Are you interested in following the latest photography trends?
In this article, I’ll tell you all about the top photography trends to watch this year.
And why not even try some of them?
Are you curious to know what photographers and artists are doing?
Let’s get started!
The Top 5 Photography Trends to Watch This Year
Photography, with its multiple facets, keeps attracting more enthusiasts and professionals.
From the latest AI technologies to the resurgence of historical processes, here are the top five photography trends to watch and try this year.
1. Generative AI
Credit: Mo Eid
Artificial Intelligence is at the center of the photographic discussion. While some photographers are still dubious about this technology, most of them are already embracing it in different parts of their practice.
Generative AI is revolutionizing photography. This technology allows you to create visuals from a textual description.
One of the most common ways to use it is by expanding the background of an image – AKA outpainting. You can also make realistic edits to a photograph, which is called inpainting.
However, it can also give free rein to the photographer’s creativity by generating both realistic and surreal images out of nowhere. You can also generate variations of certain pictures or copy the style of one image onto another.
Systems such as DALL-E 2 and Midjourney allow the generation of realistic and surreal art. This technology is also integrated into photo editing software such as Photoshop, which now has AI Generative Fill and AI Generative Expand tools.
2. Sustainability
Credit: Valdemaras D
More and more professionals and enthusiasts are seeking ways to reduce the environmental impact of their photographic practice.
One of the most important trends is the use of sustainable equipment. There is a clear shift in preference towards equipment built with recycled materials and designed to be energy-efficient.
Earth-conscious photographers are also implementing green business practices in their studios by reducing waste and opting for eco-friendly packaging.
However, environmental awareness as the subject of their photographic projects is one of the most important trends. Many artists and photodocumentalists are highlighting the consequences of human actions.
They’re also engaged in education and advocacy by imparting courses and workshops on eco-friendly photography and promoting good practices.
3. Drone Photography
Credit: Booshen Navaratnam
Even if drone photography has been around for quite some time, it’s becoming increasingly popular in 2024.
Technology advancement is one reason this is happening. Newer drones – even entry-level drones – have higher-quality cameras than they used to have.
This makes the equipment suitable for taking professional photographs and videos, even for people who are just starting out in this field.
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Drones also have enhanced flight control and stability, even if they are compact and lightweight. Most of them have automated obstacle avoidance and other features that have made them safer to fly.
Thanks to these improvements, more people have tried drone photography and discovered its creative possibilities.
As time passes, the law has caught up with technology, and countries have developed more clear-cut rules about drone usage. So, make sure you check your local regulations before diving into this photographic trend.
4. Self-Portrait Storytelling
Credit: Svetlana Zadiraka
This photography trend is all about personal narrative. Photographers are using self-portraits as a form of self-expression and to explore topics such as identity, mental health, or collective experiences from a subjective point of view.
Self-portrait storytelling is also therapeutic photography. This practice is often used to heal past trauma and empower the person practicing it.
One of the most appealing aspects of this photographic trend is the creative freedom. As they are both the photographer and model, the author can explore ideas, styles, and settings to convey emotion and reflect their personality.
Technology is also contributing by making it easier to integrate surreal elements to represent different states of mind.
Self-portrait storytelling allows photographers to connect with others and offer an intimate view of their world.
5. Alternative Photography Techniques
Credit: Asyapavlova
Vintage aesthetics have become very popular recently. Film photography has also experienced a resurgence. And, this year, alternative photography techniques are becoming a full-on trend.
Historical processes such as cyanotype, platinum printing, and wet plate collodion are popular techniques that are easily accessible to professionals and enthusiasts.
Sustainable techniques such as chlorophyll printing and anthotypes are very attractive because of their accessibility and low cost.
Because they’re becoming a trend, it’s also easy to find tutorials and educational resources online. So, many photographers are experimenting with creative ideas and coming up with exciting results.
