What happens when the content creators of today meet next-gen technology? In a world where artists are expected to produce, create, and share in real time, the tools they use become more important than ever. Whether it’s curating a visual narrative or capturing life as it unfolds, the demand for sharper tech is at an all-time high. Creativity has never been more public, and with that comes the necessity of keeping up the pace with the speedy standards of digital storytelling. Enter the Google Pixel 9 Pro, a device built for creators who need a little more than just a camera. And to show just how far it can take your craft, a pool of artists was challenged to create something that showcases their vision using nothing but the Google Pixel 9 Pro and its suite of tools. From photography to design, each talent pushed the limits of the phone’s AI-powered magic.
Whether it’s Mary Lennox’s gravity-defying fruit cloud or Meklit Fekadu’s soulful portraits, the artists used the Pixel 9 Pro to experiment and expand on their work in new ways. Foli Creppy’s self-portrait layers cultural and personal narratives through colorful details, while Antony Franz explores the intersection of human identity and technology. These intricate and intimate stories find an ally in the Pixel 9 Pro’s AI-driven features, which enhance their ability to narrate complex, meaningful visuals through a variety of different tools like ‘Magic Editor’ and ‘Add Me.’ Let’s take a closer look, shall we?
Studio Mary Lennox
“Fruit Cloud” is so tactile, yet dreamy. How do you approach blending the natural world with a more fantastical feel in your design?
It’s been a guiding principle in our studio’s work—creating compositions that feel very natural. This is achieved by pairing certain colors and textures together, often giving them an otherworldly and surrealistic character.
Your installation feels like it defies gravity. How did the Pixel 9 Pro help with this?
The fruit cloud was actually super heavy, which required different mechanical elements to be set in the studio to support the weight and hold the hanging piece. Using the Magic Eraser was the smoothest journey to creating this gravity-defying visual. It was so simple and easy to retouch the image with just a few swipes.
What was the biggest challenge with this project?
I think maintaining the integrity of the photo. AI editing provides almost unlimited options and opportunities to create the image you desire—this is, of course, super cool and exciting, but it is still very important for us to convey the authentic qualities of nature and those of our craft into the images we create.
Foli Creppy
From designing your outfit to curating the visuals, your attention to detail is apparent. How does your creative process evolve from concept to execution?
My creative process begins with an idea, often sparked by a fusion of personal experiences, photography, film, art references, and cultural narratives. I start by jotting down bullet points, allowing the concept to evolve naturally as I dive into the details—whether it’s designing the outfit or shaping the visual narrative. From there, it’s a journey of experimentation—testing different approaches and refining them as I progress. The process is fluid; even with a clear vision in mind, I always leave space for spontaneity during execution. It’s a balance between intention and intuition.
What role do flowers play in symbolizing your self-expression in this project?
For me, flowers symbolize growth, transformation, and the cyclical nature of life. This self-portrait reflects both my personal journey and cultural heritage, blossoming into something distinct. They serve as a metaphor for the internal evolution I’ve experienced as an artist, and they remind me that self-expression is about nurturing what lies within, allowing it to bloom outwardly. On a personal note, incorporating flowers into this piece also represents an act of kindness toward myself. I wanted to gift myself flowers because I deserve them.
How did the Pixel 9 Pro become your companion when making this piece of work?
The advanced camera and AI-driven features were instrumental in bringing my vision to life. The RAW data is rich in detail, which made the editing process smoother. This made translating my vision from concept to reality much easier while preserving the depth and complexity of the narrative.
Meklit Fekadu
Your work often centers on capturing the beauty and strength of women, especially from the BIPOC community. How do you use photography to do this?
Through my photography, I aim to empower us by offering authentic representation and helping to reclaim our narratives. I work closely with my subjects to capture their stories, emotions, and identities in a way that reflects their true selves. By portraying them as multi-dimensional individuals with strength, grace, and creativity, I want to challenge stereotypes and give us agency over how we are seen.
The Google Pixel 9 Pro tools allow you to build dreamlike surroundings. How did it feel to craft scenes that might not have been possible to shoot otherwise?
Using AI tools to create dreamlike surroundings felt incredibly liberating, especially since it allowed me to craft scenes that would have been way harder to shoot with a low budget or would have been very time-consuming. The creative freedom AI provides lets me bring ideas to life, enhancing storytelling and artistic expression in ways I hadn’t imagined before. While nothing can truly replace the authenticity of natural settings and real-world elements, it’s exciting to come close and push the boundaries of creativity with these new tools.
How has this tech changed your approach to photography, especially when it comes to being spontaneous and experimental?
The Pixel 9 Pro has reshaped how I approach photography by making advanced tech more accessible and intuitive. Without needing heavy gear or complicated setups, I can quickly capture moments and experiment with fresh ideas whenever inspiration hits.
Antony Franz
When you approach a piece like “Echoes of Tomorrow: Evolving Within the Algorithm”, how do you find the balance between visual beauty and the more unsettling aspects of technological evolution?
I personally see an imbalance between visual beauty and the unsettling aspects of technological development. Technology will continue to evolve, and the consequences of this evolution for humanity are still uncertain, except that, at some point, we will be compelled to adapt to the constant progress.
Your project explores the intersection of human identity and technology. How did using the Google Pixel 9 Pro push the boundaries of this concept, particularly with the Magic Editor feature?
Using the Magic Editor feature allowed me to bring my personal vision of the future to life in a way that felt both creative and limitless. I could visually construct ideas that go beyond traditional boundaries, where the merging of humanity and technology became a central theme. The tool gave me complete freedom to explore new possibilities, enabling me to craft entirely new visual realities. It truly pushed the boundaries of what I could imagine and express.
The choreography in your work feels like a visual dance between the organic and the digital. How did you capture the essence of movement with the Pixel 9 Pro’s tools?
It was important for me to work with abstract, contemporary movements and capture them using the long exposure camera feature. This feature stretches and distorts the movements, giving them an artistic touch that aligns perfectly with the creative direction I wanted to explore.
Discover more about the Google Pixel 9 Pro on google.com