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3 Exciting New Trends in Photography

As the world around us changes, so do the trends in photography—and, so far, 2017 has been quite a year of change. Several of the newest trends in photography reflect our evolving society and the technology and media that surrounds us every day. Below, we explore three of the strongest trends in photography this year as well as how and why these trends have risen to the top.

1. Bright, Vivid Colors
Color is back with a splash. In recent years, one of the most common trends in photography has been vintage-style, faded or muted photos, thanks in large part to the abounding popularity of social media image filters. In 2017, however, we’ve seen the resurgence of bold color choices in imagery, often shown in abstract, striking, and unconventional ways. Whether artists are using one intense hue or an attention-grabbing combination of contrasting colors, we love the visual interest and spark this trend has brought to this year’s photography scene.

2. Authenticity
Consumers—tired of glossy, overly edited advertising and media—have long demanded authenticity in imagery. Finally, brands are responding with more raw, unpolished visuals featuring more relatable, diverse models, with photos that aim to portray a peek into someone’s personal life instead of a meticulously contrived scene. With this trend, photography draws on documentary aesthetics and photojournalism to fearlessly capture honest, candid emotions, actions, and stories—some of which are surprising viewers to attention and all of which better resonates with regular consumers, particularly those from younger generations.

One aspect of the authenticity movement perhaps has evolved from technology enabling us to make photography more personal and spontaneous. With drones, GoPro cameras, and even Snapchat and Instagram Stories, it’s easier than ever to capture new perspectives and share our point of view with unfiltered and unrehearsed images that practically immerse viewers inside one another’s experiences.

3. Diverse Societal and Political Representations 
With controversy seeming to constantly surround governments around the globe, imagery is being employed as powerful tool to document, share, and even invoke protests, advocacy, and political movements. Such imagery has the ability to unite like-minded individuals and shed light on important topics. 

Similarly, today’s imagery is increasingly inclusive of various groups, cultures, and societies, with well-rounded, nuanced depictions slowly replacing oversimplified stereotypes. For example, Getty Images describes the “Gritty Woman” as one of today’s emerging trends in photography—a woman “more concerned with what she can do than how she should look” and  one who is “not to be crossed, overlooked or underestimated.”

Study Established Techniques and the Latest Trends in Photography
As new technology and social platforms arise, the trends in photography may change as photographers use these new tools to experiment and explore their creativity. Yet, no matter what the current trends in photography are, a photographer needs a strong foundation in fundamentals like lighting, composition, color, and design to succeed. With the right knowledge, proper training, and a passion for the field, anyone can evolve with the times and perhaps even set new trends in photography. To start preparing for your photography career, explore the Digital Photography programs at The Art Institute of Pittsburgh—Online Division today.