Integrating AI Concept Art: Workflow Tips to Avoid Disrupting PD Artists?

Hey everyone,

I’m a Key Grip currently on a sci-fi indie feature, mostly shooting on an ALEXA Mini with a couple of AMIRA units for B-cam. The production designer has been experimenting with Midjourney for some early concept art, and honestly, some of it looks incredible. The director is really keen on pursuing a few of these AI-generated visuals for sets and props.

My concern, and what I'm genuinely trying to understand, is how to bring these AI concepts into a traditional production design workflow without stepping on the toes of our incredibly talented human artists. We've always had a collaborative process, from sketches to renders, and I don't want this new tool to feel like it's sidelining anyone. So far, it’s mostly just been inspiration, but I can see it becoming more central.

Has anyone on larger or smaller sets found a good way to integrate AI concept art, perhaps as a starting point or brainstorming tool, that ultimately supports and elevates the human designers, rather than making them feel dictated to? How do you make it a seamless part of the existing creative pipeline?