As the photography industry evolves, staying ahead of the trends is key. From AI-enhanced imagery to the resurgence of raw, unedited portraits, here are the top 10 trends shaping the year ahead. Whether you’re a creative entrepreneur or working with one, these insights will help you stay relevant and inspired in a rapidly changing industry.
It feels like February was gone in a blink, doesn’t it? But as we get deeper into the year, I’m noticing some trends that I wanted to share with you. These are observations and predictions of what I believe you–as a creative entrepreneur or the powers that hire them–can expect to see in the coming months when it comes to photography.
While we always see passing fads or flashes in the pan in terms of style or approach, it’s always really important to stay engaged in what’s happening in the industry as a whole so you’re able to distinguish the trends that’ll fade overnight from those that really boast staying power. Personally, I find keeping up with latest photography trends to be a source of inspiration in my work, and I know so many other creative entrepreneurs and media outlets feel the same way.
So whether you’re looking to bring some new elements into your work as a photographer or you want to make sure that your media outlet is publishing imagery that’s current and relevant, here are the top 10 trends I’m seeing in the photography industry for this year.
- Commercialization of AI-Enhanced Photography: There’s no denying that AI is ubiquitous at this point, and we’re seeing that in commercial photography now too. Photographers are using innovative ways to implement AI-enhancement into their photography–and my prediction is that these are the creatives who will be considered for campaigns versus photographers who are unwilling–or unable–to use AI.
- Rawness: Okay, this is a pendulum swing from the first point, I know! But while we’re seeing a push for AI, that will also mean a pushback; meaning, there will be a significant market that demands minimally edited imagery. This will especially apply to portraiture, which clients will demand is real, raw, and bare–while still looking flawless. Authenticity and lack of post-production editing will make this type of imagery valuable.
- Retro Aesthetic: We’ve been seeing this trend for a while, but we’ll be seeing it even more when it comes to editorial–especially in portraiture and commercial work. That vintage, film-vibe photography will definitely continue becoming even more popular this year.
- Mixed-Media Campaigns: I don’t mean photo and video–I mean digital and analog. We’re going to see more campaigns that demand digital production, and in addition, a film production–something that’s raw and grainy, less polished. Clients will want both, and to me, that’s a great value-add for creatives who are able to work with analog technology.
- Growth in Commercial Campaigns: More companies are going to be hiring creatives for photos, videos, and mixed-media campaigns, so we’re going to be seeing an increased availability of work opportunities. I also predict that the dollar amount will be higher this year. Photography is a really popular service to hire right now and whether you’re a portrait photographer, commercial photographer, or wedding photographer, you’re going to see growth.
- Less Paid Editorial Work: Another swing from my last point, but this is an area that’ll experience famine this year. The magazine industry has been atrophying for years already, and while there has been some renaissance and rebirth in print, that surge doesn’t include photography. Print publications are relicensing old photography or using stock imagery (if you’re a stock photographer, take note of that!).
- Video as an Add-On: Whether it’s portraiture, wedding photography, or commercial photography, clients are increasingly demanding video as an add-on package to their still imagery requests. They want the packages they purchase to be more robust, so they can use both still images and video in their marketing materials or on social media.
- Colorful and Bold: From an aesthetics perspective, campaigns are leaning into high-contrast, bold imagery, with lots of color. These high-key photos and dramatic portraiture are so popular in campaigns right now, and that popularity is going to increase even more in commercial work, with requests for bold color on creative briefs skyrocketing lately.
- Immersive Imagery: Whether it’s in photography or video, clients are demanding an immersive experience. This is a growing trend especially for architectural or home photography, where we have the option to include 360-viewing, walkthroughs, or even VR services. Because the technology to create this type of imagery has been decreasing in price, the consumer demand for it is going to increase.
- Subscription-Based Models: I’ve been keeping an eye on this for a number of years, but now I’m really seeing it take hold. Photographers are now able to connect directly with potential clients via monthly subscriptions that can guarantee consumers get a specific amount of time or assets from that creative. It could be a photoshoot every month or bimonthly, but whatever it is, this way, clients are able to secure regular, updated content–which has never been more important than it is right now as we’re seeing clients demand an unprecedented amount of new content.
Want to hear more on this topic? Click here for my podcast episode on this year’s top photography trends.
Photography in Phoenix, Arizona
Staying on top of photography trends is the best way to make sure your visuals stand out and resonate with your audience. If you’re ready to create something amazing, let’s chat and book a photoshoot that brings your vision to life. Please feel free to contact me today.
