> iStockPhoto doesn't allow any AI-generated visuals in our library. Every visual at iStock is crafted through human expertise, creativity, and ingenuity.
## iStock's AI editing prompt
iStock encourages users to customize photos using AI tools after purchase.

> customise this image
## Background removal issue
AI background removal often leaves incomplete results, like kitchen worktops.

> Removing the background of a kitchen leaves you with a worktop in the middle, and not much else.
## Plant color change
AI can change plant colors but sometimes replaces them with different plants.

> Change the plant to green
## Bath color modification
AI turns baths pink but creates convincing results that feel unnatural.

> turn the bath pink
## iStock's dual approach
iStock straddles AI skeptics and users by offering both AI tools and human-made photos.

> our photos aren't AI, don't worry. But why don't you use AI with our help if you want to?
## Key takeaway

iStockPhoto promises no AI-generated images but encourages users to modify photos with AI tools.