How to Tell if an Image or Video Online is Real
- Bright Concierge
- Aug 7
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 11
Would it be surprising to learn that this image is fake? Look at the book's odd binding.
None of the images in this article are real. They're made by Artificial Intelligence (AI), a technology that can generate strikingly realistic photos and videos from scratch quickly and with little effort.
It’s a powerful tool with genuinely legitimate and valuable uses in education, design, and entertainment.
There's also some risk to it. We don't want to be influenced by convincing things that are not actually real. Fabricated information has the power to spread rapidly and mislead. That's why verification of authenticity is increasingly important.
In this article, we'll share the subtle patterns and inconsistencies to look for when weighing whether or not a photo or video is real. When we're able to recognize common indicators of AI-generated photos and videos, we can make informed judgements.
What signs indicate a photo or video online is fake?
A uniform setting
Does the scene look unusually neat and arranged? Look at the evenly spaced people with similar faces, smooth skin, smiles, and repeating clothing colors.
Small details that are just wrong
Does the scene appear to struggle with fine details, making things look off or distorted? Look at the hands.
Lighting that's too even or odd
Does the scene look evenly lit or oddly lit from multiple angles, with minimal shadows or light direction? Observe how the trees cast a shadow, but the statue does not.
Activity that's disingenuous
Does the scene look posed, staged, or unnatural? If it's not a practical activity that someone would engage in, it could be fake. See how it's being conveyed that the extra-large cat is a wooden sculpture?
A story that feels extreme or exaggerated
Does the photo or video illicit shock or other strong emotion? Rare, unbelievable or “once-in-a-lifetime” moments are rarely captured so well. Look at this strange interaction between a gorilla and king cobra.
Here are some additional examples of images that look real but are actually fake.
Can social media be treated as a primary source of truth?
Social media is a blend of reliable and unreliable information. Therefore, it should never be treated as a primary source of information or truth. It’s usually the photos and videos that spark strong emotions which get promoted online, whether they’re accurate or not. This creates a system where sensational information often spreads faster than what is real and verified. Social media platforms are built to maximize people's engagement, not truth.
Is artificial intelligence being used in the news and public topics?
AI has been used to alter speeches, produce fake interviews, and create misleading videos.
This small but telling example shows that AI is being used in public leadership and government communication. During a legislative speech, a politician unintentionally revealed that artificial intelligence had helped write his remarks.
At 18 seconds, he says, “Here’s a more natural, flowing version of that section that reads like a legislative speech rather than a series of short points.” The sentence was an instruction from the AI tool, not a line intended to be part of the speech.
What practical steps can we take to stay aware?
Before something is trusted, pause to review the overall scene. Does it feel natural or overly perfect? Do people and objects look off?
Be cautious if the video or photo feels shocking or emotionally intense.
When in doubt, see if the same story appears from a trusted source.
With the skills to spot AI-generated fakes it's easier to make informed choices about what to believe online.
Some online product ads are created with artificial intelligence, and it can be difficult to tell whether a product, or the company selling it, is legitimate.
If you would like help researching an item before you buy, contact us. We can take a closer look with you and help verify that the product and seller are real.
Call (602) 612-9000 or email hi@brightconcierge.com
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