The constant evolution of social media, filters, and technology in general have revolutionized photography in the last decade. And while it’s important to focus on your aesthetic and style, some of these trends aren’t going away anytime soon. So let’s dive into what to look out for in the world of photography in 2019 and beyond.
A Resurgence in Film Photography
Film photography is coming back in a big way in 2019. There are many professional photographers who are turning back to film, whether it’s become a full-time or part-time profession. There’s even a resurgence in online communities that are dedicated to analog photographers.
Just as vinyl records have made a comeback in recent years due to their warmth of sound and tangible nature, film photography is about being able to hold something in your hands. This forces photographers to learn how light can affect the subject or scene, rather than using trial and error.
Smartphones are Competing with DSLR Cameras
DSLR cameras have become a bit of a niche camera. It’s an ideal option for photographers who are serious about their craft. That’s not to say DSLR cameras are heavily competing with the increasing smartphone technology and mirrorless cameras. Both of these gadgets are smaller and lightweight than DSLRs, which make them an ideal option for more casual photographers.
But DSLRs trump both of these choices with their improved battery life, ergonomics, and lens selection. It’s safe to say that the DSLR industry isn’t dying out anytime soon. It comes down to the photographer’s preference and how they like to shoot.
Videography is the New Photography
It’s now possible to record high-definition video on any camera, making it possible for most photographers to explore this format without any real investment in equipment, and because it’s all digital, it doesn’t cost anything to play around and see what works.
Showcasing video in your portfolio also makes you stand out among the competition and shows off a breadth of skills. In an era of social media where everyone has a short attention span, keeping people focused on your work for longer than a few seconds is a big factor in your creative success. Photographers who learn about video can broaden the scope of their services.
Authenticity & Diversity
StoryBlocks has noticed an increase in searches for authentic photography. They’re also noticing that there’s a demand for photography that’s diverse and inclusive. This is also playing out in pop culture and entertainment, and people are now more aware than ever that photography should more accurately represent the demographic makeup of the world—not just a few select groups.
StoryBlocks revealed that there’s a 185% increase in Islamic, a 176% increase in African, and a 121% increase in elderly photos. Aside from authenticity and diversity, searches for elections, Facebook, and weather has also increased as well. Photographers are trying to find new ways to monetize on this type of content. This shift towards authenticity can help you reshift your focus on what’s important and allows your creativity to shine through in new ways.
What’s Old is New Again
Shutterstock has noted that retro photography trends are taking center stage again. For example, contemporary art collages have received a 1,376% increase in search volume. This trend includes a combination of digital photos with magazine cutouts. Cutouts, edges, layers, and noises are also included in this trend.
Along with this retro trend is a resurgence in vintage photography. Shutterstock has noted there has been an increase in search terms like duotone, retrowave, and synthwave. We’ve also seen increases in search traffic for subjects such as Beyond Plastic, Everyday Futurism, Hypnotic, Kalamkari, Kawaii, Prism, and Rococo Romance.
Self-Expression & Brand Ethics
There’s also a strong humanitarian theme, especially when it comes to self-care, self-expression, and brand ethics. The holistic theme is strong in 2019. Some of the most popular trends include Brand Stand, Creative Democracy, Disruptive Expression, and Natural Instincts. Creative Democracy is focused on vivid colors while Natural Instincts captures the world around us as it is.
Interestingly enough, Adobe revealed that U.S. consumers are looking for products that are made from natural resources. Millennials prefer to shop from brands who speak out on social justice issues. Brands are finding ways to take a stand in our tumultuous political climate. This is helping young consumers be more aware and conscious when it comes to making shopping decisions.
Dramatic Landscapes
Minimalism may have met its match. This decades-long trend has been trumped by dramatic landscapes. There was a time that you couldn’t escape minimalism in photography. Now it’s all about photos of beautiful landscapes in locations both exotic and well-known.
