Photographer Chronicles Rise of Big Tech in San Francisco Amidst AI Boom
San Francisco, often referred to as the tech capital of the world, has witnessed a remarkable transformation in recent years. The rise of big tech companies, such as Google and Facebook, and the booming field of artificial intelligence (AI) have shaped the city’s landscape and culture. Renowned photographer Laura Morton has been capturing this unprecedented phenomenon through her lens, documenting the people behind the technology that is changing the world.
Morton embarked on her photo project in 2012, when the discussions about the dominance of big tech in San Francisco were at their peak. Drawing inspiration from the historic moments of the city, she described her project as a combination of the gold rush and the summer of love. According to Morton, San Francisco became really a city in the gold rush, and she sees her work as documenting another significant moment in the city’s history.
Having spent nine years reporting on early-stage startups, Morton has now shifted her focus to the world of AI. She has observed a change in the mindset of the people working on AI technologies. Unlike their predecessors, who were solely driven by technical advancements, today’s AI builders are more interested in understanding the impact of their creations on humanity as a whole. Morton believes that this shift is because AI is essentially teaching computers to emulate human behavior, and those involved in its development are genuinely interested in humanity.
Recognizing her talent and dedication, Morton was awarded the prestigious 2022 Pierre & Alexandra Boulat Award. She has also received support from the Magnum Foundation Emergency Fund, allowing her to continue her important work. Through her photographs, Morton captures the essence of the individuals behind the technological revolution, showcasing their humanity and how they shape the future.
Morton’s project not only chronicles the rise of big tech in San Francisco but also offers a glimpse into the people-driven AI boom. By exploring the intersection of technology and humanity, she brings attention to the individuals who are building the future and reminds us of the impact their work has on society. As the AI industry continues to expand, Morton’s photographic documentation serves as a valuable historical record, capturing a pivotal moment in time.
As Laura Morton’s photo project unfolds, we are presented with an intimate perspective of the individuals who are shaping the world we live in. Through her lens, we gain a deeper understanding of the city’s transformation and the human stories behind the technology. With each photograph, Morton captures the spirit of innovation and the lasting impact of the AI boom on San Francisco, solidifying her place as one of the leading chroniclers of this remarkable era.
