This year, we have published several articles on the photo industry at large, events and conferences, and emerging technologies like AI. Our staff has attended in person or virtually, almost every named event. Here’s a quick take on some trends we are seeing.
Conferences and events
This year demanded and saw innovation and evolution from various show, conference and event producers. Not every traditional expo will survive. But those producers that held their events this year, whether in person or virtually, are reporting strong attendance. Indeed, not at pre-COVID levels, but growing nonetheless! Smaller, more boutique events that are shorter in duration, have higher attendee engagement. More business-focused education are leading the comeback. Hands-on workshops, seminars, and virtual summits are selling out, and we feel that trend will continue.
The percentage of new first-time attendees at these events — local, regional, or national — is uplifting. These unique individuals see a chance to apply their creative storytelling energies through their photography or video endeavors. They are eager to learn and use their talents. Marketers be aware, this is a new audience and largely unaware of the legacy players, for better or worse. These visual storytellers are indeed a vital component of this resurgence.
Video in all aspects is a hot topic
Video may be the core of the photo industry’s comeback. The growing demand for video spans all aspects of our industry, from gear to education and market/client demand. Think video; staying relevant in your niche will undoubtedly demand it.
When it comes to smartphones vs. cameras, it seems we have hit a state of coexistence! We have seen how phones have impacted our lives at every level and enhanced our passion for taking photos and sharing memories. But while shooting on phones has been the gateway drug for many creatives, phones have also fueled the next generation of storytellers who realize their limitations. The demand for video training, books and new and used gear is exploding. There will always be something new, better, and possibly even cheaper!
Look at the photo industry trends: cameras to phones, DSLRs to mirrorless, desktops to mobile, and local storage to the cloud. This cycle is never-ending and certainly will continue. I doubt one can buy a new camera that doesn’t shoot video. There has never been a better time to look at your existing gear and consider its capabilities. With the influx of new creators, the market for used video and photography equipment has probably never been more robust.
AI is a game changer
Every company, from the largest to the smaller developers, explores or deploys AI technologies. As users, we will ultimately reap the benefits. But like all new technologies, there will be pain points and trade-offs. This change will happen, and how or when you embrace it is ultimately up to you. It’s the new tool in the mix. Like always, the software train is driven by hardware advances, ease of use, performance and speed, user-driven features, and of course, price! Measure the results on your pictures and what works for you over the buzz, as that will always be never-ending.
Editor’s Note: This year, we celebrate 25+ years of reviewing new products and software and producing educational content. We wouldn’t be here without you! We appreciate your continued support of our site and our sponsors. If you’re interested in meeting up and chatting, we will attend the BILD Expo in NYC on Sept. 6 & 7th.
