Peer-Reviewed Open Access Journal

International Journal of Communication Development

The International Journal of Communication Development (IJCD) is a new journal devoted to the analysis of communication, mass media and development in a global context in both Indian and...

ISSN: 2231-2498 Quarterly English Since 2011
Current Issue

Vol. 15 No. 1 (2025)

Articles Vol. 15 Issue 3 & 4 Jan - June 2025
DOI 10.65301/ijcd.2025.15.3.4.8

Comparison of Artificial Intelligence-Generated vs Human-Generated Images in Online Advertising

Authors
Research Scholar at Faculty of Journalism & Mass Communication Manav Rachna International Institute of Research & Studies Faridabad Haryana
945 Views
484 Downloads
Published 2025-06-30
Abstract

Visual content selection is of utmost importance in the ever-changing realm of online advertising as it directly influences the ability to attract user attention and stimulate interaction. The emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) technology has led to the growing use of AI generated photographs and advertisements in conjunction with conventional human-generated pictures. The objective of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of AI-generated images compared to human-generated images in the context of online advertising, particularly on Google Ads. Through the examination of variables like as click-through rates (CTR), conversion rates, and user engagement, this study explores the influence of both picture formats. User perceptions and preferences are investigated using a qualitative approach that includes in-depth interviews and content data analysis. Research findings indicate that although AI generated graphics provide the flexibility to be scaled and personalized, human-generated images elicit a stronger emotional impact and authenticity. The present study provides pragmatic suggestions for advertisers and examines the ethical implications linked to AI generated visuals.

Keywords
Artificial Intelligence Human Generated Image Online Advertising User Engagement
References
  1. Brown, A., & Lee, M. (2021). The power of visual storytelling in advertising: Emotional engagement and brand loyalty. Journal of Marketing Psychology, 23(4), 456–475. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11299-021-09100-4
  2. Chen, Y., Li, Z., & Wang, X. (2022). The impact of AI-generated visual content on consumer behavior in digital marketing. Journal of Digital Marketing Research, 35(2), 123–140. https://doi.org/10.1080/10512114.2022.1001123
  3. Gupta, R., & Kumar, A. (2018). Personalized advertising using artificial intelligence: Enhancing click-through rates and conversions. Journal of Business Research, 80(2), 179–192. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jbusres.2018.05.009
  4. Johnson, D., & White, R. (2019). Ethical challenges in AI-driven marketing: Transparency, trust, and accountability. Business Ethics Quarterly, 29(3), 315–335. https://doi.org/10.1017/beq.2019.22
  5. Jones, M., & Johnson, S. (2020). AI versus human creativity in advertising: A comparative study of user engagement. Journal of Advertising Research, 60(1), 45–61. https://doi.org/10.2501/JAR-2020-001
  6. Smith, K. (2019). Visual content in digital advertising: The role of imagery in consumer engagement. Marketing Insights, 11(2), 89–101. https://doi.org/10.1080/2325408X.2019.1003045
  7. Wang, T., & Smith, R. (2020). Emotional resonance in AI-generated versus human-generated content: A critical analysis of advertising effectiveness. Journal of Consumer Research, 47(5), 1024–1041. https://doi.org/10.1093/jcr/ucz093
✓ Citation copied to clipboard