The weird and wonderful world of Google’s Deep Dream

The interest in artificial intelligence by the tech giants in Silicon Valley captured the (warped) imagination of the internet in June when Google introduced us to its DeepDream algorithm.

DeepDream is the result of Google’s research into image classification and uses an artificial neural network that mimics the interconnections between neurons in the human brain. Like human brains, the artificial neural network is capable of learning because it is able to respond to inputs.

Google’s researchers originally developed their neural network by training it with millions of images to teach it to discriminate between images. To understand how the neural network works, they turned the algorithm upside down and used it to iteratively enhance images. The results were stunning.

Early in July, Google released the algorithm as open source code and there are now many online tools available for anyone to join in on the fun. We put five of our favorite travel photos through the algorithm at dreamdeeply.com with amazing results.

Mapu’a ‘a Vaea Blowholes, Tonga

On most days, the blowholes are an impressive display as waves push water through holes in the coral reef and high into the air. This photo was taken on a calm and overcast day when the still water in the rock pools reflected the clouds and the sunlight struggling through the clouds.

Mapu’a ‘a Vaea Blowholes, Tonga

Here’s the original photo.

Sydney Opera House, Australia

Sydney Opera House is an iconic Australian building. This photo was taken on a bright sunny day and shows the white sails contrasted against the blue sky and the blue water of Sydney Harbour.

Sydney Opera House, Australia

Here’s the original photo.

Cotswalds Cottages, England

The Cotswalds region of England is famous for its picturesque villages and countryside. This photo of limestone cottages was taken in Bilsbury.

Cotswalds Cottages, England

Here’s the original photo.

Karon Beach, Phuket, Thailand

Karon Beach boasts a long stretch of fine white sand along the western coast of the south of Phuket Island. This photo was taken looking north from the southern end of the beach.

Karon Beach, Phuket, Thailand

Here’s the original photo.

Market Stall at La Boqueria, Barcelona, Spain

La Bouqueria is a vibrant market and one of Barcelona’s favorite tourist destinations. This photo shows a stall with candy, nuts, and dried fruits.

Market Stall at La Boqueria, Barcelona, Spain

Here’s the original photo.