Emerging trends and technologies to watch out for
Think back 10 years. Could you have predicted the current trends and technologies we see today with corporate photography?
Think about the changes we have seen in the way businesses use photography to promote their brand, products, and services in just that short space of time.
In 2013, Instagram was only just shifting to having short videos on its platform and ads didn’t even exist on the platform. Heck, in 2013 Google+ was actually being used (is it still around? Who knows!).
Trends and technologies continue to change and grow. As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see some exciting new trends and innovations in corporate photography.
So what can we expect to see in the coming years and what does that mean for your brand?
Virtual and Augmented Reality
Virtual and augmented reality are emerging technologies that have the potential to revolutionise the way businesses use photography.
By creating immersive and interactive experiences, businesses can engage with their audiences in a more meaningful way.
For example, a real estate company could use virtual reality to showcase properties to potential buyers, while a retailer could use augmented reality to allow customers to try on clothes virtually, I did this only yesterday with a pair of sunglasses, it’s amazing!
It is already happening but as these technologies become more accessible and affordable, we can expect to see more businesses using them to create unique and memorable experiences for their customers.
Drone Photography
Drone photography has been around for a while, but it is becoming increasingly popular in corporate settings.
It’s reducing the cost and barriers that used to be faced in capturing aerial shots of buildings, construction sites, and other locations that once could only be captured from a helicopter or aircraft.
This technology is particularly useful in industries like real estate, construction, and architecture, where businesses need to showcase large properties and structures.
360-Degree Photography
360-degree photography allows businesses to create immersive and interactive experiences by capturing images in every direction.
This technology is particularly useful for businesses in the travel and tourism industry, as it allows customers to explore destinations virtually before booking their trip.
360-degree photography can also be used in real estate, architecture, and other industries where businesses need to showcase properties and spaces.
Interactive Photography
Interactive photography involves using technology to create dynamic and engaging experiences for viewers. This can include elements such as clickable hotspots, animations, and interactive videos.
By incorporating interactive elements into their photographs, businesses can create a more immersive and engaging experience for their customers, streamline shopping experiences, and simplify how a customer engages with you.
Mobile Photography
Mobile photography is becoming more prevalent in corporate settings, as businesses recognise the importance of capturing spontaneous and authentic moments.
With the advances in smartphone camera technology, it is now possible to take high-quality photos on the go, without the need for expensive equipment and professional photographers.
Mobile photography is particularly useful for social media and online platforms, where businesses need to create content quickly and efficiently.
Will it completely remove the need for professional photos? Not any time soon, but it’s an amazing way to supplement them and keep your clients up to date with your business.
What about other trends in commercial photography?
Technology might be at the forefront of your mind as you search for ways to stand out from your competitors, but there are emerging trends that are worth noting too (all of which we’re celebrating here at edt.):
Sustainability
As businesses become more conscious of their environmental impact, we can expect to see a growing demand for sustainable photography practices.
This includes using eco-friendly equipment and techniques, as well as choosing sustainable locations and materials for photoshoots (we’re looking at you balloons!).
Businesses that prioritise sustainability in their photography practices can differentiate themselves in the market and appeal to the ever growing cohort of environmentally conscious consumers.
Authenticity
Yes, I said it. For some it’s the most overused phrase in marketing at the moment.
But authenticity has become increasingly important in corporate photography in recent years.
Businesses are looking to showcase real people, real situations, and real emotions in their photographs, rather than relying on staged and generic stock images.
This trend is driven by the desire to connect with customers on a deeper and more personal level, and data shows that consumers are becoming increasingly aware of when they are being fed generic stock images.
Diversity and Inclusion
Diversity and inclusion have become increasingly important in corporate photography, as businesses recognise the need to represent a wide range of people and perspectives in their visual content.
This includes showcasing people of different races, genders, ages, abilities, and backgrounds (hallelujah!).
By prioritising diversity and inclusion in their photography practices, businesses can appeal to a broader audience and create a more inclusive brand.
So how do these emerging trends in commercial photography affect you?
There are many exciting trends in commercial photography that we are watching and bringing into our offerings at edt. Photography.
By staying up to date with these trends, you can create engaging and effective visual content that resonates with your target audience.
Whether it’s using virtual reality to create immersive experiences or embracing authenticity to create more genuine connections with customers, the possibilities for your business in this space are endless.