Latest Photo Trends for Marketing in 2025
Do you know what the latest trends in photo use might be in 2025?
Don’t worry if you don’t. I’ve done the research, so you don’t have to. The key takeaway is that we’re looking for a more human connection to our images, and that means focusing on the right things.
Here are the points that I think might be most relevant for you and your business.
1. AI vs the Human Touch.
The rise of AI generated content is getting better every day, but until they’ve got all the eyes and hands in the right place, we’re still nowhere near fully automating our images. But I also think that, in a world where we’re not sure what’s real and what’s not on social media, people are looking for a human connection.
Essentially, it’s all about authenticity. Real people. Real situations. Minimally edited.
No more airbrushing and heavy filter use. Natural light. And let people see real skin textures.
For you: Think portraits, especially in fashion, advertising and media. And let’s show them you!
2. Sensory Images
We’re starting to see the rise of images that can do a little more than just stare up at you for the screen. Think multiple sensory triggering images. Perhaps ones that have textures that you could almost touch, or photographs that make you feel temperature or movement.
In part, I think this could be due to the growing trend of immersive experiences. And it’s nothing new that photographs need to invoke emotion, but this is a more focused approach to making sure images stand out and make a difference.
As with portraits, people are looking for a more human experience which you can’t get from an AI generated image. At least, not yet.
So, make sure you’re getting sharp, detailed shots that work with this trend.
3. Closeups
This is all about connecting with a product or image. Think detail shots, closeup. It could be stitching on some clothes or the detailing of jewellery.
4. 360degrees and movement
You can thank the immersive movement again for this, but there is a steady rise in the 360degree movement, especially for products. Think short films and 360 photos that allow your audience to see a product from every angle.
5. Aerial Shots
Finally, with the advent of cheap drones, we can expect to see an increased rise in aerial photographs. It is, after all, a great way to promote travel, properties and even events. The creative angles that you get from drones can wake people up from the usual images they see every day.
The big takeaway: we’re trying to compete in an ever-crowded space of visual content. Our job has changed from general visual marketing. We now have to capture the imagination of a highly distracted audience. One that is more interested in a quick dopamine fix.
To do that, we need to think differently. Try new things. And, always, help our audience connect with us by being more human, more real.
Authenticity has never been more important.