Photography trends to watch in 2025
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Time to read 5 min
In 2025, the photography landscape is advancing with several notable trends and gear innovations. Here’s what to watch for:
1. Retro and vintage photography
The enticement of nostalgia continues to shape photography, with a comeback in retro and vintage styles. Photographers are embracing film photography for its authentic look and depth, with some professionals returning to analogue methods to achieve superior image quality. This trend is evident in various genres, including fashion and wedding photography, where clients seek the timeless, sentimental feel that film provides. As a result, photographers will lean toward gear such as medium format film cameras, film scanners, and 35mm lenses. Additionally, accessories like instant film printers and vintage-style manual focus lenses are set to gain popularity.
Classic cameras like the Fujifilm Instax are once again finding their way into camera bags, prized for their distinctive rendering and tactile shooting experience. Clients are increasingly drawn to film not only because of the look, but because it feels more intentional and personal compared to digital filters that attempt to replicate the same effect.
A growing number of photographers are also adopting a hybrid approach, shooting both digital and film at the same event. This allows them to enjoy the efficiency and reliability of digital photography while still offering clients the unique tones, textures, and imperfections that only film can provide. As a result, photographers will lean toward gear such as medium format film cameras, film scanners, and 35mm lenses. Additionally, accessories like instant film printers and vintage-style manual focus lenses are set to gain popularity.
Photo by Unsplash
2. AI-Assisted editing
Artificial Intelligence is revolutionising the editing process, making workflows more efficient and results more consistent. AI-powered tools assist photographers with tasks like colour correction, image enhancement, and subject recognition. it allows for more efficient workflows and consistent results. Cameras equipped with AI-driven autofocus, subject tracking, and real-time image enhancement are becoming essential.
When paired with advanced editing software like Adobe Lightroom’s enhanced AI tools or Capture One Pro, photographers can achieve stunning, consistent results in less time. Other popular AI-driven programs, such as Luminar Neo and Topaz Labs, are also gaining traction for their ability to streamline tasks like sky replacement, noise reduction, and sharpening with just a few clicks.
Of course, AI comes with both advantages and challenges. On the plus side, it drastically saves time, especially for event photographers who need to batch-edit hundreds of images under tight deadlines. However, there’s a risk that overreliance on automated tools can lead to images that feel too generic or lose the personal touch that makes a photographer’s style unique. Successful photographers in 2025 will find the balance using AI as a supportive tool rather than a creative crutch.
Photo by Unsplash
3. Inclusive photography
There’s a growing commitment to showcasing diversity in photography. Inclusive photography emphasises representation across various demographics, including race, age, gender, body type, and ability. This approach aims to capture the true diversity of society, making imagery more relatable and authentic.
Brands are already leading the way, campaigns like Dove’s Real Beauty initiative and Getty Images’ “Show Us” project have set new standards by challenging stereotypes and ensuring diverse representation in commercial imagery. These examples highlight how inclusive visuals not only resonate with audiences but also build stronger connections between brands and their communities.
For photographers, approaching inclusive shoots requires both sensitivity and technical skill. Lighting darker skin tones with adjustable colour temperatures is essential for achieving natural, flattering results. Accessibility should also be considered, everything from providing comfortable seating to using customisable camera grips can make shoots more inclusive for people with different abilities. Lenses with wide apertures, like 35mm or 85mm f/1.4, continue to be popular for portraiture, as they allow photographers to highlight each subject beautifully. Modular camera systems and portable lighting setups further ensure that shoots can be adapted for different environments and needs, making inclusivity not just a social goal but a professional standard in 2025.
Photo by Unsplash
4. Bold and bright colours
High-contrast images with saturated tones are set to dominate the visual landscape, capturing attention and evoking strong emotions. This trend is particularly popular in advertising and social media content, where vibrant imagery is more likely to go viral. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram are driving the demand for visually striking styles that stand out in crowded feeds.
Photographers looking to embrace this trend can experiment with coloured gels in studio lighting, or apply creative LUTs (Look-Up Tables) in post-production to achieve consistent, bold looks. Cameras with advanced colour science and high dynamic range (HDR) capabilities, such as the Canon R5 or Sony A7R V, are especially suited for producing clean, vibrant tones without sacrificing detail.
Ultimately, bold colours are about emotion. By combining saturated hues with storytelling, photographers can ensure their images feel not only eye-catching but also purposeful.
Photo by Unsplash
5. Cinematic storytelling
Photographers are increasingly embracing cinematic techniques to tell compelling stories, using lighting, composition, and colour grading inspired by film cinematography to create dramatic and emotive imagery.
Cinematic storytelling often involves shooting sequences rather than standalone shots, guiding viewers through a narrative with detail, emotion, and atmosphere. Techniques like using leading lines, incorporating depth through foreground and background elements, or experimenting with strong shadows can elevate ordinary scenes into powerful visual stories.
In 2025, tools like motorised sliders, gimbals, and external monitors with LUT support will become essential for crafting these compositions. Many photographers are also blending cinematic photography with short-form video storytelling, offering clients cohesive visual narratives across both stills and video, an especially popular approach for weddings, brand campaigns, and social media content.
Photo by Unsplash
6. Sustainable photography
Environmental consciousness is influencing photographers to adopt sustainable practices, such as using eco-friendly materials, minimising production waste, and supporting conservation efforts. Solar-powered chargers and long-lasting, rechargeable batteries will play a key role in reducing waste and promoting eco-friendly workflows.
Beyond gear, photographers can take steps like using eco-friendly print labs, offering recycled or sustainably sourced photo albums, and even hiring second-hand equipment when appropriate. These choices not only reduce environmental impact but also resonate with clients who are increasingly prioritising sustainability in their purchasing decisions.
The creative industry as a whole leaves a notable footprint, studies show that photography and video production contribute significantly to waste through disposable batteries, packaging, and high energy usage. By adopting greener practices, photographers in 2025 can align their work with broader sustainability goals while setting themselves apart as socially responsible professionals.
Photo by Unsplash
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is retro and vintage photography making a comeback in 2025?
Many photographers and clients are drawn to the authenticity and nostalgia of film photography. The depth, texture, and timeless feel of analogue methods can’t always be replicated digitally, making retro styles especially popular for weddings, fashion, and editorial work.
How does AI-assisted editing help photographers?
AI saves time by automating tasks like colour correction, noise reduction, and subject recognition. It also helps maintain consistency across shoots, allowing photographers to focus more on creativity and storytelling rather than repetitive editing.
Which gear is best for bold and bright photography styles?
Cameras with advanced colour science and high dynamic range (HDR) capabilities are ideal for achieving vivid, saturated tones. Pairing these with lenses that handle contrast well helps create eye-catching images suited for advertising and social media.
Which of these trends is most important for beginners to focus on?
For beginners, AI-assisted editing is a game-changer. It helps speed up learning and produces professional-looking results without overwhelming technical barriers. From there, experimenting with bold colours or cinematic styles can help build a strong creative portfolio.
