News // 43 News by Monica Menez
Following the very exciting and instructive online beginner’s workshop on AI image generation this October, we are now continuing with the online course for advanced users on 9 November. In this next one, photographer Monica Menez and retouching expert Ivonne Veith will teach you advanced image generation techniques.
This course will cover advanced commands in Midjourney, such as cref, sref, and seeds, to create characters and achieve consistent character design. It will then explore advanced tools, including AI upscaling technologies and programs like Magnific AI, as well as their applications. Finally, the course will demonstrate how to refine projects using Photoshop.
Another key focus of the course is the application of AI in film production, introducing tools such as Dream Machine and Runway. Through practical examples and detailed explanations, this course helps participants expand their skills in these areas.
Course Content
Basics of AI Upscaling Technologies
- Introduction to upscaling
- Overview of programs such as Magnific AI
Face Transfer Techniques
- Introduction to Faceswap
- Practical applications and case studies
Advanced Commands
- Consistent character creation in Midjourney
- Use and benefits of cref, sref, and seeds
- Practical exercises in using these commands
Introduction to AI and Film
- Use of AI in film production
- A quick look at Dream Machine and Runway
- Case studies and practical examples
About the speakers : Monica Menez, photographer, and Ivonne Veith, image retouching expert, founded the AI Collective ‘Synthetic Styles’ to explore the world of generative image creation. Together they have developed this workshop especially for photographers to share their knowledge.
Image Generation: Advanced Techniques with Midjourney & Co with Monica Menez and Ivonne Veith Online Workshop 9 November 2024, 10 AM–4 PM, Tickets: Standard: €290 BFF Members: €220
05.11.2024
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International photographer and filmmaker MONICA MENEZ employs AI creatively for her visionary projects and that very successfully. At the Orgatec 2024 trade fair in Cologne, the AI-based concept that she developed for Object Carpet and Ippolito Fleitz Group became a reality.
“I had the opportunity to design the visual world for the new sustainable DUO CARPETS collection and to create an exhibition experience that connects digital art and design in an entirely new way. Four AI-generated motifs, showcasing the character of the collection in a futuristic manner, were front and center – brought to life through augmented reality! I owe this project to the amazing Tilla Goldberg! Without her vision and support, this project wouldn't have been possible,” says Monica Menez.
The Artivive app gave visitors to opportunity to scan the motifs and gain insights into MONICA MENEZ’s creative process through short AR films. The project demonstrates how AI and creativity can go hand in hand.
“Our collaboration with OBJECT CARPET continues! For two years, we’ve been working on a new collection together based on OBJECT CARPET’s new sustainability concept. Before the official launch at BAU 2025, we’re showing a sneak peek at Orgatec. Freshly developed, large-format samples will be on display at the booth. And the motifs for the campaign come straight from the AI sandbox of fashion photographer Monica Menez,” says Ippolito Fleitz Group.
With the development of DUO Carpets, OBJECT CARPET has paved the way for its circular vision and is actively engaging in waste reduction and resource conservation. After more than 10 years of development, the mono-material carpet NEOO, made from 100% polyester, was introduced in 2022, and the DUO technology is now consistently pursued. By 2026, the entire product range will transition to this innovative technology, which offers designers complete creative freedom with polyamide and polyester.
31.10.2024
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Monica Menez, known for her quirky and unusual visual concepts, is once again focusing on innovation and AI. For Swiss magazine SCHÖN!, Monica created a photo spread that asks questions you might not have even thought of: **Baguette anyone?**
The spread created with the assistance of artificial intelligence combines avant-garde style with a pinch of absurd humor – exactly what Monica is all about. With her tongue-in-cheek approach, she stages the seemingly mundane and transforms it into visual art. A baguette becomes a symbol of something much bigger – a piece of everyday culture that, in Monica’s world, becomes a stage for creativity and eccentricity.
If Monica’s personal path to AI had a name, it could be something along the lines of ‘Between Frustration and Fascination’. “I have always been someone who likes trying new things – which is why making the switch from photography to film has been so much fun for me. I love to constantly evolve the way I work and to experiment.
When I first started experimenting with artificial intelligence in early 2023, I was, however, deeply disappointed. My initial attempts at Midjourney were nothing short of frustrating – the results were too unpredictable, and I couldn’t express my ideas the way I wanted. So I put the tool away and didn’t touch it for a year.
Then, in early 2024, I took a new shot at it – et voilà: thanks to a lot of updates, so much had changed. Suddenly, I realized the enormous potential AI actually has. Since then, I have spent nearly 500 hours with it, trying to figure out how to generate images in my signature style. Slowly but surely, I think I have gotten the hang of it. For me, AI is now just another creative tool I like to experiment with.
In March 2024, Monica Menez and retoucher Ivonne Veith founded the collective ‘SyntheticStyles. We wanted to know, what exactly is her mission? “Showing creatives – above all photographers – how they can use AI in their work. For the beginning of next year, we’re planning a small but exquisite SyntheticStyles Festival in Stuttgart – there will be exhibitions, talks, and plenty of opportunities for exchange and networking.
Of course, I also see the challenges that AI brings with it for our industry. Big changes are definitely coming. Which is why Ivonne and I have recently held a keynote for the BFF, which we called ‘Between Skepticism and Innovation – Why Photographers Should Try AI’. Our goal: we want to encourage photographers and creatives to explore this brave new world before deeming AI a threat.”
17.10.2024
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