Claim: A photo shows a baby jumping out of an airplane and skydiving.
Fact: The photo doing the rounds on social media is an AI-generated image created by Facebook user Timothy J. Nemeth.
Fact or Fiction?
On 5 April 2023, Diva Magazine posted a photo on Instagram claiming that it shows a baby skydiving.
“#DivaReports: This is definitely the cutest and bravest baby on Earth to go skydiving! Just check out the absolutely adorable photos as proof!,” the post reads.
Soch Fact Check found the claim to be false. A Google search led us to an article by Al Arabiya News. The report published on 10 April 2023 stated that a Facebook user Timothy J. Nemeth posted the photos on 30 March.
It is accompanied by the following caption:
“Introducing the ultimate adventure for your little ones – Preschool Skydiving classes! Watch your child’s confidence soar as they take the leap and experience the thrill of freefalling with the safety of an expert instructor.
Not only is skydiving a fun and exciting activity for preschoolers, but it also has numerous benefits. Skydiving helps children develop problem-solving skills, spatial awareness, and physical coordination. It also boosts their self-esteem and self-confidence, making them feel like they can conquer anything they set their minds to.
And parents, you can rest assured knowing that your child’s safety is our top priority. Our instructors are highly trained and experienced, and our equipment is regularly inspected and maintained to the highest standards.
So why not give your child the experience of a lifetime with Preschool Skydiving classes? They’ll have a blast, learn valuable skills, and make memories that will last a lifetime. Sign up today!
#inspire”
Nemeth, however, posted a disclaimer in a comment, saying that “no real babies were harmed in this AI recreation of Babies jumping out of airplanes.”
Hence, the photos going viral on social media of babies skydiving are not real. AI-generated images of the babies look hyper-real and have inconsistencies such as unnatural teeth and fingers.
The user also shared other AI-generated images of babies climbing and hiking.
Virality:
Diva Magazine’s post gained significant traction, with more than 153,000 likes on Instagram.
The photo was also posted by the outlet on Facebook. It received 640 likes and 55 shares.
It can also be found here and here on Facebook and here, here and here on Instagram.
On Twitter, it was shared here, here and here.
Conclusion: The viral photo of a baby skydiving is not real. The AI-generated images were created by a Facebook user.