Photography itself may be trendier than ever before, but there’s a few noticeable similarities within the genre as well, popping up in advertising, fine art and even Instagram. And who better to pick out the trends than stock photography companies? Both Stocksy and Shutterstock honed in on some of the biggest photography trends this year, from pattern to color. Whether you want to shoot on-trend images this year or stand out from the crowd, here are eight popular trends from the most in-demand images on photo sites.
Patterns
That old patterned Hawaiian shirt isn’t reserved for your weird uncle — pattern is in. Okay, so maybe not the Hawaiian pattern, but using repetition in images is a big trend this year. From the stripped light coming through a set of blinds to the repetition of the leaves of a fern, pattern has always added an interesting compositional element, but it’s even bigger this year.
Film
Why add an Instagram film preset when you can shoot with actual film? Many photographers have stuck with the medium — or shoot it alongside digital — and now publications and advertising agencies are picking up on the trend.
Flash
Flash has always been a powerful tool, but just like the old film looks are coming back, Stocksy seems to think the obvious flash look is returning too. While professional shooters shouldn’t forget how to properly blend the flash and the ambient light anytime soon, an obvious flash seems to have the appeal of some vintage film filters in stock images.
Flat lay
Flat lay, or laying a bunch of objects flat, is a growing trend for still life photography. Flat lay allows the view to see a spread from directly above. If you really want to be trendy, look for ways to create a pattern in your flat lay photo.
Metallic colors
Photography trends often take hints from fashion — and the recent popularity in metallic prints for accessories and apparel have certainly taken on a photographic appeal. Metallics are a bit unusual as far as visual art colors, but the light-catching colors are catching on.
Watercolor
Watercolor graphics are picking up speed for social media graphics and even logos. Watercolors are light, feminine and even evocative. They’re popular for natural scenes, but the expressive, flowing medium can be found in a number of different types of designs.
Color
Metallic color, watercolor — okay, color is trendy this year. But it’s unusual color that you don’t see everyday that’s trending. Think light leaks, colorful infrared, and color exaggerated film.
Black and white
Has black and white ever not been a trend? While the introduction of color film and even color sensors hasn’t squashed the medium, black and white is becoming even more common in advertising. When the color is removed, the subject really pops.
With the abundance of images out there thanks to the smartphone camera, the out-of-the-ordinary looks are becoming trendy for photography and graphics. Looks that go beyond the average Instagram filter — like using actual film or an obvious flash — are becoming much more popular this year, according to stock photo sites.
What do you think? What’s your favorite emerging trend in photography — and which one will you be skipping out on?