Claim:
An image showing a sports car parked on a burning street is a genuine photograph of the January 2025 Los Angeles wildfires.
Fact:
False. The image is a 3D-rendered artwork created by Italian digital artist Fabian Oberhammer using 3D modeling software.
Evidence:
- Origin of the Image:
The image was first posted on Instagram on January 9 by an account belonging to Fabian Oberhammer. The caption clearly stated: “Disclaimer: This is a 3D render.” - Confirmation by the Artist:
Oberhammer confirmed to Reuters that the image was created using 3D rendering software, not AI. He has been creating and posting digital art on Instagram since 2017. - Expert Analysis:
Thomas Chandler, an associate professor at Monash University, identified tell-tale signs of 3D rendering, such as overly sharp textures and unrealistic flames that fail to interact naturally with the surrounding environment. - Comparison Between 3D and AI-Generated Images:
While AI-generated images often fail in close-up details and exhibit inconsistencies, 3D-rendered images, like this one, are crafted with precision and deliberate attention to textures and lighting.
Conclusion:
Miscaptioned. The image circulating on social media as a real photo of the Los Angeles wildfires is a 3D-rendered artwork by Fabian Oberhammer. It does not depict the devastating January 2025 wildfires.
Social media users are advised to verify the authenticity of visuals before sharing them to avoid