Today, the photography industry is experiencing a period of rapid change. Technology, editing trends, and artistic differences are all making their mark. Daniel Doyle Pleasantville explains the current changes in the photography industry and how they will affect photographers in the future.
Retouching and Filters
In today’s photography industry, there is a trend away from filters and retouching. Today’s style shows the image in its unaltered state, incorporating any blemishes on the subject. Portrait photography, in particular, is moving away from an idealized vision of the issue and embracing the truth of each image.
Landscape photography is also experiencing a reduction in the amount of editing used for each image. Expressing the beauty of each scene as the camera captures it is the goal of many of today’s landscape photographers.
DSLR Taking a Back Seat
While they have been the industry standard for many years, DSLR cameras are beginning to replace smartphones and other mobile devices. Smartphone cameras are now highly sophisticated and have some features that DSLR cameras cannot match. DSLR will continue to be an essential supplement to the photographer’s toolbox, but it may slip from the number one position in the photographer’s gear bag.
The Rise of Video
Still, images remain essential for many applications, but there is a strong trend toward video. Social media platforms like Instagram favor video content over photographs, and other websites follow suit. More still, photographers are learning how to construct aesthetically pleasing videos and use them to supplement their work in still photos.
Optimizing Images for Mobile Display
Today, photographers need to use more vertical orientation because a large population primarily or exclusively uses mobile platforms to browse the Internet and access social media. All images displayed online need to be optimized for mobile display.
360-Degree Shots
Inspired by smartphone features, the 360-degree photograph is becoming more important throughout the industry. 360-degree shots allow the photographer to turn around and show the entire field of vision from their perspective. It is beneficial for commercial photography. Real estate and product photographers have benefited from 360-degree photography, but landscape photographers are also beginning to use it.
Cloud Storage
Regarding the technical side of the industry, there have also been several significant changes. Cloud storage supplements the vast array of backup memory cards and hard drives most professional photographers possess. While it is not recommended that any photographer exclusively use the cloud to back up their photos, it can be an excellent and secure alternative that facilitates mobile sharing.
Macro Photography
More photographers are using high-tech solutions to take macro photographs. Macro photography involves taking close-up shots of plants, insects, and other natural subjects. Macro photography fascinates viewers and can open up new horizons in an artistic and professional sense.
Mirrorless Cameras
Mirrorless camera technology first appeared in the mid-2000s. They can shoot faster, offer more image stabilization, and provide more discreet photo-taking. They have begun to replace DSLR cameras in many applications.
However, mirrorless cameras do have a few drawbacks. They have smaller sensors than DSLR cameras, meaning they are less effective in low light. Their autofocus systems are also less accurate.
Educational Courses
In the past, photography was a discipline where experienced practitioners kept their secrets. Today, photographers share more of their expertise through online masterclasses and instructional courses. Understanding how photography works rather than simply approaching the discipline through trial and error means more quality photographers for clients.
Drone Photography
One of the most exciting advances in photo technology is the advent of drones. Drones can get up in the air and capture a bird’s eye view of the subject. They are especially beneficial in large outdoor settings like weddings and real estate photography.
Photographers who use drones must be adequately trained to get the best shots. They must also be familiar with the rules and regulations of utilizing a drone safely and by the FAA’s directives.
Greater Authenticity
Today, the world is in a period of turmoil. Photographers are searching for ways to make their work more authentic and use many techniques to help. They are concerned with showing the full spectrum of human emotion and are aware of social issues.
Experiencing Change in Photography
These technical and artistic trends will continue to impact 2021 substantially and beyond. Daniel Doyle Pleasantville recommends photographers do everything possible to stay on top of industry trends. Adapting to the newest forms of technology will help photographers compete with their peers and provide the best possible results for clients.