How can I automate replacing model images in hundreds of Photoshop PSD files? (JavaScript, UXP, AI, etc.)

Title

How can I automate replacing model images in hundreds of Photoshop PSD files? (JavaScript, UXP, AI, etc.)

Body

I manage a large number of Photoshop PSD files for an e-commerce website.

Due to licensing agreements with manufacturers, we have to replace all model images with new licensed images every year.

My current workflow is:

1. Open a PSD file.
2. Identify the model image being used.
3. Search the new year's image folder for the corresponding replacement image.
4. If a replacement exists, replace the model image.
5. If no replacement is available, remove the model image and replace it with a product-only image.
6. Save and close the PSD.

I have to repeat this process for hundreds of PSD files, so it's extremely time-consuming.

Current situation

• Photoshop 2026
• Some model images are Smart Objects, while others are placed JPEGs or EPS files.
• Layer names are not standardized.
• The image files provided by manufacturers have inconsistent filenames every year, so matching by filename is not reliable.
• Product numbers are available in our internal management system, but they are not always included in the image filenames.

Question

Is there any practical way to automate or semi-automate this workflow?

For example:

• Photoshop JavaScript (JSX) or UXP scripting
• Python working together with Photoshop
• AI or image recognition to match last year's images with this year's images
• Adobe Bridge or any other Adobe tools

I'm not necessarily looking for a fully automated solution. Even a workflow that significantly reduces the amount of manual work would be very helpful.

I'd really appreciate hearing from anyone who has solved a similar problem or has suggestions for a better workflow.