Can a Neural Network Output an Image?

Image classification of a large cat with a neural network

Neural networks are popular for image processing in today’s world. It can produce images as the output layer in a machine learning model. The output layer has all the desired features that you want in your image. Once you learn how to do it, there are endless possibilities for outputting an image through a convolutional …

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Why is the VGG Network Commonly Used?

A diagram of the VGG-A convolutional neural network architecture

Visual Geometry Group (VGG) is a team of researchers at Oxford University that produced a common convolutional neural network (CNN) architecture. This now-famous CNN is also called VGG and became popular in 2014 after beating the famous 2012 AlexNet in a competition. If you want to know why VGG is so common and what makes …

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What is Data Augmentation in a CNN? Python Examples

A picture of the cabin on Mt Cabot with data augmentation markings

Algorithms can use machine learning to identify different objects and classify them for image recognition. This evolving technology includes using Data Augmentation to produce better-performing models. Machine learning models need to identify an object in any condition, even if it is rotated, zoomed in, or a grainy image. Researchers needed an artificial way of adding …

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Should You Always Use Dropout?

A plot of the Rosenbrock Valley optimization challenge function

Wondering if dropout is a good option for your network? Dropout regularization is a great way to prevent overfitting and have a simple network. Overfitting can lead to problems like poor performance outside of using the training data, misleading values, or a negative impact on the overall network performance. You should use dropout for overfitting …

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What is Content Loss in Neural Style Transfer?

A photo of the Liberty Bell style transferred into Matisse's Woman with a Hat

Neural style transfer is the ability to separate the style and content of images using a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN). In neural style transfer, you have endless possibilities of applying an entirely different style to an existing image. The style can be anything you like, from cubism, surrealism, impressionism, or something of your own creation. …

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Style Guide: What Is Salvador Dali’s Style?

The Lincoln Memorial style transferred into the style of Dali's The Melting Watch

Salvador Dali’s special style is incredibly influential and has inspired artists for decades. If you’re looking for inspiration for your art, to use Dali in your style transfers, or just trying to understand why he’s famous, this article covers all aspects of Dali’s famous style. Salvador Dali used surrealism and symbolism in his painting style. …

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Style Guide: What is Mark Rothko’s Technique?

A picture of the Sears Tower in Chicago style transferred to the style of Mark Rothko's Untitled from 1952

Mark Rothko is a controversial artist that provides an interesting example for studying color in artwork. Why do people continue to find his paintings so compelling? This article will look at the fascinating style of Mark Rothko, revealing how he became one of the most celebrated American artists ever and the reasons behind his lasting …

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Style Guide: How Does Monet Use Color?

A photo of the Statue of Liberty style transferred to the style of Monet's San Giorgio Maggiore at Dusk

If you’re looking for inspiration for your own paintings or finding the best paintings for style transfers – check out this Style Guide for Monet. Color is a critical factor in a painting’s style. How did Monet use it in his masterpieces? As a general rule, Monet used color to highlight momentary impressions of real …

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Style Guide: How Did Jackson Pollock Paint?

An image of the Sphinx style transferred to the style of Jackson Pollock's Mural

Understanding Jackson Pollock’s painting technique is crucial for using his style in your artwork or style transfers. I poured through all of Pollock’s paintings to find the best secret drips of style and technique. As a general rule, Jackson Pollock painted using a technique he pioneered called Drip painting. Instead of using a traditional brush …

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Style Guide: Is Van Gogh an Impressionist or Expressionist?

Van Gogh's Starry Night that is an example both of impressionism and expressionism

If you’re looking for inspiration for your Style Transfers, there’s no style as iconic as Van Gogh’s. This article is a detailed guide to everything about his style. Since he painted at the turn of the century, people often confuse if his style is impressionism or expressionism. I was confused originally too! I’ll answer all …

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