2024 is upon us and as the world takes another trip around the sun, so too does the ever-evolving world of photography. Technology, styles and human perspective will continue to advance and adapt, having a profound impact on trends in all areas of the arts. Curious photographers who are intent on remaining relevant will be hungry for an insight into whatever it is that’s on the horizon for 2024. Let’s take a peek.
Augmented Reality
Augmented Reality (AR) is becoming a huge industry so it was only a matter of time before it impacted photography. The arrival of AR in photography means that the boundaries of the photograph are about to be blown open with the birth of surreal and interactive imagery. The line between the real world and photography is about to be more blurred than ever before.
Drone Photography
Drone photography is an efficient and oftentimes affordable method of capturing the previously elusive shots from the sky. As drone technology advances, so too will drone photography allowing for even more breathtaking aerial land and cityscapes.
Unfiltered and Authentic Images
People are more tech savvy than ever before and can quickly spot a filtered, edited, AI generated image. Instagram has heralded a generation of flawless images and photographers are simply getting tired of the uniform style that seems to strive for perfection. Candid shots, natural lighting, and a restrained use of digital post-processing are gaining popularity. People want to see more genuine and relatable images.
Vintage and Retro
As the world hurtles forward in its most technologically sophisticated era, people are looking back. The romantic idealism of times gone by is too seductive to resist. Old world charm, classic techniques and retro aesthetics are now being captured through the unique lens of the modern gaze. The power of nostalgia may be old, but it's new for 2024.
Documentary Photography
Social and environmental activism has never been more documented and in an age with so much to protest about, photographers are busy. Climate change, social justice, and human rights documentary photography will play an important role in raising awareness and driving change.
Mobile Photography
The capabilities of camera phones are rapidly growing in sophistication and indeed, popularity. Everyone with a phone is a photographer and in this visual age of digital storytelling, it has no sign of slowing down.
360-Degree Interactive Photography
Not to be mistaken for AR photography, 360-degree photography is an interactive method of capturing images and has been embraced by industries including real estate, tourism, and event planning. This interactive form of photography immerses viewers in the scene, as though they are part of it.
Light and colour
As technology becomes more intuitive, photographers have more freedom to experiment with light and colour. 2024 promises to witness new and unusual lighting setups and vibrant colour palettes.
Integrating These Photography Trends
In order to stay ahead of the curve in photography, it is important to maintain a child-like curiosity and to shy away from the fear of experimentation. Fail, fail again, fail better! Play with trends and see where it takes you. You may love or loathe retro and colour but you won’t know until you try. Trends are derived from social generalisations and while they reflect society at large, there is nothing stopping a photographer from putting their personal stamp on it. Trends are meant to inspire, not to instruct.
As you grow as a person, you also grow as a photographer but if you don’t take stock of where you are in relation to the world around you, there is always a risk of being left behind. To learn is to live and photographers who wish to continue to grow, will need to continuously sharpen their skills and remain up to date with new approaches and techniques.
The 2024 photography trends are as diverse as they are exciting with something for every photographer to choose from. From the high-tech magic of augmented reality and drones to the nostalgic allure of vintage, these trends provide a glimpse into the future of this ever-changing art form.
Our Photography Courses will help you improve your photography skills
With our cutting-edge courses, you can enter the world of professional photography. Our courses have been expertly designed to incorporate timeless techniques. Whether you're a beginner who wants to learn the fundamentals or an experienced photographer eager to improve your skills, our courses provide a rich learning experience led by industry professionals. With our hands-on approach, you will gain practical experience in a variety of styles and techniques. Join us at the British Academy of Photography, where you can take your passion for photography to the next level.