PhotoKarma 2024 v9 by Domien Van Eynde

TABLE OF CONTENTS

6 The Global Digital Photography Market

The State of the Professional Photography Workforce Number of Professional Photographers Income Levels for Photographers in the US Photographer Income Worldwide

9 Employment Trends for Photographers Niche Photography Genres Emerging Photography Niches

How Photographers Generate Revenue

Photography Equipment and Software

Technology Trends

How Photographers Acquire Clients The Impact of Social Media Personal Websites

The Rise of Mirrorless Cameras Camera Brands Drone Photography The Price of Drones Photography Editing Software Market

A Note on How AI Works AI in Digital Cameras AI Generated Images Virtual Reality Augmented Reality 360-Degree Cameras

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Taya Iv Silvia Travieso John Ricard Julee Ho Scott Smorra Daniel Kordan Sarah & Cédric (Coordinotes) Christian Brockes Julia Wimmerlin Gim Liu Kristopher Andres Andrei Savin Magali Agnello Angela Garcia Federica Nardese Joas Souza Chris Gray Jenifer Bunnett Alex Vita Geert Weggen Rylan Meadows Richard Levine Luana Seu Whitney Justesen Daniel Wright Joe Redski Carolyn Cheng Stephen Bartkus Andrew Scrivani Rebecca Sehn

Photography Trends: 2024 Outlook Introduction Technological innovation, the influence of social media, shifting consumer preferences, and a pandemic combined to bring significant transformations to the photography industry in recent years. These forces will continue to impact photography, at least in the near term. Successful photographers will find ways to capitalize on current trends as they reshape their art and business practices. In this report, we’ll take a detailed look at the state of photography, identify trends, and define the challenges of this dynamic profession.

The Global Digital Photography Market The photography industry has experienced significant growth in recent years, with global market size and revenue seeing steady increases.

According to a report by Dublin-based Research and Markets, the worldwide digital photography market was valued at $109.8 billion in 2022. The compound annual growth rate (CAGR) is projected to be 4.4 percent through the end of the decade, with a global market value of $161.8 billion in 2030. The growth can be attributed to various factors, including technological advancements, an increase in freelance photographers, and the rising popularity of social media platforms that rely heavily on visual content. North America commands the largest share of the global photography market at 45 percent, with Western Europe at 25 percent of the market; this reflects the purchasing power of the two regions. The Asia Pacific region has a 20-percent market share. South America, the Middle East, and Africa split the remaining 10 percent. After a dormant period during the COVID-19 pandemic, the photography industry has demonstrated strong market size, revenue generation, and continued growth prospects for the coming years. Technological innovations are driving many aspects of this growth, unlocking new channels

of demand across various regions and segments within the industry.

The State of the Professional Photography Workforce Advancements in digital technology and shifting consumer preferences exert an influence on the number of professional photographers working in the field, their income levels, and employment trends within the industry.

Number of Professional Photographers In the United States, 148,900 professional photographers were employed in various sectors, according to a 2022 report by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. These photography sectors include portrait, event, commercial, photojournalism, and other genres.

Income Levels for Photographers in the US The BLS reports that the 2022 median annual salary for photographers was $40,170. The lowest 10 percent earned $26,990 a year, while the highest 10 percent earned $82,450. It’s important to note that these figures vary based on factors such as geographical location and area of expertise within the field.

Photographer Income Worldwide Photographer salaries vary by a considerable amount in countries around the world. Here are the average base salaries by country, according to the California-based Economic Research Institute:

Australia: $32,765 (AUD 50,383) Brazil: $17,103 (BRL 83,798) Canada: $54,674 (CAD 74,713) China: $22,630 (CNY 164,670)

Germany: $59,445 (EUR 55,378) Great Britain: $48,209 (GBP 38,945) Russia: $10,522 (RUB 971,022) South Africa: $19,654 (ZAR 359,162)

Salaries are based on a number of factors, including experience, training, education level, skills, and competency.

Employment Trends for Photographers Over recent years, the demand for certain types of photography services has shifted. For instance, growth in event and portrait photography has seen positive growth, the result of increased consumer spending and a robust economy. In contrast, advances in digital technology have led to a decline in traditional print media and newspaper organizations, resulting in reduced demand for photojournalists.

Furthermore, the rise of social media platforms led to an increase in self-produced content, moderating demand for professional photography services. Zenfolio and Format, two photography website providers, surveyed more than 2,000 photographers. Their report indicated a diversification of photography genres. About 12 percent of the photographers reported shooting in up to four photography specialties.

Below is a summary of that 2022 report. ● Portrait photography, which includes family photos, professional headshots, and personal portraits, is the leading genre; 19.3 percent of all working photographers shoot portraits. Demand for updating personal branding materials for online platforms like Instagram and LinkedIn, along with a rise in the popularity of family photo sessions, are driving growth in this segment. ● Landscape photography captures the great outdoors; 11.4 percent of photographers specialize in this genre. The growth of social media has led to a flood of good landscape shots, with some photographers giving away their work for free. Therefore, making money in the genre depends on producing high-quality work and marketing it to willing buyers. Online galleries like Fine Art America and Pictorem are good places to start the process. Also, landscape photographers can sell their work to tourism boards, magazines, and travel agencies.

impacted this industry in 2020, it is recovering. ● Wedding photography is a significant segment within the industry, at 8.7 percent of the photography market. The global wedding services market was valued at $161 billion in 2020, according to Allied Market Research. It is a huge industry, and couples spend 10-15 percent of their wedding budget on photography. Although impacted by COVID-19, the wedding photography market recovered quickly as people rescheduled their events. Emerging trends include unique storytelling through images, drone photography, and small, intimate weddings. ● Fine art photography is created primarily for its aesthetic qualities, reflecting the artistic vision of the photographer. Of the photographers surveyed, 7.6 percent work in this genre. They market their work through galleries, retail outlets, and print-on-demand services. Fine art photography may make a nice revenue stream, but it’s highly competitive and difficult to achieve as a primary source of income.

● Event photography (excluding weddings) concentrates on corporate gatherings, festivals, concerts, and family reunions. This genre involves 6.5 percent of photographers. Although the COVID-19 pandemic significantly

In addition to photography skills, communication is essential. Event photographers interact with many people before and during a shoot, so maintaining good relationships with them can result in repeat or new business. The marketing plan should include contacts with event planners, social media pages, and blogs. ● Sports Photography includes 6.4 percent of the photographers surveyed. It’s big business documenting sports, athletes, and competition. Sports photographers market their services through contacts and relationships with teams, schools, and players. A bit of research to learn the history of the team and athletes helps to understand what the hiring managers are looking for.

● Documentary photography is the candid recording of events, places, and people, often in historical or political moments, a genre that encompasses 6.3 percent of photographers. Job opportunities include print media and government organizations. For example, law enforcement agencies often include photography operations to document crime scenes. In addition, opportunities often arise when law firms and insurance companies want images to support court cases. ● Commercial photography is the genre where 6.3 percent of professional photographers earn some money. Commercial photography consists of images produced for advertising purposes, covering areas such as products and food & beverage. A rise in online shopping during the pandemic led to increased demand for commercial photography as retailers promoted their products through e-commerce websites. That demand is expected to continue, driven by e-commerce growth along with a rise in social media advertising.

Niche Photography Genres ● Fashion and beauty photography captures models, clothes, and backgrounds in a commercial context to sell a lifestyle and attitude. It is a very specialized niche, 5.1 percent of professional photographers work in this genre. Fashion photographers need a creative style and innovative techniques, along with a complete understanding of lighting and photo equipment and expertise in postproduction editing software. And, as in many photographic specialties, communication skills and the ability to work with a team are essential. ● Family photography is a sub-genre of portrait photography, employing 4.5 percent of photographers. Creating stunning images of one person is challenging. Working with a group of people, which may include children, is even more demanding. Photos that capture family moments are reproduced on Christmas cards or framed to hang in living rooms. These shots include a careful selection of location and lighting.

● Wildlife photography is a demanding field for 4.5 percent of working photographers. In addition to basic photographic knowledge and technique, wildlife photographers need field skills. Many animals and birds are difficult to approach, and photographers may need to learn to stalk or use a blind or some form of concealment. Wildlife photographers generate income by selling their work on stock sites, directly to media clients, or by producing prints to sell to consumers. ● Travel Photography captures beautiful landscapes and the unique experiences of traveling worldwide, a niche that employs 3.7 percent of photographers. Covid-19 restrictions temporarily impacted the genre; however, travel photographers continued sharing content through social media platforms like Instagram or selling prints online. Revenue streams include stock photo sites as well as resorts and tourism boards that use travel images with their marketing materials.

Emerging Photography Niches Photography is a dynamic field that continually evolves with technological advancements, cultural shifts, and new creative trends. There are several emerging photography niches, but for some, the quantitative data is sketchy.

● Pet photography is on the rise as pet owners seek images that capture precious moments with their furry friends. ● Drone Photography has grown rapidly. Aerial photography for real estate listings is now a necessity. In addition, drone photography is becoming more popular for weddings, landscapes, outdoor events, and surveying. ● Food Photography benefitted greatly from social media platforms elevating the importance of food presentation. Food photographers will see growing demand within the culinary world. ● Abstract photography takes the viewer beyond a realistic representation of the world, capturing ideas and concepts of geometry and macro designs.

● Astrophotography uses the sky as a subject, producing images of a sky full of stars or capturing astronomical events such as comets, asteroids, eclipses, and the Northern Lights. ● Street photography has a unique appeal, documenting unplanned events with random themes. Subjects include street vendors, corridors created by city architecture, and the busy nature of urban life. ● Underwater photography is a highly specialized niche, requiring diving equipment and underwater camera gear. It can result in fantastic images of marine wildlife, underwater landscapes, and surf scenes.

The photography industry has seen growth in various market segments driven by increasing demand for visually appealing images across numerous genres. Remaining competitive requires adapting to current trends and understanding the unique demands within each segment.

How Photographers Generate Revenue Photographers generate revenue through various avenues, and the specific methods can depend on their specialization, skills, and business model.

Photo shoots or session fees account for 60 percent of the revenue generated by professional photographers, accordinga to the Zenfolio/Format survey. Selling prints online is 23.1 percent and selling digital downloads is 20.7 percent of income. In-person sales made up 18 percent of income. Most photographers report more than one revenue stream.

How Photographers Acquire Clients Despite the increasing use of social media and online platforms, word of mouth remains the top method by which photographers find clients.

Referrals and word-of-mouth recommendations account for 61 percent of photography business, the Zenfolio/ Format survey showed. Portfolio websites account for 40 percent of client acquisition. Social media platforms also attract a sizable share of business, with Instagram accounting for 38 percent and Facebook 25 percent. Another 22 percent of photography business comes from Google searches.

The Impact of Social Media The photography industry has increasingly turned to social media and online platforms to showcase images, connect with clients, and network with peers. The impact of various social media platforms on the photography profession is difficult to quantify; however, the sheer number of users is impressive. Facebook has nearly 3 billion active users, Instagram has over 1 billion users, and Pinterest logs over 444 million users. Among user-generated content spaces, YouTube has 2 billion active users, and TikTok usage is trending upward at nearly 1 billion. Photographers are embracing these platforms as a means to share behind-the-scenes footage or video tutorials, showcase their skills, and network.

Personal Websites Online portfolios such as Behance or Adobe Portfolio allow photographers to selectively showcase their best work in a format tailored to their specifications. While these sites may not boast the large user base of social media, they provide a professional space for potential clients to explore a photographer’s work. Print-on-demand sites such as Art Storefronts and Pictorem offer photographers a platform to showcase their work and generate revenue through print sales or digital downloads. The photography industry has embraced social media and online platforms. Their work can be displayed in online galleries and social media pages. In addition, they can connect with potential clients, network with peers, and gain inspiration from other photographers. With increasing numbers of active users and trends favoring visual content consumption, photographers should continue to use these digital platforms.

Photography Equipment and Software Technological advancements and the pandemic have impacted camera, lens, and software sales.

In 2022, the retail value of the digital interchangeable lens camera (DILC) market was $10.2 billion, according to the Camera & Imaging Products Association (CIPA). That figure is projected to be $13.3 billion by 2025. Meanwhile, the interchangeable lens market was $7.3 billion in 2022; projected to be $8.1 billion in 2025.

The Rise of Mirrorless Cameras According to the CIPA, worldwide camera shipments dropped by 84 percent between 2010 and 2018. The camera industry shipped 121 million units in 2010 but only 19 million by 2018; some of this is due to the emergence of smartphone photography.

The DSLR market continues to decline, with shipments falling by 17 percent in 2022, according to CIPA. However, that has been offset by robust growth in mirrorless cameras, which increased by 31 percent during the same period. The latest CIPA data indicates that mirrorless cameras account for 69 percent of the market for digital interchangeable lens cameras (DILC). Recent years have been challenging for the camera industry, with sales impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and a worldwide shortage of semiconductors. But the market appears to be recovering.

Camera Brands Canon led the worldwide digital camera market in 2022, with a 45.8-percent share, according to Statista. Canon’s dominance is attributed to outstanding image quality, color accuracy, and dynamic range. Also, the most recent Canon cameras include excellent video features. Sony had 27 percent of the market, Nikon 11.3 percent, Fujifilm 5.9 percent, and Panasonic 4.4 percent. All other brands combined for 5.6 percent of digital camera sales.

Drone Photography A rapidly expanding photography segment, drone manufacturers offer solutions specifically designed for photographers.

The global market for aerial imaging was $3 billion in 2022 and is projected to be valued at $28 billion in 2032, with a compound annual growth rate of 22 percent (CIPA). The growth is fueled by consistent advances in aerial camera technology, demand for defense and civil applications, and the popularity of aerial photography by amateur and professional photographers.

The Price of Drones Photography drones range in price from cheap to expensive. The Falcon Drone, developed by Easy Aerial, features a 12-megapixel camera and 4k video at a price of $99. The Zenmuse X5S by DJI has a 21-megapixel camera, 5k video, interchangeable lenses, and specifications that match many quality digital cameras at a price of $2,000. At the high end of the drone marketplace, the Matrice 30T, also by DJI, boasts a zoom camera with a 48 MP sensor, thermal imaging and infrared sensing systems, along with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. And a price of around $10,000. A fast-growing trend in recent years, drone photography delivers a new perspective on landscapes, real estate, weddings, and events. A novelty just a few years ago, it has become an essential tool for many photographers.

Photography Editing Software Market With artificial intelligence leading to improved image enhancement and noise reduction, photography editing software is poised for growth.

The global photography editing software market was valued at $932 million in 2021, according to a study by Business Research Insights. With a compound annual growth rate of 4.9 percent over the next eight years, the market is projected to be valued at $1.3 billion by 2028. The major player is Adobe, with Photoshop and Lightroom combining for 65 percent of the market. Picasa 9 percent, Aperture 8 percent, Gimp 5 percent, iPhoto 4 percent, and Paintshop Pro 3 percent. All other photo editing programs account for about 6 percent of the market.

Technology Trends

The photography industry has fully embraced technological advancements. The adoption of innovative technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and mirrorless cameras has enhanced the market’s potential and demand for equipment. Bloomberg Intelligence projects a 42-percent compound annual growth rate for generative AI over the next decade, predicting that the $40 billion market of 2022 will explode to $1.3 trillion by 2032. I haven’t found any AI growth data specific to photography, but new technologies are shaping both the production and consumption of photographic content.

A Note on How AI Works AI uses machine learning to make decisions based on real-time processing of data. It’s an attempt to simulate the process of human intelligence, employing complex algorithms where the device learns from previous experience.

AI in Digital Cameras Correcting red-eye is an AI function that has been in use in digital cameras for 20 years. Facial recognition and subject recognition are more recent advances. Innovations in auto-focus are happening rapidly and represent a fundamental manner in which AI benefits photography. AIassisted auto-focus delivers better accuracy, precise tracking, and faster focusing. The end 20

result is extremely accurate autofocus that tracks subjects even when they are moving fast, as in wildlife and sports photography.

AI in Post Processing Artificial intelligence is changing the way photographers edit their work, making it easier and faster to produce high-quality final images. AI can automate time-consuming actions, applying brushes and masks with a few clicks and synching edits to a batch of photos. Using basic algorithms, AI can increase the resolution of images and reduce noise. It can adjust color balance and exposure and even assist with the culling process.

AI Generated Images With a sentence or two of text prompts, artificial intelligence can create images. It does this by amassing data, training an AI model, and then generating the image. AI brings new creative opportunities and can produce images that are impossible to capture using traditional photography. These images are being used in advertising, entertainment, and media. The use of AI-generated images is a growing trend despite legal and ethical issues about what constitutes original and proprietary content.

AR is used in a variety of applications, including training, brand engagement, augmented surgery, and virtual tours. Retail businesses adapted to travel restrictions and social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic by turning to augmented reality. Brands as diverse as IKEA, Home Depot, and Gucci implemented tryit-before-you-buy-it experiences in their online shopping. Google Maps incorporates augmented reality into its Street View, superimposing information such as direction arrows over real-life objects.

Virtual Reality

360-Degree Cameras

Virtual Reality has become a key player in the photography industry by enabling photographers to create immersive experiences for viewers. VR technology allows users to explore threedimensional environments captured through special cameras, providing an entirely new perspective in photography. VR videos require 360-degree cameras or a group of small cameras that capture multiple images from different angles simultaneously.

Omnidirectional camera systems, or 360-degree cameras, allow photographers to capture entire panoramic scenes in a single image, creating a more immersive experience. 360-degree cameras use multiple lenses to record all angles at once, with software subsequently stitching the images together to create seamless panoramic views.

A report by Fortune Business Insights valued the global virtual reality market at $19.4 billion in 2022, with a projected compound annual growth rate of 31 percent through 2030. By the end of the forecast period, the VR market value is expected to be $165.9 billion. This projected growth will impact a number of industries, including video games, healthcare, transportation, marketing, and police and military training.

Augmented Reality Augmented Reality is another emerging technology impacting the photography industry. AR is an interactive version of a real-world environment employing digital visual elements, sounds, and other sensory stimuli. Consumers might use AR to see how a sofa would fit into their living room. Fortune Business Insights valued the global augmented reality market at $42.2 billion in 2022. With a 50.7-percent compound annual growth rate over the next eight years, Forbes anticipates a market value of $1.1 trillion by 2030.

Driven by entertainment, media, and the travel industry, the 360-degree camera market was valued at $1 billion in 2022, according to Research and Markets. The report projected a compound annual growth rate of 25.7 percent over a six-year period, with a market value of $4.3 trillion by 2028. The growth in this segment will be propelled by VR and AR systems in immersive gaming, panoramicview surveillance systems, and virtual tours for hotels and resorts.

Tech Takeaway Emerging technologies such as VR, AR, 360-degree photography, and AI are revolutionizing the photography industry by offering new ways for photographers to capture and share their work while streamlining processes involved in image production and editing. These innovations continue to push the boundaries of what is possible within this creative space, setting the stage for an exciting future in the world of photography.

Taya Iv Website: https://photographycourse.net/author/taya/ Photography Genres: Portrait

Travel

Pet

Wildlife

Fave Camera Brand: Canon

Socials:

What’s in your camera bag? • • • • • • • •

Canon 5D Mark II Canon 80D Canon 50mm f/1.2 Yongnuo 35mm f/2 Canon 135mm f/2, A tripod A remote My smartphone (more specifically, the Camera Connect app on my smartphone).

Are there any specific equipment or gear innovations that you believe will have a significant impact on the industry in 2024? I think that mirrorless cameras will continue to have a massive impact on the photography industry in 2024. They’re much lighter than DSLRs and provide more flexibility, especially when it comes to autofocus and image stabilisation.

Where do you get the latest news on new gear? Where do you usually buy new gear? I get most of my gear news from our Great Big Photography World Podcast guests. Some of our guests need to have the latest equipment to give their clients the best results. That information helps me a lot. As a hobbyist, I don’t typically buy new gear but when I do, it’s used.

How is photography making the world a better place in 2024? Ph oto graphy is gi vin g p e op l e th e opportunity to express themselves creatively and connect with others. It’s incredible to see the amount of communities that exist in the photography world. There’s something for everyone, which means that even if someone pursues a very specific niche, they’ll be able to make new friends and collaborate with like-minded photographers. Even on social media, photography can be a very enriching experience if it’s used wisely.

What emerging photography trends do you foresee gaining popularity in 2024? Auth enticit y, environ m entalism, an d analogue photography - as popular as they have been in the last few years - will undoubtedly continue to gain popularity in 2024. More and more companies are looking for unedited (or minimally edited) photos these days. As for analogue photography, there’s something special about light leaks, grain, and camera limitations.

If you could pick a photography mentor in 2024, who would you pick? Why? It’s a tie between Woody Lau and Hideaki Hamada. Woody is based in Hong Kong and takes stunning photographs of people. His photos have a lighthearted and airy look that reminds me of Studio Ghibli movies. Hideaki is a Japanese portrait photographer who creates masterpieces in simple locations. No

matter what they photograph, they’re able to tell a story through their photos and put me in a specific mood. It’s magic. It would be an honour to learn from them.

The unavoidable question: How do you see the use of artificial intelligence or machine learning impacting photography in 2024? Like any big change, it will have a significant impact. Some photographers are positive about it, but most of the people I know aren’t happy about this change. However, I believe that there will continue to be opportunities for photographers to express themselves, make money, and contribute to the industry. Being realistic is important, but I genuinely believe that this won’t lead to the end of photography as we know it now.

What is your favorite photographyrelated book or resource that will continue to have a significant impact on your career in 2024? Why? When I was around 9 or 10 years old, my parents bought me a book called Animals Up Close by Igor Siwanowicz, which is a macro photography book with fascinating information about different animals and insects. This was a few years before I developed an interest in photography. I was amazed by the pictures and stories that Igor shared in the book. It’s funny that I never got around to pursuing macro photography, but that book is still a great source of inspiration

Don’t force anything, but be open to learning new things.

for me. Even as a child, I could sense Igor’s enthusiasm and love for his subjects. When I start to overthink and worry about other people’s perception of my work, I think about him and feel compelled to focus on my passion instead.

Wh a t i s yo u r g o -to m e t h o d f o r overcoming creative block and finding inspiration in 2024? Taking photos just for myself. In the last few years, I found myself thinking more and more about other people’s opinions of my work. Will they like what I posted? How will it look on my feed? What if my work doesn’t get acknowledged? The desire to gain recognition turned into an egocentric mission that took all the joy out of photography. I think it’s very natural to want recognition, but it can get in the way. When I noticed that I was being very shallow, I quit social media. It has been very liberating to do this, but I understand that it’s not possible for everyone. Taking a short break and taking photos for yourself is a good alternative, in my opinion.

If you could give one piece of advice to a beginner in photography, what would it be? Don’t force anything, but be open to learning new things. Make lots of friends by joining photography clubs or forums and don’t be afraid of sharing your work online. At the same time, learn how to enjoy taking photos without needing anyone’s approval.

C a n yo u s h a r e a s p e c i f i c t o o l , technology, or sof tware that has revolutionized your workflow and significantly enhanced your creative process as a photographer? My computer can be quite slow, so Adobe

Favourite photography digital tool in 2024 — Adobe Lightroom Your favourite Photographer in 2024 — Woody Lau Which social media platform do you use the most as a photographer? — Flickr Will you use or experiment with NFT in 2024? — No Do you think the always-improving cameras on smartphones will result in less work for professional photographers in 2024? — No What is your motto for 2024? — “If you want to fly, you have to give up what weighs you down.”

Photoshop and Lightroom aren’t always my best friends. ExposureX7 takes up less space on my computer and uses less memory, which has significantly improved my workflow and saved a lot of time. It also has a wide variety of bokeh and texture tools that are great for emulating film.

Any thoughts on the relationship of NFT and photography? It has helped many photographers earn money and get their names out there. I’ve seen a lot of outstanding NFT art in the photography category. I like the idea of turning a photo into something collectible, like a traditional painting.

What is your biggest strength and your biggest weakness as a photographer in 2024? My biggest strength is my boldness. I like meeting new people and often reach out to strangers first, which often leads to interesting and eye-opening conversations. Those conversations, in turn, lead to new photography ideas. My biggest weakness is my ego, which loves attention and recognition. After many years of (small but significant) social media recognition, I’ve gotten used to receiving praise for my work. Now, when I take photos, I mostly think about other people’s opinions and how well my photo will be received. I’m slowly but surely getting rid of that pesky ego!

What is the biggest challenge in your photography genre in 2024? What are the solutions? I think that taking unique photos of people can be a challenge. If you want your photos to stand out, you need to embrace your style, which is a very abstract piece of advice. In my opinion, the best way to overcome this

Can you name one unconventional location or setting that photographers shouldexplore to create memorable images? — In their home

is to consistently experiment with different poses, communicate with your model well, and use light creatively. The most important thing is to tell a story through your photos.

What is the most important factor to consider when choosing a photography niche or specialization in 2024? Do you want photography to be your hobby or your job? If you want to pursue photography professionally, it’s important to pick a genre that will help you pay the bills. What kind of services are needed in your region or country? It’s also important to note that the genre you pick has to be something you’re genuinely interested in. That will make it easier to overcome any obstacle that comes your way.

Is there anything else you would like to add or any final thoughts you would like to share about your artistic journey, inspirations, or the impact you hope to make through your photography? Photography is such an incredible world that’s open to everyone. I hope that more people find ways to express themselves through this medium, and I hope that I can contribute to it positively.

You think we missed an important question? Feel free to both formulate and answer that question here! Any final thoughts? Feel free to add them below. Nobody has lived your life. Nobody has your unique skills and interests in one whole package. Use your strengths wisely and work on your weaknesses. If photography is your calling, embrace it fully and don’t let anyone discourage you. ●

One underrated photography technique that can instantly enhance a photographer’s portfolio. — Filling the frame

In your opinion, which photography trend will dominate the industry in 2024? — Analogue photography

What is the most innovative use of technology you’ve seen in photography recently? — Camera to Cloud technology by Fujifilm

Three must-have photography gadgets or tools for aspiring photographers? — Tripod, Adobe Lightroom, and a photo community app for finding inspiration

Which online platform or marketplace is currently the best for photographers to sell their work and reach a wider audience? — 500px

Name one unconventional source of inspiration that photographers should explore for fresh ideas in 2024. — Fictional books that aren’t related t photography

Who to follow on social media or take inspiration from in 2024? — Woody Lau, Hideaki Hamadav

Silvia Travieso Website: https://www.talesofmelancholia.com Photography Genres: Portrait

Conceptual

Fave Camera Brand: Canon

Sony

Socials:

What’s in your camera bag? • • •

Canon 6D mark II Sigma Art 35mm F1.4 Manfrotto tripod

characterized by high contrast yet soft lighting. Arfully unpolished: : a “no-make-up makeup” approach, a casually disheveled look that leaves behind overly staged scenarios.

How is photography making the world a better place in 2024?

If you could pick a photography mentor in 2024, who would you pick? Why?

In today’s world, where digital tools continually blur the boundaries between reality and fiction, I firmly believe that photography’s unique strength lies in its storytelling ability. Images serve as the primar y communication medium for nearly everything, whether edited, polished, or reinterpreted. Photography is intrinsically linked to the human touch and experience; it offers a meaningful connection to reality and the multitude of stories we have yet to tell.

I’m going to cheat a bit and choose two:

What emerging photography trends do you foresee gaining popularity in 2024?

The unavoidable question: How do you see the use of artificial intelligence or machine learning impacting photography in 2024?

Especially in the realm of conceptual/fine art photography, I’ve noticed a craving towards authenticity and unfilterness. Raw & un p o lish e d o utdo or scen ic p o r traiture: A d e p ar ture f ro m th e meticulously curated compositions and color palettes (Wes Anderson-esque) that have dominated recent years. Maximalism & baroque lighting: Embracing dense images full of textures,

First, Brooke Shaden. Because regardless of the year, she is always a beacon of creativity for the conceptual portraiture realm. Secondly, Rob Woodcox. He has been consistently brilliant for years. But just when you think he’s hit the top, he flips everything around and breaks all the rules bringing the medium to new, innovative depths.

As a conceptual photographer, I’m excited about the possibilities that AI and visual tools bring. They’re expanding the horizons of experimentation, making composite work and editing less reliant on finding the perfect stock image. Photography can’t match the “overperfection” of digital creations, so a shif t toward hyperrealism and raw

aesthetics might be the way for both to coexist in the creative sphere. On the flip side, as AI-generated images gain quality and accessibility, the worth of a photographer’s craf t c o u l d b e c o m e h a rd e r to d i s c e r n . Certain photography niches more than others (stock photography is the first that comes to mind) may feel the impact more significantly than others.

What is your favorite photographyrelated book or resource that will continue to have a significant impact on your career in 2024? Why? It is a bit of a left-field choice, but it will have to be “The Dictionary of Obscure Sorrows” by John Koening. g. While not a photography book per se, my work being heavily conceptual, this collection of his—collection of brand new words to express feelings we don’t have (yet) words for —has been my primary source of inspiration this year, and I’ll carry it into 2024 for sure!

Wh a t i s yo u r g o -to m e t h o d f o r overcoming creative block and finding inspiration in 2024? I toggle between two strategies in this scenario: One is shifting my energy to different mediums or projects, although consciously avoiding those that might frustrate or fuel perfectionism.

The other approach is a “JUST DO IT” mindset. When I’m in a healthy mental state, I directly face the challenge. With paper or an app, I freely note down ideas with zero expectations; something may eventually click. Also, actively engaging in conversation with creative friends and, being a natureportraiturist myself, exploring new locations. If nothing sparks, at least I’ve had fresh air for the day!

If you could give one piece of advice to a beginner in photography, what would it be?

What is your biggest strength and your biggest weakness as a photographer in 2024?

What is the most important factor to consider when choosing a photography niche or specialization in 2024?

If you’re feeling that creative itch, let it out. Instead of just thinking about it too much, grab a camera and take some shots, whatever comes to mind. Embrace your lack of knowledge, rules, techniques or equipement—just experiment and see what clicks for you, what makes you happier; yes, happier. Try not to aim for perfection as much as you can. Take terrible photos and laugh about it.

I would say my biggest strength lies in, after many years of struggle, finally being able to recognize and embrace my own personal visual style. Being able to communicate through images and telling stories that can resonate with people.

That you like it and feel passionate about it. ●

Do- try- fail- have fun.

C a n yo u s h a r e a s p e c i f i c t o o l , technology, or sof tware that has revolutionized your workflow and significantly enhanced your creative process as a photographer? It may sound silly and outdated, but as a creative-slash-conceptual portraiturist who heavily edits her photos, I can’t believe it took me so long to start editing with a graphic tablet! It completely changed my workflow and made me feel so much more in control of my pieces. As well, staying up-to-date with the new tools and developments in my editing software is crucial to feeling comfortable with my creative process.

On the flip side, I struggle with the invisible pressure to keep up with the latest trends and the heavy shift towards video content. As an intense editing photographer, I also find it challenging to strike a balance between dedicating an obsessive amount of time and detail to each piece and remembering that we exist in a fast-paced, high-demand consumption cycle of visual content.

What is the biggest challenge in your photography genre in 2024? What are the solutions? Fighting the sentiment of needing to “compete” with AI images, I’m concerned this might lead people and clients to undervalue the effort, process, and craftsmanship behind creating compelling conceptual images.

Just experiment and see what clicks for you.

Favourite photography digital tool in 2024 — Adobe Photoshop Your favourite Photographer in 2024 — Oprisco Which social media platform do you use the most as a photographer? — Instagram Will you use or experiment with NFT in 2024? — No Do you think the always-improving cameras on smartphones will result in less work for professional photographers in 2024? — No

What is your motto for 2024? — “Become it.” In your opinion, which photography trend will dominate the industry in 2024? — Maximalism and boldness. Three must-have photography gadgets or tools for aspiring photographers? — 50mm lense, Photoshop, and YouTube.

One underrated photography technique that can instantly enhance a photographer’s portfolio. — Build your own props. Create your own bank of stock images. What is the most innovative use of technology you’ve seen in photography recently? — All of Adobe’s new features in Photoshop/Lightroom.

Name one unconventional source of inspiration that photographers should explore for fresh ideas in 2024. — Architecture and interior design trends.

John Ricard Website: https://www.johnricard.com Photography Genres: Fashion Editorial

Headshot

Portrait

Street

Fave Camera Brand: Nikon

Leica

Socials:

What’s in your camera bag? • • • • • • • • •

Nikon Z9 Nikon Z7 Leica M10 Leica M10 Monochrom Leica M9 Nikon 17-35mm, 24-70mm, 70-200mm Leica 35mm Summilux, 75mm Summarit Profoto A1 flash Profoto B2 Strobes

Are there any specific equipment or gear innovations that you believe will have a significant impact on the industry in 2024? AI being embedded into professional cameras much like it is embedded in cell phones. This will enable even more people to take professional quality photographs quickly and easily. It will be beneficial to the art of photography, but it will also likely be harmful to the professional of photography since more regular people will be able to produce great photographs without hiring an outside photographer.

Where do you get the latest news on new gear? Where do you usually buy new gear? I am a senior writer for Fstoppers, so I get a lot of news there and on PetaPixel. I also follow YouTubers like Peter McKinnon and Tony Northrop. I buy new gear at BH Photo and used gear at KEH.com.

How is photography making the world a better place in 2024?

experiment and come up with new ways of making art.

I’m not sure that it is making the world a better place. On an individual basis, however, photography allows people to capture their own personal memories, and that is a truly beautiful thing. Photography also helps document social problems, I suppose. A lot of misconduct by police officers has been documented by regular people using cell phones.

The unavoidable question: How do you see the use of artificial intelligence or machine learning impacting photography in 2024?

What emerging photography trends do you foresee gaining popularity in 2024? Cameras will continue to get more and more technological advances. Oddly, a lot of people can’t even operate half of these features. Many of them are not truly necessary to the process of taking good photographs. Autofocus, for example, keeps getting more advanced and more features are constantly being added to cameras. Meanwhile, it isn’t that hard to get an infocus photograph of someone who is just standing in front of your camera posing for a picture. Some of these extra features also take away some of the fun of shooting. The camera does so much of the work that all we are doing is pushing a shutter button.

If you could pick a photography mentor in 2024, who would you pick? Why? Jeremy Cowart. He’s a great photographer and very innovative. He’s always willing to

I have taken online quizzes where they show a series of photographs and ask you to decide which is the real photograph and which is the AI photograph. It is already hard to distinguish between real and computer generated imagery even though the technology is still very new. I can only imagine that AI will get even better with every passing month. It is funny to me that photographers are quick to use AI based retouching programs like Retouch4Me and Evoto to replace retouchers, but then they think AI based technology can never replace the photographer. I think they are mistaken and that AI will replace photographers in some areas. Headshot photography is the area I expect to be hit the hardest by AI generated imagery.

What is your favorite photographyrelated book or resource that will continue to have a significant impact on your career in 2024? Why? No one particular source. I suppose YouTube would be the most logical answer. The only problem with YouTube, though, is that there are a ton of working professionals who are not sharing their workflow or secrets on

I’m unsure about the whole NFT and Crypto thing. I bought 1 NFT from a photographer who would build a whole virtual community for people who bought his NFT, but that project seems to be totally dead in the water. I wasted like $2,000, I think, on that NFT. I don’t think NFTs as we know them today will ever be a thing. I’m hoping Crypto comes back into being profitable. I invested quite a bit into it, but it was a losing investment for me.

What is your biggest strength and your biggest weakness as a photographer in 2024? I am an expert in posing people, lighting and subjects and composing a photograph. My biggest weakness is often a need for more motivation to work on personal projects. I tend to be more motivated by client work than personal work.

What is the biggest challenge in your photography genre in 2024? What are the solutions? One of my main areas of focus is Headshot Photography. AI can already create a headshot for someone if that person supplies a series of self-images to an AI interface. I believe this technology will get better in a year or two. I can see AI having a devastating impact on headshot photography. I see AI hurting this genre more than any other genre. I don’t think wedding photographers, for example, have anything to worry about.

What is the most important factor to consider when choosing a photography niche or specialization in 2024? If you want to make money, pick something boring that people will pay for. If you want to shoot for yourself, focus on photographing YouTube. So, we viewers are often getting a distorted view of the industry because we are learning from bloggers instead of actual working photographers. I know several fulltime working photographers who have never made a YouTube video. These photographers have a lot of valuable information, but it is unshared with the masses.

have something that they are drawn to photograph and share with the world.

If you could give one piece of advice to a beginner in photography, what would it be?

Lightroom was a milestone. I kept wishing for something like that to be invented when I first went digital. Photoshop is designed for working on a single image. LR is designed to manage and adjust thousands of images very quickly. Photo Mechanic is another indispensable program for me. I use it to name photographs, move them into folders and write captions. LR can do these tasks, but Photo Mechanic does it much better.

Shoot what interests you. When I first started shooting, I was always focused on shooting images that I thought would sell. It didn’t occur to me to also photograph whatever I personally found interesting about a scene. I was always thinking about my client first. I think a new photographer should learn their craft so they understand composition and exposure and things like that, but they should also develop their vision and

C a n yo u s h a r e a s p e c i f i c t o o l , technology, or sof tware that has revolutionized your workflow and significantly enhanced your creative process as a photographer?

Shoot what interests you.

Any thoughts on the relationship of NFT and photography? 31

what you love -dogs, car races, flowers, whatever. To create your best work, you will need to be motivated, which will come from your love of the subject matter.

Is there anything else you would like to add or any final thoughts you would like to share about your artistic journey, inspirations, or the impact you hope to make through your photography? Sometimes, I worry about where photography is headed in terms of being a viable career path for a talented artist. However, my love for using my camera to connect with people and to share their stories has never died. I love taking pictures today as much as I did decades ago. I’m still excited by new technology. Getting my Z9 was as exacting as getting my Nikon F4 so long ago. I am looking forward to eventually getting a Leica M11.

You think we missed an important question? Feel free to both formulate and answer that question here! Any final thoughts? Feel free to add them below. Is there anything you think camera manufacturers are doing wrong? Yes, I think they need to make cameras that are truly different from the other cameras in their lineup. Sony, for example, makes all sorts of A7rMKIV and A7MKIII and A7rMkV. Is there really anything different about these various models? Not really. The images and shooting experience are mostly the same. Leica, on the other hand, made a regular M10, a black and white version of the M10 and an M10 with no rear LCD screen. These two cameras are dramatically different, even though they were variations of the same model. These three cameras were more different than Sony cameras that came out over a period of 5 years. More companies need to be bold enough to make truly unique cameras. Neither Sony, no Canon, nor Nikon makes a really stripped-down, simple ●

Favourite photography digital tool in 2024 — Retouch4Me is working for my headshot photography retouching. However, the interface is not well designed, and the plug-in runs very slowly. If they could make it run smoother and make the interface less ugly, it would be good. Your favourite Photographer in 2024 — Jeremy Cowart. Which photography conference, workshop, event, exhibition, etc., would you recommend to photographers in 2024? — Photo Plus in NYC and anything hosted by BH Photo. Which social media platform do you use the most as a photographer? — Instagram. I do a daily photo project known as a 365 Project there. Will you use or experiment with NFT in 2024? — No Do you think the always-improving cameras on smartphones will result in less work for professional photographers in 2024? — Yes

Can you name one unconventional location or setting that photographers shouldexplore to create memorable images? — Shooting in the rain. Every photographer talks about how weather-sealed a camera is, but you never see photos taken in the actual rain. If you google “photographs taken in the rain,” you see a bunch of photos of rain on a pane of a glass window taken from inside a house. So why is the obsession with weather sealing on cameras if no one is actually shooting in the rain?

One underrated photography technique that can instantly enhance a photographer’s portfolio. — For street photography, stop shooting buildings, funny signs and reflections. Approach people and ask them if you can take a quick portrait.

In your opinion, which photography trend will dominate the industry in 2024? — Selfies -unfortunately. And a lot of videos.

Which online platform or marketplace is currently the best for photographers to sell their work and reach a wider audience? — I’m with Getty Images, and it works well for me.

Must-have photography gadgets or tools for aspiring photographers? — Knowledge of manually setting exposure. Name one unconventional source of inspiration that photographers should explore for fresh ideas in 2024. — Old black and white movies.

What is the most innovative use of technology you’ve seen in photography recently? — Jeremy Coward doing 60-second photo shoots and creating dozens of strong mages in under one minute.

Who to follow on social media or take inspiration from in 2024? — Jeremy Cowart What is your motto for 2024? — “Shoot every day.”

Julee Ho Website: https://juleeho.com Photography Genres: Food

Fave Camera Brand: Canon

Socials:

What’s in your camera bag? • • •

Canon 6D 50mm lens 100mm macro lens

Where do you get the latest news on new gear? Where do you usually buy new gear? I’m not a big gearhead. I spend most of my resources on education and improving my food photography and storytelling expertise.

How is photography making the world a better place in 2024? When done right, photography and video production can make us feel deeply connected to one another. Intentional visual production that dives deep into a brand and the real people behind it creates a feeling of trust, relatability and a true sense of the human experience. As the world becomes more digital and AI becomes more accessible and utilized, the importance of seeing real people and hearing real stories through real voices has never been greater. Outside of being physically present with others, there’s no better vehicle to tell these stories and foster those emotions than through photography and video.

What emerging photography trends do you foresee gaining popularity in 2024? I think all trends are cyclical, and what’s

trending is typically seen as “different” during that moment. In the product and food photography space over the past few years, we saw trends going from soft kitchen-like setups to bold pops of color and hard light to retro patterns and grainy edits. I anticipate more use of vibrant colors and eccentric props in 2024, with editing styles that intentionally make images feel vintage.

If you could pick a photography mentor in 2024, who would you pick? Why? I love learning from many folks as opposed to one in particular. For me, it’s all about the creative ideation and story behind an image or video. I’ve gotten inspiration from food bloggers, large agencies, and everything in between. Two brands that come to mind when I think of highly creative food photography are Halo Top and Omsom. Halo Top has been a pioneer in over-the-top setups combined with beautiful artwork and graphic design for some time. Omsom is bold and unapologetically unconventional. They make their own rules regarding creative direction, and I greatly respect their work.

The unavoidable question: How do you see the use of artificial intelligence or machine learning impacting photography in 2024? It really depends on how AI advances in 2024, the usability of those advancements,

and people’s acceptance of the technology. For example, when ChatGPT was released, it changed how we could create written content overnight. And that was because it was easy to use, free to access, and it worked. However, it’s still very underutilized because many people still don’t understand it or reject the idea of it altogether. I’ve tested some of the AI imagery platforms, such as Dall-E and Canva’s tool, and it’s not quite there yet from a food photography perspective. Barring drastic advancements in the tech, it will likely be leveraged more for ideation in 2024.

What is your favorite photography-related book or resource that will continue to have a significant impact on your career in 2024? Why? I don’t read many photography-related books, but I consume a lot of business-related content. I’ve found Chris Do’s content on YouTube to be particularly helpful as he speaks a lot about business in the creative space; I appreciate the business tactics shared by Alex Hormozi, and I’m currently in a Mastermind that’s helping me more with visual storytelling and working only with clients whose values align with mine. Some of my favorite business books of all time are McDonald’s: Behind the Arches by John F. Love, Shoe Dog by Phil Knight, Originals by Adam Grant, and Different by Youngme Moon. They inspire me to work hard, serve others, and not be afraid to go against the grain.

What is your go-to method for overcoming creative block and finding inspiration in 2024? I’ve done a lot of work this year to reset my expectations on motivation. I used to think motivation came and went, and I just had to roll with the punches. And I was envious of people who seemed to be motivated all the time. But I learned that no one is always motivated, but the difference between the greats and everyone else is that they do the hard work, even when they don’t feel like it. So, setting the expectation for myself that I will have ups and downs in mood and motivation, and that’s completely okay and normal, will help me move forward. Because no matter how inspired I feel (or not), I know I will put my best effort into my work.

If you could give one piece of advice to a beginner in photography, what would it be?

What is your biggest strength and your biggest weakness as a photographer in 2024?

space that our value does not come from being the cheapest on the market. Our value is our creativity.

Always be learning, invest in training, and practice every single day.

My biggest strength is my creativity and fostering relationships with clients. I’ve never cared much about my equipment because I knew those technologies would evolve and make my ability to operate them obsolete. So, my focus is more on ideation and storytelling. I can connect with my clients and immerse myself in their story, their “why”, and their vision for their brand. From that, I can craft visuals that authentically connect with their audience.

What is the most important factor to consider when choosing a photography niche or specialization in 2024?

Learning constantly and consistently is a lifelong endeavor. And it’s absolutely crucial for freelancers and business owners. The reason is that there are seasons in everyone’s career and entrepreneurial journey where only certain advice will be beneficial. For example, when I started in food photography, I didn’t have the luxury of picking and choosing who I work with or even getting paid for my work. So, while I agree with the idea that photographers should be respected and properly compensated for their talents, that doesn’t really apply to someone who is just starting their portfolio.

Can you share a specific tool, technology, or software that has revolutionized your workflow and significantly enhanced your creative process as a photographer? I don’t use any highly advanced or revolutionary tool, but I think creating systems has helped me with my creative process and ensuring my clients get what they need. For example, during the first six months of my business, I kept track of the common questions I would ask clients at the start of a project and turned that into a kickoff questionnaire I’ve sent to every client since. It removes the constant back and forth via email and scheduling multiple calls. So it’s a simple concept but it saved me more time than anything else.

Select a niche that is 1) in a growing market; 2) in an area that you find interesting / care about; 3) in a vertical that you already have expertise in, or that you are willing to invest time, energy and resources into learning.

My biggest weakness is delegation. I feel so passionately about my work that I often feel compelled to oversee every detail. I’m working on being a better leader and entrusting other very talented people with this important work.

What is the biggest challenge in your photography genre in 2024? What are the solutions? The biggest challenge is probably the commoditization of product and food photography. There are larger companies with lots of VC funding using models focusing on volume and transactions. They typically pay their photographers very poorly and offer services at next-to-nothing rates with the goal of achieving economies of scale. As a business owner, I have nothing against these companies, and fortunately, my company delivers a level of quality that allows us not to have to compete with them directly. However, it’s a reminder for many in our

Always be learning, invest in training, and practice every single day.

Is there anything else you would like to add or any final thoughts you would like to share about your artistic journey, inspirations, or the impact you hope to make through your photography? Julee Ho Media has always focused on food and beverage photography with a passion for serving the founders and teams who run these companies. Through this service commitment, we will continue producing the most exceptional food product photography and videos. This year and into the future, our focus is to connect more with the individuals behind these brands, to tell their stories and share their values for the company. We believe this type of emotional storytelling is the future and will serve as true differentiators for the folks who have the courage to get in front of a camera and share their journeys. We are so excited to serve more incredible companies through these immersive brand story videos. ●

Which photography conference, workshop, event, exhibition, etc., would you recommend to photographers in 2024? — Join a mastermind. Which social media platform do you use the most as a photographer? — Instagram. Will you use or experiment with NFT in 2024? — No

Do you think the always-improving cameras on smartphones will result in less work for professional photographers in 2024? — Yes What is your motto for 2024? — “Shoot every day.”

Which online platform or marketplace is currently the best for photographers to sell their work and reach a wider audience — Organic and personalized outreach to their dream clients on a daily basis.

Name one unconventional source of inspiration that photographers should explore for fresh ideas in 2024. — Business books, podcasts, and YouTube videos.

Scott Smorra Website: https://www.scottsmorra.com Photography Genres: Adventure

Fine-art

Landscape

Nature

Fave Camera Brand: Nikon

Socials:

What’s in your camera bag? • • • • • • •

Nikon Z7 Nikon Z7ii Nikon Z 14-24 f/2.8 Nikon Z 24-70 f/4 Nikon Z 100-400 f4.5-5.6 DJI Air 2S Gitzo tripod, Really Right Stuff ball head

Are there any specific equipment or gear innovations that you believe will have a significant impact on the industry in 2024? Continued improvements in IBIS.

Where do you get the latest news on new gear? Where do you usually buy new gear? Emails from Nikon Professional Services (NPS). I buy directly from NPS.

How is photography making the world a better place in 2024? Hopefully photographs inspire people to conserve and protect the natural world.

What emerging photography trends do you foresee gaining popularity in 2024? I see AI-generated images gaining popularity in 2024. Some people consider these images to be photography, but I disagree. To me, a photograph must be captured by a camera

and lens (photons hitting a sensor or film). I don’t care what is done to the image in postprocessing, but it needs to be captured by a camera to be considered photography.

If you could pick a photography mentor in 2024, who would you pick? Why? Guy Tal. I am always inspired by his writing and how he creates personally expressive art with a camera.

The unavoidable question: How do you see the use of artificial intelligence or machine learning impacting photography in 2024? I believe AI-generated images will create confusion for viewers of photography. I’m already seeing this on social media. Proper disclosure is very important to help viewers understand the context of how an image was created.

What is your favorite photographyrelated book or resource that will continue to have a significant impact on your career in 2024? Why? “More than a Rock” by Guy Tal. When This is my go-to book when I need inspiration.

Wh a t i s yo u r g o -to m e t h o d f o r overcoming creative block and finding inspiration in 2024? I study the work of painters. I observe how

they use light and composition to move the eye through a scene. I then incorporate the techniques into my work.

If you could give one piece of advice to a beginner in photography, what would it be? Get out and practice as much as you can. It takes years to learn how to capture images correctly in the field and then post-process them effectively. I’ve been shooting for about 13 years, and I’m still learning new techniques. You need to know exactly what to do (and how to do it quickly) so you don’t miss capturing an image in the field.

C a n yo u s h a r e a s p e c i f i c t o o l , technology, or sof tware that has revolutionized your workflow and significantly enhanced your creative process as a photographer? Lightroom Classic and Photoshop.

Any thoughts on the relationship of NFT and photography? I think there is a future for NFTs since blockchain technology is an excellent way to show the provenance of a digital image. I like how NFT ownership is easy to prove and how artists can grant NFT owners special perks for owning an NFT. I don’t like how difficult it is to purchase NFTs. Most platforms require NFTs to be bought using cryptocurrency, which is a major barrier to mainstream adoption.

What is your biggest strength and your biggest weakness as a photographer in 2024? Strength - I am highly motivated and driven to create, market and sell my art/ photography. Weakness - not enough time to create art

Is there anything else you would like to add or any final thoughts you would like to share about your artistic journey, inspirations, or the impact you hope to make through your photography? I think it’s important for photographers to think about why they create photos. Starting with the why has helped me develop and refine my own creative process. ●

I think it’s important for photographers to think about why they create photos.

Favourite photography digital tool in 2024 — Lightroom Classic Your favourite Photographer in 2024 — Guy Tal Which photography conference, workshop, event, exhibition, etc., would you recommend to photographers in 2024? — Nature Photographers Network Which social media platform do you use the most as a photographer? — Instagram and Facebook Will you use or experiment with NFT in 2024? — Yes What is your motto for 2024? — “Keep going!”

Do you think the always-improving cameras on smartphones will result in less work for professional photographers in 2024? — No Three must-have photography gadgets or tools for aspiring photographers? — Lightweight/sturdy tripod, cable/remote release, and a camera bag with easy access to gear. Name one unconventional source of inspiration that photographers should explore for fresh ideas in 2024. — Study the work of painters.

What is the most innovative use of technology you’ve seen in photography recently? — RAW processing in Lightroom/ Adobe Camera Raw. Which online platform or marketplace is currently the best for photographers to sell their work and reach a wider audience? — Instagram Who to follow on social media or take inspiration from in 2024? — Guy Tal, Viktoria Haack, Collen Miniuk, Sarah Marino, and Marc Adamus.

One underrated photography technique that can instantly enhance a photographer’s portfolio. — Intentional camera movement (ICM)

Daniel Kordan Website: https://www.danielkordan.com Photography Genres: Landscape

Nature

Fave Camera Brand: Nikon

Socials:

What’s in your camera bag?

and lifestyles from all corners of the globe.

• • • • • • • • • • • •

What emerging photography trends do you foresee gaining popularity in 2024?

Nikon Z 7 II, 24-70 f/2.8 nikkor S Nikon D800, Nikon D810, D810A Nikkor 14 f/2.8 Nikkor 14-24 f/2.8 Nikkor 24-70 f/2.8 Nikkor 50 mm f/2.8 Nikkor 58 mm f/1.4 Nikkor 70-200 f/2.8 Nikkor 400 mm f/2.8 Tripods and heads: Gitzo Backpack: Gitzo Adventury 45 L Sof tware: Photoshop, Lightroom, Luminar

How is photography making the world a better place in 2024? As Daniel Kordan, a professional landscape photographer, I believe that photography continues to make the world a better place in 2024 through several powerful means: 1 . C onser vation an d Environ m ental Awareness: Through stunning and evocative images, photography plays a crucial role in raising awareness about the beauty and fragility of our planet. As more people connect emotionally with nature through photography, they are motivated to become better stewards of the environment, leading to increased conservation efforts and sustainable practices. 2. Cultural Understanding and Empathy: Photography can capture diverse cultures

In 2024, I foresee several emerging photography trends gaining popularity in the field: 1. AI-Enhanced Photography: With the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence, photography tools and sof tware will continue integrating AI-powered features. This will enable photographers to enhance their images effortlessly, from intelligent editing and retouching to automated composition suggestions, making it easier for photographers to achieve stunning results. 2. V i r tu al an d Au gm e nte d R e al it y Photography: As virtual and augmented reality technologies become more accessible and sophisticated, photographers will explore new creative opportunities.

If you could pick a photography mentor in 2024, who would you pick? Why? In 2024, if I were to choose a photography mentor, it would be Sebastião Salgado. I would pick him for several compelling reasons: 1. Visionary and Impactful Work: Sebastião Salgado is renowned for his powerful and impactful documentary photography. His projects focus on social and environmental

issues, shedding light on the human condition and the planet’s challenges. Learning from him would provide me with insights into using photography as a potent tool for advocacy and positive change. 2. Ethical and Responsible Approach: S a l g a d o’s c o m m i t m e nt to eth i c a l photography aligns with my values. He is known for building trust and rapport with his subjects.

The unavoidable question: How do you see the use of artificial intelligence or machine learning impacting photography in 2024? In 2024, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning will significantly impact photography, revolutionizing how images are captured, processed, and shared. AIpowered features will streamline editing workflows, automate tasks, and enhance creative possibilities. AI-generated filters will offer unique artistic styles, while smart cameras and drones will aid composition and tracking. However, photographers must balance AI’s convenience with preserving their artistic vision and ethical considerations as technology continues to shape the future of photography.

What is your favorite photographyrelated book or resource that will continue to have a significant impact on your career in 2024? Why? In 2024, one photography-related book that will continue to significantly impact my career is “The Photographer’s Eye” by Michael Freeman. This timeless resource explores the fundamental principles of composition and visual storytelling, providing a deep understanding of how to create compelling and impactful images. “The Photographer’s Eye” delves into various compositional techniques, such as framing, balance, and leading lines, helping me refine my artistic vision and craft stronger narratives in my photographs. As I progress in my career, this book serves as a constant source of inspiration and guidance, reminding me of the importance of composition in conveying emotions.

Wh a t i s yo u r g o -to m e t h o d f o r overcoming creative block and finding inspiration in 2024? In 2024, my go-to method for overcoming creative block and finding inspiration is to immerse myself in nature’s beauty

and connect with the environment. I take time to travel to remote and breathtaking landscapes, seeking moments of solitude and reflection. Being surrounded by nature’s wonders sparks my creativity and allows me to see familiar scenes with fresh eyes.

honing your skills. Stay open to feedback, be curious, and most importantly, enjoy the journey. With patience and practice, your photography will evolve and flourish, revealing the unique voice that makes your work truly special.

Additionally, I explore various art forms beyond photography, such as painting, literature, and music. Engaging with diverse artistic expressions stimulates new ideas and perspectives that I can incorporate into my photography.

C a n yo u s h a r e a s p e c i f i c t o o l , technology, or sof tware that has revolutionized your workflow and significantly enhanced your creative process as a photographer?

If you could give one piece of advice to a beginner in photography, what would it be?

Certainly! In 2024, one tool that has revolutionized my workflow and significantly enhanced my creative process as a photographer is the “AI-Enhanced Editing Suite.” This cutting-edge software leverages artificial intelligence to streamline postprocessing tasks and elevate the quality of my images.

To a beginner in photography, my one piece of advice would be to embrace patience and practice consistently. Photography is an art form that requires time, dedication, and persistence to master. Allow yourself the space to make mistakes and learn from them. Each photograph you take is an opportunity to improve, so keep experimenting, exploring different subjects and techniques, and

The AI-Enhanced Editing Suite utilizes machine learning algorithms to analyze and understand the characteristics of my photographs, allowing it to make intelligent suggestions and enhancements tailored to my artistic style. It can quickly and accurately adjust exposure, contrast, color balance, and sharpness, saving me valuable time in the editing process.

Collaborating and networking with fellow artists and photographers is another essential aspect.

What is your biggest strength and your biggest weakness as a photographer in 2024? In 2024, my biggest strength as a photographer remains my deep connection with nature and the ability to capture its essence in my images. My passion for exploring remote landscapes allows me to create unique and evocative photographs that convey a sense of wonder and awe. However, my biggest weakness lies in the tendency to be overly critical of my work. Despite continuous growth, I sometimes struggle to appreciate my achievements fully and tend to be self-critical. Balancing self-improvement with acknowledging my progress is an ongoing challenge, but one that fuels my determination to push boundaries and deliver even more impactful photography. ●

Allow yourself the space to make mistakes and learn from them.

Favourite photography digital tool in 2024 — Editing with Lightroom Your favourite Photographer in 2024 — Salgado Which photography conference, workshop, event, exhibition, etc., would you recommend to photographers in 2024? — Danielkordan.com Greenland red sails Which social media platform do you use the most as a photographer? — Instagram Will you use or experiment with NFT in 2024? — Yes

Which photography trend will dominate the industry in 2024? — Using AI tools

One underrated photography technique that can instantly enhance a photographer’s portfolio. — Color theory

Do you think the always-improving cameras on smartphones will result in less work for professional photographers in 2024? — Yes Three must-have photography gadgets or tools for aspiring photographers? — Mirrorless camera, tripod, filters

What is the most innovative use of technology you’ve seen in photography recently? — Deep night sky photography

Name one unconventional source of inspiration that photographers should explore for fresh ideas in 2024. — Night photography

Which online platform or marketplace is currently the best for photographers to sell their work and reach a wider audience? — Foundation What is your motto for 2024? — “Sustainable travel, nature protection.”

Sarah & Cédric (Coordinotes) Website: https://coordinotes.be/ Photography Genres: Travel

Lifestyle

Adventure

Wildlife

Creative

Fave Camera Brand: Sony

Socials:

What’s in your camera bag? • • • • • •

Sony A7R III Sony FE 16-35 f4.0 Sony FE 55 f1.8 Sony FE 85 f1.8 Sigma 150-600 Sirui T-2004x Traveller

Where do you get the latest news on new gear? Where do You usually buy new gear? I mostly buy my gear in the local camera shop, where I can test every lens before I buy them.

How is photography making the world a better place in 2024? Because of photography we can show the world there is more than just your local place. We can warm people for new adventures and explore other countries/places.

What emerging photography trends do you foresee gaining popularity in 2024? Storytelling photos, every year, more and more.

If you could pick a photography mentor in 2024, who would you pick? Why? ‘Jacob’ on Instagram. His style is really nice and unique.

The unavoidable question: How do you see the use of artificial intelligence or machine learning impacting photography in 2024? It will be difficult for photographers and creative minds over the next few years, but a machine can’t take away the feeling of taking the ‘perfect’ shot. On the other hand, it is also a great tool in the Adobe programs; it can make your work easier. It’s there, and we have to adapt to it.

If you could give one piece of advice to a beginner in photography, what would it be? Try things and keep trying. Take your camera everywhere with you and try different angles on the same object/person. Take your time to learn the skills about editing, and don’t buy cheap presets; make your own. This will improve your editing skills so much more than just copy/paste. ●

What is your favorite photographyrelated book or resource that will continue to have a significant impact on your career in 2024? Why? Instagram is a good way to connect with other photographers and share ideas that are positive for your creativity.

Wh a t i s yo u r g o -to m e t h o d f o r overcoming creative block and finding inspiration in 2024? As said before, Instagram is a great source of creative ideas. Don’t just copy things, but always think about how to ‘improve’ somebody else’s shot by adding your personal touch to it.

Favourite photography digital tool in 2024 — Dropbox Your favourite Photographer in 2024 — Cedric De Smet Which social media platform do you use the most as a photographer? — Instagram, Website Will you use or experiment with NFT in 2024? — Yes Do you think the always-improving cameras on smartphones will result in less work for professional photographers in 2024? — No

Try things and keep trying.

Christian Brockes Website: https://www.wildmacro.de Photography Genres: Macro

Wildlife

Fave Camera Brand: OM System

Socials:

What’s in your camera bag? • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

OM SYSTEM OM-1 OM SYSTEM OM-D E-M1 III OM SYSTEM M.Zuiko Digital ED 90mm f3.5 Macro IS Pro OM SYSTEM M.Zuiko Digital ED 60mm f2.8 OM SYSTEM M.Zuiko Digital ED 30mm f3.5 Macro OM SYSTEM M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-100mm f4.0 IS PRO OM SYSTEM M.Zuiko Digital ED 300mm f4.0 IS PRO OM SYSTEM M.Zuiko 40‑150mm f/2.8 PRO OM SYSTEM M.Zuiko 8-25 f4 PRO Laowa 50mm 2:1 f/2.8 Laowa 15mm f4 Wide Angle Macro Godox V860III Godox V350 Godox MF12 Raynox DCR250 Cygnustech Diffuser & AK Diffuser

Are there any specific equipment or gear innovations that you believe will have a significant impact on the industry in 2024? Macro lighting, diffusion equipment, and specialized macro lenses.

How is photography making the world a better place in 2024? 50

Being a macro photographer, I think wildlife and nature photography can have a huge impact on how we see the world. All this time, where we know there are extreme threats to the survival of many species and destinations all around the globe. Macro photography, in particular, is a window into a tiny world of wonders that most of us have never seen before. The many different and colorful textures and forms of the tiniest creatures are of ten not visible to the naked eye. Fascination can spark interest and also awareness and conservation, which is why I think macro photography is a great ambassador for the things we often do not see.

What emerging photography trends do you foresee gaining popularity in 2024? I think the mixture of media content will be getting more popularity in 2024; mixing video and still image content can be seen a lot already on many social media platforms. Ai-generated content will also play into the mix. In general, every form of photography is constantly getting more popular since access to high-quality photographic gear has increased.

If you could pick a photography mentor in 2024, who would you pick? Why?

Currently, that would probably be Roman Willi, who takes excellent behavioral macro photos. His work is heavily influenced by a documentary style, which is not too prominent in high magnification macro photography yet.

The unavoidable question: How do you see the use of artificial intelligence or machine learning impacting photography in 2024? While AI-generated media are extremely interesting and can also be super realistic, close to a real photo, for example, it is at the same time very important to be able to dif ferentiate between a real and an AI-generated image. As for macro photography in particular, AI is still not able to replicate a real looking macro photo to per fection - but it is coming asonishingly close. AI will greatly impact creative agencies in 2024, as many of them are already using AI-imagery. It will be interesting to see how this can or will threaten p h oto g ra p h e r s’ j o b s i n t h e e n d .

What is your favorite photographyrelated book or resource that will continue to have a significant impact on your career in 2024? Why? The most important resource for me is books on insect and spider species,

mainly for identification purposes, and also feedback/interaction with fellow wi l dl ife m a cro p h oto grap h e rs . Th e community is highly connected, and knowledge regarding specialized tech/ gear or photo locations and destinations is often passed on by word-of-mouth.

Wh a t i s yo u r g o -to m e t h o d f o r overcoming creative block and finding inspiration in 2024? My method to overcome creative block is usually a mixture of stepping back and focusing on other things. Being out in nature helps a lot to free your mind and is a great environment for relaxation and finding inspiration. I also like to look at completely different fields of photography to find inspiration there and then try to incorporate new concepts into my own photographic workflow and style.

If you could give one piece of advice to a beginner in photography, what would it be? Getting inspiration is a great start, but it is important to be able to take a step back sometimes and stop the constant comparing. Especially since social media encourage this, while most of the time important information is missing to really understand what you see or read. Also, failing is completely natural and normal - try to learn from failures and get better through them. When it comes to macro photography in particular, my best piece of advice would be (if you are using a flash): get a customized diffuser!

C a n yo u s h a r e a s p e c i f i c t o o l , technology, or sof tware that has revolutionized your workflow and significantly enhanced your creative process as a photographer? The OM SYSTEM cameras have sped up my macro workflow a lot, with features like focus bracketing, and focus stacking and being a very lightweight and compact system, which makes it perfect for fieldwork. Probably one of the most important pieces of gear for macro photography with flash is a macro diffuser. Using one will instantly increase your image and lighting quality. On the software side, the Topaz suite with Sharpen AI, Gigapixel and DeNoise offers me all options for the perfect finetuning of my highly detailed photos.

Any thoughts on the relationship of NFT and photography? As with every collectible, the concept of NFT is interesting but a bit too exclusive for my personal taste due to the access. To me, Photography is best enjoyed printed big.

What is your biggest strength and your biggest weakness as a photographer in

2024? A big strength is that I am currently very confident with my gear and workflow, which is optimized to effectively take photos under challenging conditions with a high hit rate. While trying out new gear is fun, and improving often requires adapting to the latest trends, it is also a great advantage to have a stable system, which you can even use with your eyes closed and without the need to constantly learn and experiment (which of course is still a great thing to do). A weakness is the lack of time to travel to the many destinations on the map, always on the lookout for insects and spiders. An important ingredient to macro photography is patience, which I sometimes struggle to find.

What is the biggest challenge in your photography genre in 2024? What are the solutions? In macro photography the biggest challenges for a macro photographer are mostly lighting and magnification. For 2024, I am looking forward to the development and release of more high magnification gear and macro-specialized lenses and flashes, although there are great solutions available yet for this. With macro photography being a niche, this is all very dependent on the big brands/manufacturers) and how they weigh this field of photography in their product portfolio.

Wildlife photography is a wonderful tool to create a change in attitude and perspective and can be part of a bigger process when it comes to conservation through fascination. Photographing creatures that most people have not seen nor known that they existed also documents the immense diversity of nature’s wonders and opens up a new perspective to our urban point of view. This is what makes macro photography so fascinating - both for the photographer and the viewer.

You think we missed an important question? Feel free to both formulate and answer that question here! Any final thoughts? Feel free to add them below. What are the most important ingredients to creating stunning imagery? While high-quality gear can sometimes make the difference, most of the time, the quality of your photos is not dependent on gear alone. Knowing how to use it and having a vision is what makes your photography stand out. Having a signature style, a very specialized niche, or simply a different take on something can add to your photos and make them stand out from the many others. There are a lot of ingredients to the perfect image, and often, you can make up for some deficiencies with something else. ●

What is the most important factor to consider when choosing a photography niche or specialization in 2024? I think it is important to find a specialization that is truly a niche but at the same time is seomthing that really makes you happy. It does not help to occupy a niche which you do not like just for the sake of it being a niche. When you enjoy what you do, a job feels like fun, and success will most likely follow automatically, depending o n th e scal e of th e e n d e a vo u rs . Finding and connecting/communicating/ interacting with other people, focusing on the same niche, is equally important to create an audience and should be part of the thought process.

Is there anything else you would like to add or any final thoughts you would like to share about your artistic journey, inspirations, or the impact you hope to make through your photography? Cl i m ate c h an g e an d h abitat l os s threaten a lot of species. Knowledge and understanding may lead to acceptance and respect towards many of these creatures.

Wildlife and Nature Photography can have a huge impact on how we see the world.

Joel Robison Website: http://www.joelrobison.com Photography Genres: Conceptual

Fine Art

Fave Camera Brand: Sony

Socials:

What’s in your camera bag? • • • • • • • •

Main Body: Sony A7riv Backup: Sony A7riii Sony 85mm 1.4, Sigma 35mm 1.4 Sony 50mm 1.4 Vanguard Altra Pro tripod Vanguard camera bag LumeCube lighting for wireless lights if needed.

Where do you get the latest news on new gear? Where do you usually buy new gear? I usually buy gear from Sony directly or from local camera shops. Sometimes, I will buy gear from MPB if the quality is good and the price is fair. I get photography gear news directly from PetaPixel or Sony.

How is photography making the world a better place in 2024? Photography provides an escape from reality at times. It shows the beauty of the world but can also be used to inform others of what is happening. In an age of misinformation, it can be used to document real events. I think my photography makes the world (or at least my world) better by showing a more gentle, whimsical view of the world and promoting a sense of calm and wonder.

What emerging photography trends do you foresee gaining popularity in 2024? 54

Unfortunately, I see using AI mixed with photography as a trend. I don’t agree with it, but I can already see it taking over the industry.

allow my mind to wander where it needs to go, and usually, that helps me overcome any creative block.

If you could pick a photography mentor in 2024, who would you pick? Why?

If you could give one piece of advice to a beginner in photography, what would it be?

Wayne Simpson. He has a fantastic work ethic, and his images are incredibly powerful and meaningful. He is able to capture images with such beautiful light.

Do it for yourself first. Find joy in what you’re creating without the pressure of pleasing anyone else and certainly without the stress of trying to perform for an algorithm.

The unavoidable question: How do you see the use of artificial intelligence or machine learning impacting photography in 2024?

C a n yo u s h a r e a s p e c i f i c t o o l , technology, or sof tware that has revolutionized your workflow and significantly enhanced your creative process as a photographer?

I see it making our work even more important because it will be up to real photos with metadata to document events in real-time. I think it will make certain genres much harder to gain any sort of foothold in and will likely make it very hard for many artists to continue to make money or pursue photography full-time.

Wh a t i s yo u r g o -to m e t h o d f o r overcoming creative block and finding inspiration in 2024? I give myself permission to take a step back and to spend time building up the other areas of my life that make me who I am; doing that gives my mind a rest and allows it to start to filter through ideas again. I allow myself time each day to daydream and to

Using the Surface Studio has greatly impacted my workflow. Working on a large touchscreen surface has made it easier to edit and has made my work stronger and cleaner.

Any thoughts on the relationship of NFT and photography? It’s not something I’m interested in.

What is your biggest strength and your biggest weakness as a photographer in 2024? My biggest strength is my ability to see wonder and whimsy in a world that sometimes makes it difficult to do so. My

biggest weakness is lacking the confidence to pursue all the ideas or meet my own potential.

What is the biggest challenge in your photography genre in 2024? What are the solutions? In my genre, the biggest challenge is AI and trying to find a way to keep creating without relying on it. I think the best solution is to continue to push for more limits on its usage and to push them to compensate artists who have had their work used without permission.

What is the most important factor to consider when choosing a photography niche or specialization in 2024? Only do it because you love it. ●

Find joy in what you’re creating without the pressure of pleasing anyone

Favourite photography digital tool in 2024 — Photoshop Your favourite Photographer in 2024 — Lizzy Gadd Which photography conference, workshop, event, exhibition, etc., would you recommend to photographers in 2024? — AdobeMax Which social media platform do you use the most as a photographer? — Instagram Will you use or experiment with NFT in 2024? — No

Which photography trend will dominate the industry in 2024? — AI Do you think the always-improving cameras on smartphones will result in less work for professional photographers in 2024? — No Three must-have photography gadgets or tools for aspiring photographers? — Notebook, sturdy tripod, and more memory cards than you think you need.

Can you name one unconventional location or setting that photographers should explore to create memorable images? — Their own backyard. Who to follow on social media or take inspiration from in 2024? — Kris Andres What is your motto for 2024? — “Stay focused on what brings joy.”

Name one unconventional source of inspiration that photographers should explore for fresh ideas in 2024. — Libraries or bookstores

Julia Wimmerlin Website: https://www.juliawimmerlin.com Photography Genres: Fine Art Nude

Fine Art

Portrait

Travel

Fave Camera Brand: Canon

Socials:

What’s in your camera bag? • • • • • • • •

Canon R5 24-105mm f/4 70-200mm f/2.8 16-35mm f/2.8 Canon R5 24-105mm f/4 70-200mm f/2.8 16-35mm f/2.8

Are there any specific equipment or gear innovations that you believe will have a significant impact on the industry in 2024? Artificial Intelligence

Where do you get the latest news on new gear? Where do you usually buy new gear? I buy my equipment depending on where I’m living. So most recently Switzerland and Asia in the past. I haven’t bought much equipment lately since I have the most things I need. And for where I find the latest news, I read a lot of blogs, and I get some niche gear information from the artists I follow.

How is photography making the world a better place in 2024? I’m Ukrainian, thus I’m living through a very difficult period, and both documentary and art photography is my main tool to spread the message about what my country is going

through. It helped me to live through 2022. So, photography is making the world a better place through the possibility of documenting the truth on one side and reflection and healing through art photography on the other side. Many people who suffered a great stress or depression resort to photography as a healing process. They see it as a way to digest and accept what is happening.

What emerging photography trends do you foresee gaining popularity in 2024? There are two distinctive trends I see. One is for something exuberant, very bright, very out of the ordinary, very escapist, arty, going to the extremes, and bordering on abstract. Elizaveta Porodina and Rafael Pavarotti are good examples here. The other one is where it’s all returning to basics, to the beauty of small things, the beauty of daily life. The examples would be Wolfgang Tillmans and Chris Rhodes. I would say that these are two opposite yet complimentary trends – and I guess I see less of what’s happening in the middle.

If you could pick a photography mentor in 2024, who would you pick? Why? So, I would base this on the previously mentioned trends. For example, for anything to do with exuberance or extravagantness and being out of this world, it would be Elizaveta Porodina. And for the real close to life, everyday beauty trends would be Wolfgang Tillmans and Chris Rhodes.

The unavoidable question: How do you see the use of artificial intelligence or machine learning impacting photography in 2024? It has a strong impact, and we already see it happening. But a lot of people see it as a threat; I don’t see it as a threat. Clearly, for certain jobs, especially commercial ones where you have to do simple stock photography, still-life, or lifestyle, then yes, those jobs could go to AI. But I love how it can help you create your own world and enrich your photography. You can use AI as a mood board, you can use your own prompts, and you can come up with ideas that you would never have thought of before. Or you can even create and merge with your photos to enrich compositing, creating double exposure, or even morphing - it’s really up to the photographer.

What is your favorite photographyrelated book or resource that will continue to have a significant impact on your career in 2024? Why? The books I read and would definitely recommend - are Steal Like an Artist” by Austin Kleon, “Ways of Seeing” by John Berger, “And why it Does Not Have to Be in Focus. Modern photography explained” Jackie Higgins. As for resources, I often use Instagram, but I don’t follow it blindly. There are artists I follow, artists galleries, or museums.

I prefer to see curated work and those that have stood the test of time. By that, I follow the classics; the classics come in all sorts of styles and genres.

Wh a t i s yo u r g o -to m e t h o d f o r overcoming creative block and finding inspiration in 2024? I follow classical works, such as Helmut Newton and Erwing Blumenfeld, they give you direction, and then you study them to see how much repetition has been happening over the years. I like to go back to what’s been curated to be able to educate myself; I look at original work and use that as a reference. Sometimes, you will see a simple shot, and it will spark an idea, and that doesn’t mean you have to recreate it; it means that it gives you an inspiration to go somewhere. I say this to my students - when nothing inspires you, take something you’ve never realized but you’ve thought about it; even if it’s simple, still do it. Because in the process of doing so, you will start having new ideas.

If you could give one piece of advice to a beginner in photography, what would it be? I see a lot of beginner photographers who look at the latest internet trends and Instagram stories and think they have to repeat what they see. What they don’t realize is that it’s a repetition of a repetition of a repetition, and I’ve seen this so many times. I see the same picture taken over and over, and no one knows who took it first. And whoever did take it first, it was revolutionary at the time, but over so many repetitions, it has lost its essence and pure effect. So I prefer to go to the source, and I advise going to the beginning of photography and seeing the originals.

C a n yo u s h a r e a s p e c i f i c t o o l , technology, or sof tware that has revolutionized your workflow and significantly enhanced your creative process as a photographer? Capture One, especially for any studio work. I would highly recommend everyone to use this tool. It was originally developed for tethering, and it is completely unbeatable at that. It also allows for a different way of editing, and it revolutionized my workflow.

Any thoughts on the relationship of NFT and photography? I tried NFT as a 500px ambassador when they launched an NFT platform in May 2022. A leader in their field, 500px promoted the launch, I had a couple of works sold, and that’s pretty much it. After the hype is gone, just like anything else, you need to work on it for it to work. After all it’s a type of social media where you also need to be social, create your fan base, create art more suitable for NFT. It’s a lot to do for a specific media channel, and you need to have your niche. You need to love it to do it; if you’re doing it just to be present in all the channels, then I don’t think it’s worth it.

What is your biggest strength and your biggest weakness as a photographer in 2024? For weakness, I didn’t think I needed a niche because I believed you could do a little bit of everything - but now it no longer works because I matured with what I’m doing, and I understand now that you need a style and niche, but you have to decide on it. When you like everything, it’s wonderful, but it will not help you as a photographer. I’m trying to find that niche and really struggling, but it won’t be by genre, but it will be by style (using certain frames, specific colors, or specific looks).

My strengths come from my weaknesses; I can learn very quickly by learning different techniques and genres. By having a quick reaction, I can think on the spot and know what works for me.

What is the biggest challenge in your photography genre in 2024? What are the solutions? The biggest challenge would be defining that niche and making a portfolio of very cohesive work. For example, popular travel photography is very postcard style. There are different styles of that postcard look, but the main trend is everything is perfect and beautiful; however, everything that’s perfect can be boring. I want to go beyond that personally, I would make it more authentic, more creative, or even dreamier. I want to make a work of art out of it rather than a postcard - or move it from a postcard to a painting so that you are getting the style of the person behind the camera as well as the place.

What is the most important factor to consider when choosing a photography niche or specialization in 2024? I would start with what I’m interested in. It will depend on what I want because, in the end, you need to go back to the main question of why you started to do photography. Was it for money or because you loved it? For

me, it was because I loved it, and I want to continue to love it. For that, I have to consider my interests.

Can you name one unconventional location or setting that photographers should explore to create memorable images? It’s not about one location. It’s really about the photographer. Art and development start when you exit your comfort zone. So find where you feel least comfortable and go there. For example, I know a lot of wedding photographers in Ukraine who started doing war and documentary photography when the war started. It’s clearly not by choice, but they suddenly found a new visual language, and in turn, they became better photographers. So, it’s not about a specific location. It’s about taking what you usually do and going in the opposite direction, and it will produce something interesting.

One underrated photography technique that can instantly enhance a photographer’s portfolio. Framing. It’s one of the easiest to achieve but one of the most underrated. There are photographers who build their entire careers on framing. Depends on what you photograph. Even just looking at how photography inspired art in terms of framing was revolutionary and quite fascinating. There are also so many documentary

Photography is an art form, and you can’t do art if you don’t believe in it or if you listen to everyone.

photographers that you can follow to get inspiration on framing.

Is there anything else you would like to add or any final thoughts you would like to share about your artistic journey, inspirations, or the impact you hope to make through your photography? I think what’s important is why you’re doing it. I see so many people who started in photography just because they liked the idea of taking pictures of travelling, so they started doing this and gained success. It became a constant source of stress for them because they needed to deliver, they needed to be better, and something that used to be the highlight of the day turned into a stressful job. That is something I would not wish on anyone.

Photography is an art form, and you can’t do art if you don’t believe in it or if you listen to everyone. It has to come from you and what you are, what you like, and when you’re honest. Because if you listen to everyone, then you’ll just repeat their work, and it’ll never be yours. And I think that’s one of the biggest threats you see at the moment everyone copies everyone, and you see the same work everywhere. So I would suggest trying to see what was done before and how they came to that, and that will teach you so much more. For example, Erwin Blumenfeld did things he did with his camera in the darkroom; there are people now with Photoshop who are still not capable of repeating things in the same way.

You think we missed an important question? Feel free to both formulate and answer that question here! Any final thoughts? Feel free to add them below. I think you did a fantastic job! I appreciate the effort to record and obtain my answers. ●

Favourite photography digital tool in 2024 — AI Your favourite Photographer in 2024 — Erwin Blumenfeld, Hort P Horst, Bill Brandt, Paul Rousteau, Sarah van Rij, Tim Flach, Marta Bevacqua, Elizaveta Porodina Which photography conference, workshop, event, exhibition, etc., would you recommend to photographers in 2024? — Photo London, Paris Photo, Art Basel, Photo Basel, or any big photographic events in your area. Which social media platform do you use the most as a photographer? — Instagram Will you use or experiment with NFT in 2024? — No Do you think the always-improving cameras on smartphones will result in less work for profesional photographers in 2024? — No

In your opinion, which photography trend will dominate the industry in 2024? — The two I described in the beginning. 1. Colorful, exuberant, escapist. 2. Real-life but in a beautiful poetic way. Three must-have photography gadgets or tools for aspiring photographers? — A convenient camera carrying device (like a holster), Capture One or Camera Ranger, colorful photography gels to change the color of the whole frame or part of it. Name one unconventional source of inspiration that photographers should explore for fresh ideas in 2024. — Art museums. It is not photographic but modern, contemporary, or classical art to get inspiration for composition, colors, and subjects. What is the most innovative use of technology you’ve seen in photography recently? — When they use 3D models and AI, some people are gifted with it and blend

it with their own photography. It’s very specific to the artist because they have to understand how this tool can be tamed. Which online platform or marketplace is currently the best for photographers to sell their work and reach a wider audience? — Saatchi Art What is your motto for 2024? — “Find what you love and shoot what you love. But in a restrained way, don’t try to shoot everything. Find a niche.” Who to follow on social media or take inspiration from in 2024? — Erwin Blumenfeld, Hort P Horst, Bill Brandt, Paul Rousteau, Sarah van Rij, Tim Flach, Marta Bevacqua, Elizaveta Porodina. And they would be the ones to follow on social media. For the classics (3 first names), follow the hashtags with their names.

Gim Liu Website: https://www.gimagery.net Photography Genres: Long Exposure

Creative

Night

Travel

Experimental

Fave Camera Brand: Canon

Socials:

What’s in your camera bag? I would have my Canon 7D Mark II with a standard 18-55mm kit lens and my sturdy Hama tripod in my camera bag as standard. The rest of the gear depends on what kind of long-exposure photos I will be shooting. Nevertheless, I would have a light source with me, which would be either a set of string lights or sparklers or a torch or steel wool. Also, if I am shooting on my own, I would have my wireless Canon remote with me so I can set the shutter myself from a distance to take photos.

Are there any specific equipment or gear innovations that you believe will have a significant impact on the industry in 2024? I guess this depends on your area of photography. I have not come across or discovered any new equipment or gear innovations that will have a significant impact on the industry in 2024. Long-exposure photography and its subcategories have been established for many years, and the blueprint for taking the photos is pretty much set in stone. Any gear that is new to the game is likely related to the light sources used to create photos. Furthermore, if you discover anything, please let me know, and I will be sure to give it a go!

How is photography making the world a better place in 2024?

Photography already does and continues to make the world a better place in many ways, such as helping connect the world, telling stories, being the voice of history, and assisting in capturing moods, feelings, and emotions. For me, above all, the most significant way it makes the world a better place is that it is a powerful tool for self-expression. This relates to my own philosophy of photography as I perceive it like art and poetry. Along with capturing moments, it can and should be used to express yourself. The beauty of photography is that you are restricted only by your own imagination and creativity. This satisfies my desire to be creative and consequently makes me happy.

Where do you get the latest news on new gear? Where do you usually buy new gear? I don’t receive news on new gear. If I do buy new gear, I simply get it from either eBay or Facebook’s marketplace.

What emerging photography trends do you foresee gaining popularity in 2024? To be honest, I really do not know. However, I hope that my discipline in photography, which is rather niche, gains popularity and people dive into exploring the fascinating world of long-exposure photography.

If you could pick a photography mentor in 2024, who would you pick? Why? Personally, I would not even want a mentor in photography. I am self-taught, picked up skills myself, and developed my methods. I would much rather collaborate with photographers in my field and beyond to create interesting photos and, at the same time, exchange ideas and methods. Furthermore, rather than pick or have a mentor, I prefer to look to and draw inspiration from people whom I have great respect for, aspire to be like and find highly influential.

The unavoidable question: How do you see the use of artificial intelligence or machine learning impacting photography in 2024? I am unsure but the rise in its use and the way they are being used in different fields suggest that it could possibly end up having a large influence on it. Specifically related to artificial intelligence in photography, I am personally not a fan nor a supporter of it. I think the human side of photography of actually being there when/where the photo was taken or where someone actually created the photo is what makes the photo special. We are the ones who put substance and life into photography, and AI-generated work lacks creativity, originality and authenticity, which are the fundamentals of my work.

What is your favorite photographyrelated book or resource that will continue to have a significant impact on your career in 2024? Why? Unfortunately, I do not have any photographyrelated books or resources that I refer to whatsoever and, therefore, do not have any to list for the readers of this question. Perhaps this is something I should look to for self-improvement as a photographer, which would help make a positive impact on my career in 2024. I will keep an eye out for the answers to this question from other photographers in this trend report to see what theirs are and take a look at them!

Wh a t i s yo u r g o -to m e t h o d f o r overcoming creative block and finding inspiration in 2024? I have several methods for overcoming creative blocks when getting stuck while working on a project. I find that the main and most successful way that works is to take a break from what I am working on. A short break for just a few hours or a few days does the trick for me. This enables me to come back to it with a fresh and clear head to pick up where I left off. Some examples of what I would do are go for a walk, listen to music, or sit in silence and play with fidget toys while thinking about and analyzing what must be done. I believe this is very important when working on anything in life and not just in photography.

If you could give one piece of advice to a beginner in photography, what would it be?

The journey as a photographer is a lengthy & challenging one. Whilst some doors get closed, other doors open. With that being said, it would be quite difficult to offer just one single piece of advice to a beginner in photography. Nevertheless, knowing the following four difficulties I had during my journey so far would be useful in helping you with yours. The four difficulties I have had were: 1. Problem keeping up with uploading regularly on social media, which negatively impacts your following 2. Ideas not working that took a lot of time planning and attempting 3. Getting hate and negativity from old associates 4. Getting the door shut from photography entities when approaching them

C a n yo u s h a r e a s p e c i f i c t o o l , technology, or sof tware that has revolutionized your workflow and significantly enhanced your creative process as a photographer? Yes, I certainly can, and there are four particular software programs that have helped me revolutionize my workflow, which significantly enhanced my creative process. These four software programs are Lightroom, Inkscape, Gimp and Sony Vegas. Inkscape – this program transformed me significantly. It is a free and open-source vector graphics editor, which became essential to me when it came to creating content relating to my photography rather than the photos coming from my photography. This includes when it came to

making my website and creating my debut publication.

Any thoughts on the relationship of NFT and photography? I am not very familiar with NFT and find it somewhat confusing, so it would be difficult to give my opinion on it. I do know that it is relatively new, and there is a lot of excitement around using technology to sell digital art. If it is another place where photographers can sell work to make money, then it must be a good thing!

What is your biggest strength and your biggest weakness as a photographer in 2024? My biggest strength is my creative thinking. Just to give you an idea of my photography, when I try to come up with an idea of what to shoot, it must have the potential to result in at least one of the following: • Create the illusion/impression of movement • Bring a static object to life in some way • Produce an image that is unique and unusual in appearance • Will have qualities that intrigue and captivate My biggest weakness is being a perfectionist, which causes me problems because trying to get a near-perfect shot takes a lot of time. Sometimes, I take the same photo 20+ times to get one I am completely satisfied with, whereas others may settle for an outcome well before that.

What is the biggest challenge in your photography genre in 2024? What are the solutions? Year in and year out, the biggest challenge is always the same. The challenge is always to come up with ideas for new photos that are intriguing and captivating for the viewer, which I have not seen or done before. The solution for this is simple: a lengthy brainstorm where a lot of thinking outside the box occurs.

What is the most important factor to consider when choosing a photography niche or specialization in 2024? There are a lot of factors to consider here. You should ask yourself the following set of questions to help you make decisions: 1. What would you be doing it for? Fun or money? If it’s for fun, will it hold your interest? If for money, can you make a plan and make money from it? 2. Would you genuinely enjoy this specialization? 3. Can you foresee yourself in this long term? 4. Will it help you grow not just as a photographer but as a person, too? 5. Does it have many doors that can be opened in the industry for you?

The beauty of photography is that you are restricted only by your own imagination and creativity.

Favourite photography digital tool in 2024 — Lightroom

What is your motto for 2024? — “Imagine. Explore. Create.”

Which photography conference, workshop, event, exhibition, etc., would you recommend to photographers in 2024? — DK

In your opinion, which photography trend will dominate the industry in 2024? — Hopefully light painting.

Which social media platform do you use the most as a photographer? — Instagram.

Must-have photography gadgets or tools for aspiring photographers? — Tripod, wireless camera remote and ND filter.

Will you use or experiment with NFT in 2024? — No Do you think the always-improving cameras on smartphones will result in less work for professional photographers in 2024? — No Can you name one unconventional location or setting that photographers shouldexplore to create memorable images? — Abandoned places

What is the most innovative use of technology you’ve seen in photography recently? — DK Which online platform or marketplace is currently the best for photographers to sell their work and reach a wider audience? — Instagram Who to follow on social media or take inspiration from in 2024? — Can I say myself!? haha

Name one unconventional source of inspiration that photographers should explore for fresh ideas in 2024. — Anyone who you look up to or who inspires you. One underrated photography technique that can instantly enhance a photographer’s portfolio. — Long-exposure photography

Kristopher Andres Website: https://www.kristopherandres.com Photography Genres: Landscape

Aerial

Travel

Astrophotography

Fave Camera Brand: Sony

Socials:

What’s in your camera bag? • • • • • • • • •

Two camera bodies 100-500 mm 70-200 mm 50mm 1.2 15mm-35mm Lumecubes and batteries Tripod Filters First aid kit

Are there any specific equipment or gear innovations that you believe will have a significant impact on the industry in 2024? The new AI processors in the Sony cameras will change our focus and there will be no more missing shots.

Where do you get the latest news on new gear? Where do You usually buy new gear? Online, in my community, and in local independent camera stores for gear.

How is photography making the world a better place in 2024? We are able to tell stories like never before. An image can transport us to a place that we may not even know existed. It can make us dream and imagine as the photographer tells us a story.

What emerging photography trends do you foresee gaining popularity in 2024? I see more creative photographs being created in 2024 due to the emergence of AI. We are creating better art than ever before, and I think it will lead to us pushing our creativity to the limits we can’t imagine yet. The biggest trend I see coming at us in 2024 is human-created images.

If you could pick a photography mentor in 2024, who would you pick? Why? I chose Joel Grimes mainly because I have never seen another photographer able to be so extreme at both light and darkness. He truly can create such storytelling images that are so powerful and gritty to the softness that can only be related to kitten softness with his ability to control light, shadow and color.

The unavoidable question: How do you see the use of artificial intelligence or machine learning impacting photography in 2024? I am excited about it. Many people are rolling their eyes and groaning about it. It is here, and I truly think it will push us past the point where we might be stuck. Anyone will be able to create art as they see fit with keywords and such, and that will have its own little genre, much like a postcard. A postcard is usually okay and such for an image, but it

is what we write on it that is key. It is what emotion comes with that picture that AI will never be able to do. Simply entering words and having an image will be cool, but I think as we push past the scary parts of competing with it, we will become stronger artists. We will and can use AI to help and support our creativity.

What is your favorite photographyrelated book or resource that will continue to have a significant impact on your career in 2024? Why? Mother Magazine. It is one of the most aweinspiring resources that has blown my mind. The Magazine has created an entire entity of creativity as I follow many of the people featured in the book.

Wh a t i s yo u r g o -to m e t h o d f o r overcoming creative block and finding inspiration in 2024? Follow amazing artists and look for inspiration in their work. I use AI for keywords I might think of and see what it spits out. I find it often will get my creativity back moving. As well as I am very lucky to travel endlessly throughout the year. The world inspires me.

If you could give one piece of advice to a beginner in photography, what would it be? Create for yourself! The rest comes when you create for yourself.

C a n yo u s h a r e a s p e c i f i c t o o l , technology, or sof tware that has revolutionized your workflow and significantly enhanced your creative process as a photographer? Adobe Lightroom noise reduction and Camera stabilization. It has me pushing limits where I would have been shutting down the camera as the light wasn’t good enough, as I was cranking ISO or dragging that shutter too low. Now, I will push past so many old barriers.

NFT and photography? Any thoughts? If I can sell something on it, that would be great. I find it became such a time investment, and if you have the best story or adventure, who is who in the mix? I saw people adjust their journeys or take parts of other people’s journeys to push their art.

What is your biggest strength and your biggest weakness as a photographer in 2024? My ability to cheer and support is my biggest strength, as I believe everyone can be amazing! My ability to cheer and support is also my biggest weakness, as I forget that I need some of that cheer and support and that I can be amazing as well. It is one of those things that many people struggle with. Believe in yourself even when no one is looking.

What is the biggest challenge in your photography genre in 2024? What are the solutions? Time is the biggest challenge. To be able to put out the best work possible takes time. As the world has hit overdrive with consuming art in every genre, it has been the hardest thing to create fast.

What is the most important factor to consider when choosing a photography niche or specialization in 2024? Is this what makes you happy? Is this what you want to create? If it is anything else, it won’t be as good as what you can do when you are doing it for yourself.

Is there anything else you would like to add or any final thoughts you would like to share about your artistic journey, inspirations, or the impact you hope to make through your photography? Our journey is exactly that. It is an artistic path that we hope resonates with our communities and, more importantly, with ourselves. Whatever the emotion may be with a photo of mine that that you see or resonates with you is all I want. Just that emotion, whatever that may be. ●

An image can transport us to a place that we may not even know existed.

Favourite photography digital tool in 2024 — Lightroom Your favourite Photographer in 2024 — Elizabeth Gadd Which photography conference, workshop, event, exhibition, etc., would you recommend to photographers in 2024? — OFFBEATPHOTO.CA Workshops around the world. Which social media platform do you use the most as a photographer? — Instagram Will you use or experiment with NFT in 2024? — Yes What is your motto for 2024? — “Left foot, Right foot. Repeat and smile.”

Do you think the always-improving cameras on smartphones will result in less work for professional photographers in 2024? — Yes Which photography trend will dominate the industry in 2024? — Human element Three must-have photography gadgets or tools for aspiring photographers? — Lumecube lights, Kase Filters, and Shimoda camera bag. Name one unconventional source of inspiration that photographers should explore for fresh ideas in 2024. — Museum of Fine Art, book a day, pick your piece of artwork and sit in front of it for a minimum of 45 minutes. See what happens.

One underrated photography technique that can instantly enhance a photographer’s portfolio. — Boarder patrol every image in your portfolio. No bright spots or distractions on your boarders. What is the most innovative use of technology you’ve seen in photography recently? — De noise Who to follow on social media or take inspiration from in 2024? — Elizabeth Gadd, Bella Kotak, OFFBEAT, shotbypratik, Curtis Jones, Paul Zizka, Dave Brosha

Andrei Savin Website: https://socprofile.com/uw.art/ Photography Genres: Underwater

Nature

Wildlife

Fave Camera Brand: Sony

Socials:

What’s in your camera bag? • • •

• • •

Sony A7R IV (starting September 2023 A7R V) Panasonic GH5 (backup hybrid camera) + Atomos Ninja V About 10 lenses (favorites Canon 8-15mm, Sony 90mm macro, Nikon 60mm ED) 7-8 underwater strobes (Retra Pro, INON, Backscatter Mini Flash, SUPE, Nikon) 8-12 underwater video lights (Sola Pro, Nitescuba, SUPE, Weefine, ...) Underwater housing and underwater optics from Nauticam

Are there any specific equipment or gear innovations that you believe will have a significant impact on the industry in 2024? I don’t think we should expect this from tech devices except for a significant strengthening of the position of mobile photography (in my case, the growing popularity of underwater video shooting on a smartphone). At the same time, I am sure that the explosive development of AI will have a huge impact and change the consumer perception of photography and video.

big things from Hong Kong and Singapore or order ever y thing inexpensive on Marketplaces.

How is photography making the world a better place in 2024? A good photographer tells a story and good stories change worlds, making us better versions of ourselves.

What emerging photography trends do you foresee gaining popularity in 2024? Widespread, diversified use of generative AI; Dominance of mobile (sof tware) photography; Vertical form factor; Splicing and interpenetration of photos and videos.

If you could pick a photography mentor in 2024, who would you pick? Why? They would probably be photographers from areas I like but are still new to me - I want to try diving in cold Arctic waters and learn to tell stories like Paul Nicklen, dive in black water with Steven Kovacs, adapt for underwater photography the skills of Peter Lik to create striking landscapes.

Where do you get the latest news on new gear? Where do You usually buy new gear?

The unavoidable question: How do you see the use of artificial intelligence or machine learning impacting photography in 2024?

Internet search, email newsletters from manufacturers, and Social Media. I buy

The number of professional photographers will decrease, and those who remain will

become more creative. AI will become an indispensable assistant in photo processing, human-made live photos will become even more vivid and natural, AI will penetrate every camera and will help to choose focus and remove noise, and photo stock photos created by AI will gradually become dominant.

What is your favorite photographyrelated book or resource that will continue to have a significant impact on your career in 2024? Why? When it comes to career impact, it’s definitely Instagram. Why? It has become more useful than it was before. I understand how it affects my career, and I have a lot of followers. Behance has also become my priority lately.

Wh a t i s yo u r g o -to m e t h o d f o r overcoming creative block and finding inspiration in 2024? The following methods help me: I regularly participate in photo competitions, study the works of famous photographers in other genres, deliberately limit myself in the use of lighting devices, visualize the process before immersion, and come up with interesting subjects and scenarios in advance.

If you could give one piece of advice to a beginner in photography, what would it be? Start a daily cycle of personal growth: shoot > analyze > change > shoot > change > shoot

C a n yo u s h a r e a s p e c i f i c t o o l , technology, or sof tware that has revolutionized your workflow and significantly enhanced your creative process as a photographer? In recent years, all improvements have been more like an evolution than a revolution. But if I think back to when I took my first shots underwater, Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop can be considered tools. Photo processing allowed me to make a qualitative leap and reach a new level. It is also impossible not to mention the motivating role of Instagram - in the first years, it helped me a lot.

NFT and photography? Any thoughts? I was extremely skeptical of the already completed NFT boom, but in the future, I think it will become a common tool and take its place in the digital world.

What is your biggest strength and your biggest weakness as a photographer in 2024? My strength is that being a programmer is my first education. I can approach all tasks systematically and think analytically. This is often lacking in creative people. And the weak side is that I am now little motivated by the process of making money, and as a consequence - I work on myself less than I should. I comfort myself with the fact that my perfectionism has not gone anywhere.

What is the biggest challenge in your photography genre in 2024? What are the solutions? In the genre of Underwater Photography (as well as Wildlife Photography in general), it is increasingly difficult to shoot something unique. There have been no fundamental improvements in underwater techniques for many years. You can find photos from 10 years ago that would easily win some prestigious contests even now. I see some way out of it: to look for new places and dive where few people have been before. Another way would be to boldly bring underwater photography equipment, techniques and methods from different genres and fields. And let’s remember AI - maybe it will soon be able to help us come up with better stories.

What is the most important factor to consider when choosing a photography niche or specialization in 2024? If you consider photography a craft, you should probably choose a niche from those that will be particularly difficult or impossible for current and future generative AIs—for example, Event Photography. But in general, I think the most important thing is that the genre should be spiritually close to the photographer. Without a deep attachment, it will be difficult to create something alive, real, and eternal. ●

A good photographer tells a story and good stories change worlds

Favourite photography digital tool in 2024 — Adobe Creative Cloud Which photography conference, workshop, event, exhibition, etc., would you recommend to photographers in 2024? — DEMA Show Which social media platform do you use the most as a photographer? — Instagram Will you use or experiment with NFT in 2024? — Yes Do you think the always-improving cameras on smartphones will result in less work for professional photographers in 2024? — No What is your motto for 2024? — “Columbus Didn’t Ask For Directions”

One unconventional location or setting that photographers should explore to create memorable images? — Underwater

One underrated photography technique that can instantly enhance a photographer’s portfolio. — Buying a Sony A7RV :D

Which photography trend will dominate the industry in 2024? — Mobile photography is replacing big cameras.

What is the most innovative use of technology you’ve seen in photography recently? — Avatar 2

Three must-have photography gadgets or tools for aspiring photographers? — Smartphone, Cloud storage, vision & creativity Name one unconventional source of inspiration that photographers should explore for fresh ideas in 2024. — Midjourney

Which online platform or marketplace is currently the best for photographers to sell their work and reach a wider audience? — Avatar 2 Who to follow on social media or take inspiration from in 2024? — @love.watts

Magali Agnello Website: https://www.behance.net/magaliagnello Photography Genres: Conceptual

Creative

Fine Art

Portrait

Fave Camera Brand: Canon

Socials:

What’s in your camera bag? • • • • •

Canon 6D Canon 450D Canon 50mm 1.8 Canon 24-105mm Canon 70-300mm

that moment, things that can change the world or at least that person’s world.

What emerging photography trends do you foresee gaining popularity in 2024? I think that IA-related things will emerge more, especially when used to edit images.

Are there any specific equipment or gear innovations that you believe will have a significant impact on the industry in 2024?

If you could pick a photography mentor in 2024, who would you pick? Why?

I haven’t been able to use one yet, but I think that mirrorless cameras will continue to get better and have the greatest impact.

Joel Robison, because he’s been my inspiration since I started; how he talks about mental health and shows that in his photography is truly amazing, and his creativity never ceases to amaze me.

Where do you get the latest news on new gear? Where do You usually buy new gear? Usually, I don’t follow too much about new gear because, in my country access to photography equipment is really expensive. All my equipment is second-hand.

How is photography making the world a better place in 2024? I think that one of the most important attributes of photography is how it is an excuse for people to be more observant of their reality. Photography invites people to stop and look at what they have in front of them, and to me, that makes the world a better place. When someone stops and actually sees, many things can happen from

The unavoidable question: How do you see the use of artificial intelligence or machine learning impacting photography in 2024? I think it is a complicated topic because a lot of ethical problems will emerge from that; it’s advancing faster than we are able to process it. To me, if it is well used, it can be a useful tool to save time in repetitive boring tasks (like editing, particularly). But the part of images created completely by IA that seems like real photographs has the potential to cause a lot of trouble, troubles that maybe we are not imagining yet.

What is your favorite photographyrelated book or resource that will continue to have a significant impact

on your career in 2024? Why? “ T h e El e m e nts of Ph oto g rap hy : Understanding and Creating Sophisticated Images of Angela Faris Belt”. That book is one I keep returning to after many years because it gave me a way of approaching artistic photography that I continuously teach my students.

Wh a t i s yo u r g o -to m e t h o d f o r overcoming creative block and finding inspiration in 2024? Changing perspective radically. I found out that when I’m blocked, taking a picture from a dif ferent perspective than I usually do or actually leaving my comfort zone does a wonderful job of giving inspiration back to me. We don’t have to be afraid of taking photographs that are not our usual type or genre.

If you could give one piece of advice to a beginner in photography, what would it be? Doing a project of taking one picture per day for a determined amount of time (30 days, 60 days, 365 days). It’s something I know that can be exhausting, but it’s really an amazing way to learn a lot because it forces you to practice, gain discipline, and develop creativity and technique. And never give up, even in those days when nothing makes sense. In those days, return to what photography made you feel when you first started.

What is your biggest strength and your biggest weakness as a photographer in 2024? My biggest strength is that I’m confident about my art now. I had received recognitions that helped me see that what I do is actually good and even helped people. For a week, I thought I didn’t have the same energy as before to make some kind of images like selfportraits, but I would like to have it again.

What is the most important factor to consider when choosing a photography niche or specialization in 2024? Maybe it is a cliché saying this, but my answer is that you have to really like it. People who do things they don’t like won’t get too far because their work will lack passion. And liking it actually drives you to learn more and get better and better, and that is what eventually would make people know you in your field.

Is there anything else you would like to add or any final thoughts you would like to share about your artistic journey, inspirations, or the impact you hope to make through your photography? An artist who paints dragons and is known worldwide once said to me: “Never stop doing what you are passionate about because eventually it blossoms.” That phrase kept me going when I was so frustrated that I wanted to leave photography completely. But I didn’t, and last year, I was able to gift him my first published book, one of the flowers of my work. That was a really special moment for me. If something is your passion, it doesn’t matter how many people like it or how well-known you are. Recognition will eventually come. The important thing is to keep enjoying the journey, remember what photography makes you feel, and explore all the things you wish to share with the world.

You think we missed an important question? Feel free to both formulate and answer that question here! Any final thoughts? Feel free to add them below. “What do you think is the biggest impact your work had?” It really surprised me that some pictures I did that weren’t that good actually made a difference to some people or inspired them somehow. That and all the work I do about photography and writing dedicated to mental health. That one person saying to me, “I took your picture to my psychologist’s appointment because it truly shows what I’m feeling”, is one of the best things someone can say to me. I love to know that I had that kind of impact. ●

Return to what photography made you feel when you first started

Favourite photography digital tool in 2024 — Adobe Lightroom Favourite Photographer in 2024 — Joel Robison Which social media platform do you use the most as a photographer? — Instagram Will you use or experiment with NFT in 2024? — No Do you think the always-improving cameras on smartphones will result in less work for professional photographers in 2024? — No What is your motto for 2024? — “Keep doing what you love. It will eventually blossom.”

Which photography trend will dominate the industry in 2024? — AI use.

What is the most innovative use of technology you’ve seen in photography recently? — More advanced editing tools.

Three must-have photography gadgets or tools for aspiring photographers? — Lightroom, a paper notebook and a tripod.

Which online platform or marketplace is currently the best for photographers to sell their work and reach a wider audience? — Instagram and maybe Society6

Name one unconventional source of inspiration that photographers should explore for fresh ideas in 2024. — Gardening

Who to follow on social media or take inspiration from in 2024? — Photographers that started their journey in this field in 2011/2012.

One underrated photography technique that can instantly enhance a photographer’s portfolio. — Using different unusual angles to take the pictures.

Angela Garcia Website: https://www.angelagarciaphotography.com/ Photography Genres: Fashion

Commercial

Fine Art

Portrait

Creative

Fave Camera Brand: Nikon

Socials:

What’s in your camera bag? • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Camera Bag: Lowepro Adventura Lens: Nikon 24-70mm Second lenses: Nikon AF-S VR MicroNIKKOR 105MM and Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 50mm Second camera: Nikon D750 w/ 24-120mm Battery grip: Neewer Battery Grip Third camera: Nikon D300S 12.3MP SD cards: SanDisk 128GB Extreme PRO and SanDisk 64GB Extreme PRO SD cards holder case: JJC Deluxe 7 Slots Speedlight: Godox V860II-C Charger: Nikon MH-25 Quick Charger ND filter: K&F Concept 82mm Variable ND2-32 Tripod: 80” Camera Tripod Gorila pod: JOBY GorillaPod Rig VND Filters (imperative for outdoor shooting) Action camera: GoPro Hero7 Black Gimbal: MOZA AirCross 2 Accessories: MOZA iFocus-M

Are there any specific equipment or gear innovations that you believe will have a significant impact on the industry in 2024? SONY

How is photography making the world a better place in 2024?

For me, photography makes the world a better place in so many ways! It’s about raising awareness, capturing those incredible moments, sharing art and telling stories that matter. We are applying skills to use light to be able to portray our world, bringing us closer to different cultures and people and inspiring action. Photographers are also reminded to embrace diversity. For me, one of the most important aspects is that photography lets us express ourselves and keeps our memories alive. We are here to make a real difference!

and the founder of the streetwear brand KUSIKOHC. Known for his surrealist images, Gi-Seok has also applied his artistic approach to his apparel and accessories label KUSIKOHC.

What emerging photography trends do you foresee gaining popularity in 2024?

The unavoidable question: How do you see the use of artificial intelligence or machine learning impac ting photography in 2024?

AI Photography With the rapid development of artificial intelligence and computational photography techniques, more and more photographers are leveraging AI tools to enhance their images. AI algorithms can help improve image quality, remove unwanted elements, and even generate new artistic effects. Personally, I’m learning how to use it and mix it with my own work. Programs like Midjourney and Dalle are game changers for all artists because of the ability to create stunning images without a camera or a team. This is insane, a real game-changer.

If you could pick a photography mentor in 2024, who would you pick? Why? I admire a lot of photographers, but right now, only Cho Gi-Seok comes to my mind; Cho Gi-Seok is a South Korean photographer

Gi-Seok dreamed of being an art director since childhood and experimented with the fields of graphic and set design before pivoting to photography. His work always leaves me completely speechless; the way he portrays and does post-production is from another world.

I do appreciate the real hard work, but we cannot avoid the use of artificial intelligence, and we as artists need to be on the same side and find the best use of it in our work without losing the magic of the click.

What is your favorite photographyrelated book or resource that will continue to have a significant impact on your career in 2024? Why? “Annie Leibovitz at Work” by Annie Leibovitz is a very special book for me. In this book, the amazing photographer Annie Leibovitz provides personal anecdotes, behind-thescenes stories, and technical details about her most famous photographs. It offers a glimpse into her creative process and the

world of celebrity portraiture. It really inspired me to continue my career as a photographer.

What is your go-to method for overcoming creative block and finding inspiration in 2024? I like experimenting with different photography techniques, such as long exposures, macro photography, or double exposures. Pushing the boundaries gives me a new perspective to keep creating. I also like to see other artists’ work; they inspire me to keep creating. I also pay more attention to stories that I can recreate in photography or a message that I want to tell.

If you could give one piece of advice to a beginner in photography, what would it be?

What is the most important factor to consider when choosing a photography niche or specialization in 2024?

Keep shooting; the key is consistency.

If you can live from it, it is a very good factor, but also if it is your passion.

Can you share a specific tool, technology, or software that has revolutionized your workflow and significantly enhanced your creative process as a photographer? Lightroom and Photoshop are my best friends.

What is your biggest strength and your biggest weakness as a photographer in 2024? My biggest strength is my knowledge, and my biggest weakness is the new technology competing with the classic skills for photography.

What is the biggest challenge in your photography genre in 2024? What are the solutions? The biggest challenge is the competition. There are so many amazing artists out there, and the solution is to keep creating and especially defining your own identity.

Is there anything else you would like to add or any final thoughts you would like to share about your artistic journey, inspirations, or the impact you hope to make through your photography? My journey started around 10 years ago. I’ve been working really hard since then, and now I finally got to work for big brands like Ray-Ban and Shein. I really hope to create images that make an impact and inspire others to pursue their photography dreams.

You think we missed an important question? Feel free to both formulate and answer that question here! Any final thoughts? Feel free to add them below. “ What do you struggle with as a photographer in terms of making money?” ●

Keep shooting; the key is consistency.

Favourite photography digital tool in 2024 — Lightroom

Which photography trend will dominate the industry in 2024? — Fashion

What is the most innovative use of technology you’ve seen in photography recently? — AI

Three must-have photography gadgets or tools for aspiring photographers? — Full frame camera, 24-70mm lens, and also a film camera

Which online platform or marketplace is currently the best for photographers to sell their work and reach a wider audience? — YouTube

Will you use or experiment with NFT in 2024? — Yes

Name one unconventional source of inspiration that photographers should explore for fresh ideas in 2024. — Books

Who to follow on social media or take inspiration from in 2024? — Schön! Magazine

Do you think the always-improving cameras on smartphones will result in less work for professional photographers in 2024? — Yes

One underrated photography technique that can instantly enhance a photographer’s portfolio. — Motion blur

Favourite Photographer in 2024 — Cho Gi-Seok Which social media platform do you use the most as a photographer? — Instagram

Federica Nardese Website: https://www.federicanardese.com Photography Genres: Creative

Fine Art

Portrait

Fave Camera Brand: Nikon

Socials:

What’s in your camera bag? • • • • • • • • •

Nikon D750 Nikon D600 (backup) Nikkor AF 28-105mm f/3.5-4.5 D Nikkor 50 mm f/1.8 D Tamron 24-70mm f/2.8 Di VC USD Sigma 85mm F1.4 EX DG HSM Gobe Pro-filter NDX 2-400 77mm Nikon Flash SB-900 + Nikon Flash SB-600 2x Studio Strobe Godox DP600III

Are there any specific equipment or gear innovations that you believe will have a significant impact on the industry in 2024? There are several specific equipment and gear innovations that I believe will make a profound impact in 2024. Still, as a Portrait Photographer and Nikon user for many years, one that interests me much is the new Nikon Z8. The Nikon Z8 excels in various aspects, including enhanced low-light performance. This feature unlocks new creative possibilities for photographers, allowing them to capture stunning images with greater clarity and detail. Its accurate autofocus system + highspeed burst shooting capabilities enable effortless capturing of fast-paced action moments. These advancements in Nikon Z8, combined with attention to photographers’ diverse needs, make it a game-changer in the industry.

Where do you get the latest news on new gear? Where do You usually buy new gear? I typically stay up to date with the latest news on new gear through various sources. I follow photography blogs, websites, and forums that provide in-depth reviews, industry insights, and announcements about upcoming releases. Additionally, I rely on social media platforms, YouTube in particular, where photographers and influencers share their experiences and opinions on the latest equipment. When it comes to purchasing a new gear, I usually have a few go-to options. I prefer to buy from reputable camera stores both online and in person. In Milan, we have a great shop called “New Old Camera”, which is a go-to option for local photographers and enthusiasts alike.

How is photography making the world a better place in 2024? In 2024, I think that photography has a crucial role in nurturing a transformative aesthetic. As photographers, we bear a significant social responsibility to provide fresh reference points for engagement. With its ability to capture and convey diverse perspectives and narratives, photography possesses the power to actively engage v i ewe r s , p ro m pti n g ref l e c ti o n a n d empathy and encouraging a new form of participatory, open-minded approach to education. We need to spark dialogue, confront stereotypes, and inspire social

change. By embracing this responsibility, photographers can create a more participative, compassionate, and culturally enriched society in 2024 and beyond.

What emerging photography trends do you foresee gaining popularity in 2024? I foresee several emerging photography trends gaining popularity. There is a growing desire to revisit film photography, which, although niche, holds significant appeal in the “AI era”. Additionally, implementing AI technologies in the creative process (3D and such) will likely lead to fully immersive experiences from the comfort of our homes. The market for mirrorless cameras is set to thrive while DSLRs gradually become obsolete. Personally, as a portrait photographer, I’m pleased to witness a return to less retouched portraits, embracing our natural image and true selves, free from excessive editing or artificial enhancements.

If you could pick a photography mentor in 2024, who would you pick? Why? My mentor since 2016 has been Sue Bryce, and she is the mentor I would always want in my photography journey due to her ability to make portraiture something magical and timeless. In 2024, if I could add another mentor, it would be Jeremy Cowart because he is more than just a photographer. He is an artist who deeply loves both the art and the people he photographs, and he has an outstanding creative ability to

create something beyond the image itself.

The unavoidable question: How do you see the use of artificial intelligence or machine learning impac ting photography in 2024? It is very difficult to give a definitive answer. We are still trying to understand what is happening. I believe that some tasks will be replaced by AI, especially in the ease of retouching and post-production. Perhaps even the fashion industry will begin to rely on virtual photoshoots, saving on often extensive teams. I started integrating AI into my images a few months ago, creating creative composites that combine my portraits with AI-generated elements, resulting in something unique and still my own. We need, and I hope, we’ll keep on staying human, still feeling with our guts and hearts to make real art.

What is your favorite photographyrelated book or resource that will continue to have a significant impact on your career in 2024? Why? A theoretical reference to me is “Camera Lucida” by Roland Barthes, as it explores the significance of photographs, exploring their evocative power, the relationship between photography and death, and the emotional connection forged through the “punctum” effect, shaping critical discourse on the subject. As for artistic influences, I enjoy immersing myself in any photography book featuring the work of great contemporary masters, regardless of the genre. I also appreciate good and thick art catalogues and books on painting, spanning from the masters of the 15th century until now, as they allow me to observe the dynamics of light and colour to achieve painterly effects in my images.

What is your go-to method for overcoming creative block and finding inspiration in 2024? In this period, I am turning into a more “tactile” approach. I am exploring printing my portraits on simple paper to create art collages using newspaper clippings, decorative elements, peinture, etc. This exploration in my scrapbook helps me look beyond the mere “photographic performance” as I exercise intuition and craftsmanship by combining various artistic disciplines with my photography. Also, exploring self-portraiture has the same healing effect on me since I’ve been practising self-portraits since forever, and it allows me to be myself with no pressure on the outcome. Having some good friends to ask for modelling for me also helps when I’m in need of joyful practising new ideas.

If you could give one piece of advice to a beginner in photography, what would it be? It would be never to stop experimenting. Photography is a journey of constant growth and exploration. It’s a marathon, not a sprint. Take the time to understand the technical aspects of your camera, study composition techniques, and learn from the work of the great master photographers and painters.

But most importantly, don’t be afraid to push your boundaries, try new perspectives, and embrace your unique vision no matter what others are saying. And if you wanna go pro, you CAN make a living from photography or selling your prints. Just treat it like any other business, work on your positioning and personal branding, find your unique value, and make sure to deliver at your best. It will work.

Can you share a specific tool, technology, or software that has revolutionized your workflow and significantly enhanced your creative process as a photographer? Honestly, I’m a pretty “basic” photographer. I’ve been using Photoshop and Lightroom since early 2010, and those still work smoothly for me. I’ve been using Midjourney AI since mid2022, and I’m integrating Midjourney AI generations into my portraits from time to time, but always working with composites in Photoshop to get what I envision. This mix of “real” portraiture and AI Art can be fun.

NFT and photography? Any thoughts? This surely has been a topic of interest and debate in the industry, but I’m not very into it. I have an artist friend who sells some NFTs and told me that this technology has opened up opportunities for him to monetize his work directly, bypassing traditional gatekeepers such as Galleries and such. Maybe what concerns me and keeps me from learning more about NFTs is that the market for NFTs has seen fluctuations and speculation, which may impact the perception of its long-term value.

What is your biggest strength and your biggest weakness as a photographer in 2024? My biggest strength as a photographer is being a Portrait Photographer. I worked hard to capture people naturally and spontaneously, even in posing, and to establish a strong connection with my subjects on set. I often refrain from excessive post-processing because I want people to recognize themselves in a philosophical “come as you are” approach. This also comes from me, being a certified Art Counsellor. On the other hand, I’m feeling a bit limited by my current photography equipment, which I aspire to upgrade soon.

In 2024, I’d also like to immerse myself more in the midst of people, engaging in participatory projects outside my studio walls.

What is the biggest challenge in your photography genre in 2024? What are the solutions? One of the biggest challenges is standing out in a saturated market that is becoming tougher because of AI tech. But this is a long debated topic. In my opinion, the solution lies in personal projects. While anyone can take a good portrait, only a few can give it meaning and integrate it into a larger, truly “artistic” project. Personal projects give photographers the opportunity to explore their own narratives, themes, or social issues, establishing a cohesive body of work that sets them apart from the competition. I believe this ability to implement personal branding and positioning will increasingly make a difference for the better for those doing it.

What is the most important factor to consider when choosing a photography niche or specialization in 2024? I think you can see this from two different angles: 1. You can do market research and choose a niche based on “where the money is” and go for it. 2. You can choose a niche based on your ability, skills, desire and love for the craft. The output depends on your values. On this topic, I deeply felt these words from Jeremy Cowart, the artist photographer I mentioned before here: “I don’t set goals or plan ahead, and money never motivates me. It’s always about the idea, always has been and always will be.” To me, in a saturated market, it’s always about the idea. The niche will create itself somehow.

Is there anything else you would like to add or any final thoughts you would like to share about your artistic journey, inspirations, or the impact you hope to make through your photography? I am constantly inspired by the power of photography to capture meaningful moments and evoke emotions. Thus, I strive to create a bridge between the external world and the internal realms of the human experience. The ability to connect with people, understand their stories, and translate them into visual narratives is what fuels my passion for portrait photography. Through my work, I hope to contribute to a more empathetic and compassionate

societ y. By capturing the essence of individuals and exploring diverse perspectives, I aim to challenge stereotypes, foster dialogue, and inspire positive change. I aspire to create images that evoke genuine emotions, connecting viewers with the stories and emotions captured within each frame. Ultimately, my goal is to leave a lasting impact on those who view my photographs, to make them pause, reflect, and see the beauty, vulnerability, and strength in themselves and others. Through my camera lens, I strive to create a visual tapestry that celebrates diversity, promotes understanding, and reminds us of our shared humanity.

You think we missed an important question? Feel free to both formulate and answer that question here! Any final thoughts? Feel free to add them below. One main question I often ask myself as a

photography business owner is: how do I find a balance between staying true to my artistic vision and meeting my client’s expectations or the demands of the industry in 2024? Finding the balance between artistic vision and external expectations is indeed a crucial aspect of any photographer’s journey in 2024. It requires navigating the fine line between creative integrity and fulfilling client needs. I think open communication with clients is essential to achieve this balance. By thoroughly understanding their goals, expectations, and desired outcomes, it becomes possible to align artistic vision with client requirements. IPS is also an essential strategy. As in the previous answer, as artists, we need to stay true to our artistic voice. I manage to do that by incorporating personal touches, unique perspectives, and signature elements into the work to create the distinct style that hopefully sets me apart in the industry. ●

It’s always about the idea. The niche will create itself somehow.

Favourite photography digital tool in 2024 — Nikon Z8

What is your motto for 2024? — “To be in the flow of my intuition.”

Favourite Photographer in 2024 — Jeremy Cowart

Which photography trend will dominate the industry in 2024? — AI will take over.

Which photography conference, workshop, event, exhibition, etc., would you recommend to photographers in 2024? — The Portrait Masters Which social media platform do you use the most as a photographer? — YouTube Will you use or experiment with NFT in 2024? — No Do you think the always-improving cameras on smartphones will result in less work for professional photographers in 2024? — No

Three must-have photography gadgets or tools for aspiring photographers? — Spider Holster Belt, ND graduated filters, Kaleidoscope Glass Prism Filter Name one unconventional source of inspiration that photographers should explore for fresh ideas in 2024. — Pinterest What is the most innovative use of technology you’ve seen in photography recently? — Photoshop (beta), AI filters and adjustments

One underrated photography technique that can instantly enhance a photographer’s portfolio. — If used properly, I think mixed light to get light movements may be a good technique. Which online platform or marketplace is currently the best for photographers to sell their work and reach a wider audience? — Instagram Who to follow on social media or take inspiration from in 2024? — Jeremy Cowart, Phil Sharp, Sue Bryce, Tiffany Anna, Maren Klempt

Joas Souza Website: https://www.joasphotographer.com Photography Genres: Architectural

Interior

Industrial

Aerial

Fave Camera Brand: Fujifilm

Socials:

What’s in your camera bag? • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Sony Alpha A7R IV Fujifilm GFX 50S Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN Lens Sony FE 70-200mm F4 G OSS Lens Sony Vario-Tessar T* FE 16-35mm F/4 ZA OSS Lens Sony FE 12-24mm F/4 G Ultra Wide Angle Zoom Lens Canon TS-E 17mm F/4L Tilt And Shift L Series Lens Canon TS-E 24mm f/3.5 L II Series Lens Fujifilm Lens GF 20-35mm F/4 R WR Fujifilm Lens GF 32-64mm F/4 R LM WR SMC Pentax-FA 645 35mm F3.5 AL [IF] Lens KIPON Shift P645-GFX adapter Techart EF-GFX EF-FG01+ Auto Focus Lens Adapte Metabones Canon EF Lens to Sony E Mount T Smart Adapter (Mark IV) Fujifilm EVF-TL1 GFX EVF Tilt Adaptor Canon Extender EF 1.4x III Manfrotto MT055XPRO3 Tripod Photo Clam Multiflex Head with Arca-Type Plate

Where do you get the latest news on new gear? Where do You usually buy new gear? DPreview.com for the latest news in new gear. Normally, I buy from wexphotovideo. com

How is photography making the world a better place in 2024? As photographers, we will continue to make the world a better place through our craft. Through visual storytelling, we will raise awareness, capture powerful moments, and inspire positive change. We will document social and environmental injustices, advocate for important causes, and encourage sustainable practices. Preserving diverse cultures, we foster understanding and appreciation. By capturing collective memories and disseminating knowledge, we will keep contributing to the preservation of history. Together, we can make a meaningful impact, promoting empathy and positive transformation in 2024.

What emerging photography trends do you foresee gaining popularity in 2024? I foresee that starting from 2024 and continuing beyond, the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to perfect or enhance images captured by humans will become not only a trend but a revolutionary tool that photographers can expect. The integration of AI into photography will open up new possibilities for us photographers to refine our images in ways that were once limited by budget, resources, or technical constraints. This integration will empower us photographers to achieve desired results more efficiently and affordably.

If you could pick a photography mentor in 2024, who would you pick? Why? Chris Burkard will likely be the one. I would love to hear from him how he manages to have 3.9 million followers on Instagram while being a photographer at the same time. Achieving such a massive following as a photographer requires dedicating a significant amount of time to creating content for social media. I find it truly puzzling how he manages to handle both roles effectively.

What is your favorite photographyrelated book or resource that will continue to have a significant impact on your career in 2024? Why? I have a collection of wonderfully inspiring books on my shelf that I use as a source of inspiration to create increasingly better images. Many of them are not directly related to the type of photography I pursue, but the exceptional level of perfectionism and craftsmanship showcased in each photograph by these photographers is truly inspiring. Some notable publications in my collection include works by Sebastião Salgado and Bernhard Edmaier. Additionally, books like ‘A Photographic History of Modern American Architecture’ by Ezra Stoller and ‘Modernism Rediscovered’ by Julius Shulman have also been influential in my creative journey.

Wh a t i s yo u r g o -to m e t h o d f o r overcoming creative block and finding inspiration in 2024? My go-to method for overcoming creative block and finding inspiration is to immerse myself in different forms of art and seek new experiences. I believe that creativity thrives on diversity and exposure to various artistic expressions. To break through a creative block, I often explore different mediums like music, literature, or visiting art galleries. Engaging with different art forms helps me to shift perspectives, discover fresh ideas, and ignite my imagination.

If you could give one piece of advice to a beginner in photography, what would it be? Gain knowledge about the photography business, including various ways to monetise your creations, ideas, and photographs. It’s essential to understand how to effectively generate income from your talent and passion. It can be disheartening to possess exceptional photography skills but struggle to sell your work. It’s crucial to learn not only about the art of photography but also the art of running a business. Just as owning a well is useless if you cannot sell water to a thirsty person in the desert, photographers must possess the ability to market and sell their work. So, in addition to honing your photography skills, it’s equally important to develop your business acumen.

C a n yo u s h a r e a s p e c i f i c t o o l , technology, or sof tware that has revolutionised your workflow and significantly enhanced your creative process as a photographer? It was actually a book that has revolutionised my workflow, not a tool, technology, or software, but ‘The 4-Hour Work Week.’ book This book introduced me to the concept of outsourcing tasks unrelated to the creation of my images, which has resulted in a remarkable alleviation of responsibilities. By delegating non-creative aspects of my work, I have experienced a newfound sense of creative freedom, relaxation, and the ability to dedicate more time to my family and other fulfilling pursuits in life.

What is your biggest strength and your biggest weakness as a photographer in 2024? My biggest strength: Technical Proficiency and Adaptability. I strive to maintain a high level of technical proficiency, staying up to date with the latest camera gear, editing software, and photography techniques. This enables me to produce high-quality images and adapt to evolving trends in the industry. I am also very good at self-promotion and effectively marketing my work, although, in 2024, with the growing importance of social media and online platforms, it will be crucial for me to develop stronger branding, marketing strategies, and networking skills. Improving my ability to showcase and promote my photography more would help me reach a wider audience and secure more opportunities.

I believe that creativity thrives on diversity and exposure to various artistic expressions.

What is the biggest challenge in your photography genre in 2024? What are the solutions? The biggest challenge is the rising competition and market saturation. To overcome this challenge, we should focus on developing effective marketing strategies and cultivating closer relationships with clients. Delivering exceptional results that surpass client expectations, both in terms of photography and customer service. It’s important to understand that being the best in your niche is not the only path to success. Marketing and strong public relations skills play a vital role in establishing a successful photography business. By ef fectively promoting your work and building positive relationships with clients, you can stand out in the competitive market and achieve longterm success.

What is the most important factor to consider when choosing a photography niche or specialization in 2024?

who value your specialised skills. Starting with genuine passion sets the foundation for long-term success and fulfilment as a photographer.

the beauty of your work, it is important to continuously learn and improve. The way you photograph and the subjects you choose to capture will shape how people remember you. Therefore, it is crucial to never stop learning, to constantly seek improvement, and to create images that truly reflect your vision and passion. Your photographs have the power to leave a lasting impact and become a part of your artistic legacy. ●

Choosing a photography niche involves considering various factors, but passion is crucial. Genuine interest and enjoyment in the subject matter drive motivation and result in better work. Dedication and commitment stem from this passion, leading to continuous learning and improvement. Specialising in a niche allows you to develop expertise and stand out among competitors. It enables targeted marketing to reach the specific audience interested in your niche. Differentiation in a saturated market becomes possible, attracting clients

Is there anything else you would like to add or any final thoughts you would like to share about your artistic journey, inspirations, or the impact you hope to make through your photography?

Favourite photography digital tool in 2024 — The Topaz Labs plug-ins! They have the best ones!

Can you name one unconventional location or setting that photographers should explore to create memorable images? — That’s very subjective to the photographer’s field.

One underrated photography technique that can instantly enhance a photographer’s portfolio. — Improve your understanding of colours in photography, color theory and color harmony.

What is your motto for 2024? — To double my 2023 revenue!

What is the most innovative use of technology you’ve seen in photography recently? — The use of AI to enhance photos in every single way.

Favourite Photographer in 2024 — The same as every year! Ezra Stoller. Which photography conference, workshop, event, exhibition, etc., would you recommend to photographers in 2024? — The Photography & Video Show 2024 Which social media platform do you use the most as a photographer? — Instagram and LinkedIn Will you use or experiment with NFT in 2024? — No Do you think the always-improving cameras on smartphones will result in less work for professional photographers in 2024? — No

A photographer’s legacy is the images they leave behind at the end of their life. It is essential for photographers to reflect on whether these images truly represent the legacy they want to leave behind. Striving to master the craft and refusing to settle for mediocrity is key. To be remembered for

Which photography trend will dominate the industry in 2024? — A.I. + Photography Three must-have photography gadgets or tools for aspiring photographers? — The basic! Quality mirrorless camera, 50mm prime lens and a reliable tripod! Name one unconventional source of inspiration that photographers should explore for fresh ideas in 2024. — Art Museums, look for a fella named Caravaggio, the master of light and shadow.

Which online platform or marketplace is currently the best for photographers to sell their work and reach a wider audience? — Instagram and LinkedIn Who to follow on social media or take inspiration from in 2024? — @joasphoto

Chris Gray Website: http://www.chrisgrayphoto.com Photography Genres: Portrait

Creative

Fine Art

Wedding

Surreal

Fave Camera Brand: Fujifilm

Canon

Socials:

What’s in your camera bag? • • • • • • •

2x Canon 6D mark I bodies Canon 50mm 1.4 lens Canon 85mm 1.8 lens Sigma 35mm Art Series lens Canon Speedlight Wireless flash triggers Fun filter rings and a prism

Are there any specific equipment or gear innovations that you believe will have a significant impact on the industry in 2024? Yes! I know this is still a long way in the future (or maybe not!), but I think VR technology will make its way into the photography industry for sure. Capturing images and video with a headset or something like that.

Where do you get the latest news on new gear? Where do You usually buy new gear? I’m not much of a gearhead! I really don’t keep up to date with news or look at new gear, as I find this distracts from my creativity. But if I was to buy new gear, I would definitely shop in person rather than online!

How is photography making the world a better place in 2024? I love that this art form continues to endure and find relevance year after year and cements itself further into our day-to-day

lives. We live in an increasingly visual world and are constantly bombarded by imagery on our screens - photography is helping us create captivating imagery, and the need to stand out from the crowd fuels artists and photographers to create better, more meaningful and eye-catching visuals in new and exciting ways. In wedding and family photography especially, I see how our ability to capture people in ways that surprise them can make the world a better place - to make someone smile or feel great about themselves or to help them relive special moments and memories.

What emerging photography trends do you foresee gaining popularity in 2024? I’m not much for trends, but I follow them to ensure I’m not doing what everyone else is, haha! I’m enjoying seeing the emergence of more colour in wedding photography trends, and I hope this continues over the coming years. We’ve been stuck for too long in the earth tone/boho/dull look, and I want to see more honest colour and a little more pop! Also, diversity and inclusivity is a great trend that should continue to gain popularity! Especially in the types of couples we see in the wedding photography industry.

If you could pick a photography mentor in 2024, who would you pick? Why?

Ah! That is such a great question. For wedding photography, I would love to be mentored by Sam Hurd or Jackson Grant - two artists I love right now. For fine art and conceptual portrait photography, definitely Joel Robison (a wealth of knowledge and wisdom in this industry!). I would also love to learn from Kirsty Mitchell and Holly Rose Stones because I admire their process of creating every element by hand from start to finish for a single image!

The unavoidable question: How do you see the use of artificial intelligence or machine learning impacting photography in 2024? I’m still a sideliner when it comes to AI. I hate images that are completely generated, but I’ve experimented a little with Photoshop’s new Generative Fill feature, which I think is useful. It helps artists save a lot of time in posts, like expanding a frame or removing distracting elements, etc. I like that it’s still up to the artist to start with their own image and that they are still in control of the final colour grading, etc. But it’s really up to us how heavily we rely on it, and I think most artists/photographers know what an appropriate use of AI is and what is not. None of us got here by being lazy - we still want to be able to say, “I made that”.

What is your favorite photography-related book or resource that will continue to have a significant impact on your career in 2024? Why? There are some great podcasts out there, like Great Big Photography World, which I love, and YouTube channels of artists showing their creative process, which have had a great impact. Books like Humans of New York help me remember always to see the humanity of the people I photograph.

What is your go-to method for overcoming creative block and finding inspiration in 2024? Music and movies are an endless source of inspiration! That’s where I always overcome a block. Since my work is big on colour, I am inspired by Wes Anderson films, Disney movies, and other favourites like La La Land. Some artists I’m currently listening to are Lana Del Rey and Christine & The Queens. Also, shout out to my wife, Ella, who always motivates me to create and is an endless well of creative ideas!

If you could give one piece of advice to a beginner in photography, what would it be? Be YOU! Don’t be anyone else. There are a million photographers out there who can do a good job, but none of them can offer what you personally can offer. Stay true to your values and your style, and don’t compromise for popularity or viral content. Don’t rush. Don’t make content for the sake of it. Art is supposed to be slow, despite what society expects! Don’t focus on gear; just work with what you have; often, that’s where the creativity is forced to happen. Learn always, don’t assume you know everything, and ask lots of questions. Other photographers are your friends, not your competition. There is room for everyone! And finally, share your knowledge with others!

Can you share a specific tool, technology, or software that has revolutionised your workflow and significantly enhanced your creative process as a photographer? Photoshop! That’s where I grew up as a young artist, sitting at the computer playing around with Photoshop. Often, it wasn’t perfect, but I figured things out through experimenting to make it work. And then, as an older artist, I learned better methods from smarter people, which also revolutionized my process (hello masking!). I also remember taking a course by Bella Kotak on colour grading, and that really revolutionized my colour editing and creative process too. I can now build curves like a boss!

What is your biggest strength and your biggest weakness as a photographer in 2024? I would say my biggest strength in my work is probably my eye for colour, and in the industry, it would be my passion for inclusivity and diversity. My biggest weakness is motivation and using my time to create - it feels like there’s so much other stuff to do in life, and adulting is hard! I also need to learn to prioritize art today and stop waiting for the “perfect” day.

Art is supposed to be slow, despite what society expects.

What is the biggest challenge in your photography genre in 2024? What are the solutions? Definitely standing out amongst the crowd, especially with the rise of AI. But I know there’s a bunch of us who really want to continue to show the world that there’s value and beauty in creating everything on our own without relying on technology! So the solution would be just to keep going!

What is the most important factor to consider when choosing a photography niche or specialization in 2024? Is it you? Does it make you happy? ●

Favourite photography digital tool in 2024 — Photoshop Favourite Photographer in 2024 — Jackson Grant, Holly Rose Stones Which photography conference, workshop, event, exhibition, etc., would you recommend to photographers in 2024? — Whichever is most local in your area! Community starts at a local level. But I also highly recommend Bella Kotak’s Power of Colour online course! Which social media platform do you use the most as a photographer? — Instagram Will you use or experiment with NFT in 2024? — No

Do you think the always-improving cameras on smartphones will result in less work for professional photographers in 2024? — No What is your motto for 2024? — “Be you!” Which photography trend will dominate the industry in 2024? — Bold colour, monochromatic colour. Three must-have photography gadgets or tools for aspiring photographers? — A crystal or prism for cool reflections, a film camera or Polaroid, and fun props! Name one unconventional source of inspiration that photographers should explore for fresh ideas in 2024. — The cinema!

One underrated photography technique that can instantly enhance a photographer’s portfolio. — Colour grading. 100% What is the most innovative use of technology you’ve seen in photography recently? — Probably Jeremy Cowart’s recent portrait series, where he uses a mixture of projection, light painting, long exposure, stitching and drawing to create abstract work! Who to follow on social media or take inspiration from in 2024? — Holly Rose Stones, Joel Robison, Sam Hurd, Jeremy Cowart

Jenifer Bunnett Website: https://www.jeniferbunnett.com Photography Genres: Fine Art

Landscape

Long Exposure

Nature

Fave Camera Brand: Nikon

Pentax

Socials:

What’s in your camera bag?

with what I have is, however, essential.

• • • • • • • • •

How is photography making the world a better place in 2024?

Nikon D850 Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f2.8 Sigma 14-24mm Art lens Sigma 105mm macro f2.8 ND filters, holders, etc Cable releases Lots of cleaning cloths Lip salve Bag of nuts

Are there any specific equipment or gear innovations that you believe will have a significant impact on the industry in 2024? The trend seems to be toward mirrorless and smaller kits and for the camera to do more and more convenience tricks, such as changing the focal point after the picture has been taken. But one gets used to what one knows, and I have no plans to embrace these things for now.

Where do you get the latest news on new gear? Where do You usually buy new gear? I chat with fellow photographers and read up about things online. But I only research new gear if I’m in the market and really need something. I find ‘gear’ articles boring and dislike waste. Buying the latest gadget or updating lenses whenever one comes out is wasteful and won’t improve my photography! Being very familiar

Since photography’s invention, it’s been unsurpassed at conveying the brutal reality of famine, war, etc. Now that most people carry a phone with them everywhere they go, they can record every nuance of something like the Ukraine war in a way that was impossible a decade or two ago. The Vietnam War era was changed by being the first to be televised, and today’s humanitarian disasters are changed again by the phone camera. I use my photography to show both the beauty of what humans must endeavour to preserve and to illustrate how we are so used to the status quo that we cease to notice what’s there. A single photograph can be instantly and uniquely emotive.

What emerging photography trends do you foresee gaining popularity in 2024? I suspect photography will be used to tell stories. There will be pro photographers using their genre to explain the ongoing situation in their area of interest and people armed with their phones and a passion, chasing stories to engage their followers. It’s a way of becoming engrossed in a subject and understanding it more deeply, then finding ways to convey that to a bigger audience. Rather than ignore the ugliness of plastic pollution, I am conveying it in the same way

I would my ‘beautiful’ images, which I intend to use to illustrate how the unforgivable became normal.

If you could pick a photography mentor in 2024, who would you pick? Why? Those who know me will anticipate my answer! My father was a brilliant photographer, and I probably wouldn’t have become one myself had he not been. He was unique and special, and without trying or necessarily intending to, he enabled me to look and see. Little passing comments, even unspoken gestures, often had profound effects. I admire many artists in all genres and have been influenced by them in a variety of ways. I think our past is inseparable from our art. Whatever we do will be dictated by it, whether we’re aware of it or not.

C a n yo u s h a r e a s p e c i f i c t o o l , technology, or sof tware that has revolutionised your workflow and significantly enhanced your creative process as a photographer? I used to be a photographic technician. Once the digital era hit, I had to learn a whole new world of processing. It seemed impossibly complicated! But I persevered, and Lightroom, once mastered, is very useful. I have my workflow honed to get my image ready in the shortest time possible! I rarely use Photoshop or anything else these days. I don’t want to spend much time at the computer, and Lightroom means I don’t have to.

The unavoidable question: How do you see the use of artificial intelligence or machine learning impacting photography in 2024? I dread to think! I did a quiz recently that required me to pick which AI image was out of a series of pairs. I got 6 right out of 10. That doesn’t bode well. However, none of the images were emotive or original. They were formulaic, and I’d not have noticed any of them in passing. A lot of photography is formulaic anyway. It’s hard to imagine machines managing to replicate raw human emotion. And a very worrying concept. I expect publications, competitions, etc, will begin to request proof of files to show they’re not AI images. But all creatives in every genre must be concerned.

What is your favorite photographyrelated book or resource that will continue to have a significant impact on your career in 2024? Why? I loved English lessons and my enthusiastic te ach er, wh o bro ught it all alive. Wordsworth’s words follow me around. He stole a boat, and as he rowed, the hilltops loomed in front of him. Rowing harder to get away, they loomed even larger. He quietly rowed back again, and the monsters subsided. That scene plays out in my mind all the time while I’m out with my camera! Similarly, in “The Tables Turned”, he implores you to get out there and learn from nature. And at the end of his famous “Daffodils”, he casts ‘upon that inward eye’ while recalling nature’s lessons. I love my photography books, from Don McCullin to Nick Brandt, but it’s the words in my head that accompany me on photo shoots.

Wh a t i s yo u r g o -to m e t h o d f o r overcoming creative block and finding inspiration in 2024? I am getting out there and mooching around. Something will strike me sooner or later. And if it takes a while, well, at least I’m not sitting on my sofa fretting.

If you could give one piece of advice to a beginner in photography, what would it be? Do it all the time, and if you think you’ve done well, do it better.

If you think you’ve done well, do it better.

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NFT and photography? Any thoughts? At the moment, not for me! I have been asked many, many times to sell my work as NFTs. The sums of money being offered make it very tempting. But I have two misgivings. One is the well-documented issues NFTs have concerning the environment. The other is that I find it hard to see the point of my image being a token. I love knowing they’re hanging on a wall, with a beautiful, tactile substrate enhancing the image. If NFTs continue to be popular and cease to have such a detrimental impact on our planet, maybe I’ll come around, but I will always aim to get my artwork on walls, first and foremost!

What is your biggest strength and your biggest weakness as a photographer in 2024? I have become increasingly critical of my own work over the years. I try to make sure an image really has something about it before I release it to the world. Perhaps that’s also my biggest weakness! I see many photographers claiming an idea is uniquely theirs when I’ve seen it a hundred times before. It’s very hard to be completely original, but I at least try to be brutally honest and critical of my work, and I hope to offer something refreshing.

What is the biggest challenge in your photography genre in 2024? What are the solutions? Other than AI, I guess it’s managing to ignore all the ‘noise’ around me...the “you should be doing...” or “unless you...” type stuff. I’m not sure I’m right to do so, but I spend very little time on social media at the moment because I want to contain my own thoughts, not deal with someone else’s. Photographers become slaves to social media, and while it’s nice to pop in and say ‘hi’ every now and then, for me, giving it a wider berth is suiting me well.

Favourite photography digital tool in 2024 — Lightroom Favourite Photographer in 2024 — Nick Brandt

What is the most important factor to consider when choosing a photography niche or specialisation in 2024? I don’t think one chooses a specialisation. It chooses you! If you start out by photographing everything that crosses your path, you will find yourself more in tune with certain aspects of photography, portraiture, wildlife, documentaries and so on. It will resonate with your beliefs, principles, tastes, etc. Then, once you find yourself naturally drawn to certain things, you can start learning how to do those better. Always look at lots of art! It’s amazing how it seeps into you, and your unique version will find its way out.

Is there anything else you would like to add or any final thoughts you would like to share about your artistic journey, inspirations, or the impact you hope to make through your photography?

Do you think the always-improving cameras on smartphones will result in less work for professional photographers in 2024? — No What is your motto for 2024? — “Find quietude.”

Which photography conference, workshop, event, exhibition, etc., would you recommend to photographers in 2024? — Any art exhibition! The Photography Show is exhausting, but there is a lot to see.

Which photography trend will dominate the industry in 2024? — Storytelling

Which social media platform do you use the most as a photographer? — Instagram

Three must-have photography gadgets or tools for aspiring photographers? — Depends on the genre, but for landscape, tripod, cable release/remote, graduated filters.

Will you use or experiment with NFT in 2024? — No

I realise that whatever I do next, my past will be part of it. I briefly mentioned the photographer Nick Brandt in one of the questions, and when I first saw his work at ‘The Photography Show’ in London several years ago, I was more moved by an image than I had been in a very long while. I’ve been an animal rights activist for decades, and the tragedy he portrayed in his work was stark. I don’t photograph animals, although as a student, I did make a film in a slaughterhouse, which is possibly why I don’t. I am too emotionally involved in their survival to cope with that. But Nick Brandt’s images reminded me or refreshed my memory, of photography’s power. In the coming years, I hope that my photography and that of others can find a way to help change things for the better. It can be a subtle, nonpreachy sort of medium that quietly lays bare what our planet has become and what it could be. ●

Name one unconventional source of inspiration that photographers should explore for fresh ideas in 2024. — Poetry! One underrated photography technique that can instantly enhance a photographer’s portfolio. — Cohesiveness Who to follow on social media or take inspiration from in 2024? — A photographer I particularly admire is Mary Anne Karren, who portrays the wildlife that lives on the Great Salt Lake and her endeavours to help save this essential resource.

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Alex Vita Website: https://www.foregroundweb.com/ Field: Web design & SEO

Socials:

How is photography making the world a better place in 2024? Photography will keep doing what it does best: documenting events and emotions. Regardless of any other advancements in AI, regardless of any economic or political situations, good photography (and videography) will still be needed to capture the world around us, help with storytelling, and convey meaning. Storytelling, in particular, is incredibly powerful. It can drive masses, it can change opinions, it can make an impact. And photography will always be an integral part of that.

What emerging photography trends do you foresee gaining popularity in 2024? Environmental photography is on my watchlist for 2024 to help shed more light on local and worldwide climate issues. The bigger the human impact on nature becomes, the more environmental photography will be used as an educational and advocacy tool. Otherwise, photojournalism and event photography will likely do fine because they should be less affected by AI, but I wouldn’t call them “emerging.”

If you could pick a photography mentor in 2024, who would you pick? Why? I can’t give out a name, but I’d be

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looking for someone fairly young and well-versed in business aspects of photography, some sort of business coach. The industry is becoming more about dif ferentiating yourself, about taking hard positioning decisions, not just about lighting and composition.

The unavoidable question: How do you see the use of artificial intelligence or machine learning impacting photography in 2024? I’m an optimist, but I fall into the “sooner than we think” camp when it comes to the upcoming AI disruption. I recently spoke with a quite successful headshot photographer who told me a story of a client of his (a corporate manager looking for pro headshots) who basically took a few of their past headshots, dumped them into an AI tool, which generated five new awesome headshots. The images were sharp, they captured the right facial expressions, and the lighting was good. These are just minor mistakes in the eye reflections (but it’s a matter of time before next-level AIs will also fix them).

What is your favorite photographyrelated book or resource that will continue to have a significant impact on your career in 2024? Why? I will recommend a book on pricing (specifically about ditching hourly rates and adopting value-based pricing): “Hourly Billing is Nuts” by Jonathan Stark. Many photography sub-markets are *so* saturated that clients often use price as their primary basis for decision-making. That’s when photographers can’t escape price comparisons, and they struggle. The solution is to stand out from the pack, to be unique in some way. Adopting value-based pricing forces you to position your photography business so that it can command premium prices. It takes a lot of work, and it’s difficult, but at least there’s a path and not just the hopeless f inancial desperation that some photographers experience.

Wh a t i s yo u r g o -to m e t h o d f o r overcoming creative block and finding inspiration in 2024?

Will the pro photographer be out of business soon?

Inspiration is easy to find online these days. No one struggles with a lack of sources of inspiration.

We’ll see. With every current, there’s a counter-current.

Getting “stuck,” on the other hand, is usually a mental or emotional block that requires:

- the courage to experiment with more courageous photo projects - the confidence to go off the safe path - the discipline and patience to keep trying new things even when you don’t feel like it. I’m fond of this quote by William Faulkner: “I only write when I am inspired. Fortunately, I am inspired at 9 o’clock every morning.” So, creative blocks are not about finding inspiration but about the practice of doing good work regularly.

If you could give one piece of advice to a beginner in photography, what would it be? Success depends a lot on treating photography as a business and the serious positioning decisions that go along with it. More specifically, beginner photographers need to understand, quite early, the difference between “niching” (focusing on a particular target audience) and “specializing” (becoming an expert at something) and how they can be combined. Niching is usually the easiest career path for beginner photographers because it provides a clear path to follow (just choosing a specific type of client to work with) and offers feedback and possibilities for coursecorrecting along the way.

I like what Jan Erik Waider or Trey Ratcliff have been doing in this space, and I think it works well for highly-curated limited edition series or really creative projects. Collecting beautiful art is here to stay and will move into the digital space (via NFTs). And I’m sure that fine-art photographers with huge audiences will take advantage of this trend.

What is your biggest strength and your biggest weakness as a photographer in 2024? As a web designer for photographers, my superpower is “clarity” (from having worked exclusively with photographers for more than 15 years). I’ve learned to understand where photographers get stuck and how their online presence can drive results, and I’ve developed an eye for what makes or breaks a photography website. For the sake of being vulnerable, my weakness is anxiety (with its various fears behind it), which is like a “ball and chain” slowing me down from putting my work out there more, from being more courageous on social media, from doing more live workshops or recording courses for photographers. It’s a personal thing, and I’m working through it really well in therapy.

What is the biggest challenge in your photography genre in 2024? What are the solutions?

C a n yo u s h a r e a s p e c i f i c t o o l , technology, or sof tware that has revolutionized your workflow and significantly enhanced your creative process as a photographer?

Building photography websites is changing a lot for me. Platforms are becoming easier to use, page builders have become more powerful, and AI is bound to take over some of this work soon.

I’m not a photographer, so I’ll share something from my process of building photography websites: the advancements in modern WordPress page-builders, like Elementor, have really changed what it’s like to build and manage a website.

So, I’m intentionally moving into a more consultative role as time goes by. Instead of doing all the low-level technical groundwork of web design, I focus more on the high-level goal-oriented activities that can move the needle for photographers: the strategy, the insights, and the guidance.

Goodbye to clunky WP themes that are a pain to use and back-end editors that are slow and buggy, leading to stale websites gathering dust. Websites are now a joy to manage, with fast and intuitive text and image changes. As a web designer, this new breed of pagebuilders allows me to focus more on the site’s creative direction and how it can achieve the photographer’s business goals instead of the technical minutia.

NFT and photography? Any thoughts? I see a future there. Photography as a digital collectible seems like a good fit to me. But it needs more time to go past the current “speculative” NFT market.

You should start noticing some patterns emerging. 2: Do online research to validate and get new ideas. Just do a Google search for “[specialty] in [location]”. Take some time to look at the results and study your competition’s websites. You should end up knowing both the similarities and differences between your competition.

Is there anything else you would like to add or any final thoughts you would like to share about your artistic journey, inspirations, or the impact you hope to make through your photography? Photographers should let go of the “build it and they will come” mentality. With millions of new websites online, just getting something up online does not guarantee that people will find you. It’s not enough. To put it differently, think of your website as a multiplier of the quality of work you put out. This ties into the mindset of thinking of your photography work as a business (and therefore considering it a continuous investment of your time and resources, not a one-time launch). Build it, continue working hard and then they will come. ●

It’s a challenge, and it’s fun.

What is the most important factor to consider when choosing a photography niche or specialization in 2024? Here’s a simple process for figuring out your photography business positioning (as a combination of niching and specializing):

Think of your website as a multiplier of the quality of work you put out.

1. Do “internal” research to see the patterns: list out and rank all the past clients that you’ve enjoyed working with based on how much you enjoyed working with them, whether you’d like to do more of that type of project, how much you liked the actual people you interacted with, the amount of impact your work had for the client.

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Favourite Photographer in 2024 — Jan Erik Waider Which social media platform do you use the most as a photographer? — Twitter Will you use or experiment with NFT in 2024? — Yes

Do you think the always-improving cameras on smartphones will result in less work for professional photographers in 2024? — Yes Which photography trend will dominate the industry in 2024? — AI

Which online platform or marketplace is currently the best for photographers to sell their work and reach a wider audience? — A self-hosted WordPress website: best SEO features, maximum design flexibility, speed, and ever-improving eCommerce options.

What is the most innovative use of technology you’ve seen in photography recently? — AI, of course. Who answers differently here? Ha.

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Geert Weggen Website: https://geertweggen.com/ Photography Genres: Creative

Wildlife

Advertising

Nature

Fave Camera Brand: Nikon

Socials:

What’s in your camera bag? • • • •

Nikon Z8 Nikon AF-S Nikkor 70-200mm F2.8E FL ED VR Extra cards, cleaning gear and batteries. Vanguard tripod

Are there any specific equipment or gear innovations that you believe will have a significant impact on the industry in 2024? I guess the AI will change creative photography, and the cameras will become quicker.

Where do you get the latest news on new gear? Where do You usually buy new gear? A couple of Swedish photography sites

How is photography making the world a better place in 2024? In my case, it brings a lot of people a smile, and it inspired a lot of artists and photographers.

What emerging photography trends do you foresee gaining popularity in 2024? Creative AI photography

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If you could pick a photography mentor in 2024, who would you pick? Why? For the most, I do not follow others. I have so many ideas still to capture and spend all my time at my photography. If I have to know something, I google it.

The unavoidable question: How do you see the use of artificial intelligence or machine learning impacting photography in 2024? I just mentioned this. What a possibilities creatively. Suppose I put all my photos in a software program and ask a program to make a photo with a specific theme. It can give me squirrels in scenes I still am not able to capture.

What is your favorite photographyrelated book or resource that will continue to have a significant impact on your career in 2024? Why? I mostly use Google and YouTube as sources, which work very well for me.

Wh a t i s yo u r g o -to m e t h o d f o r overcoming creative block and finding inspiration in 2024? In almost 10 years, I have never had a creative block. In fact, I have many too many ideas.

If you could give one piece of advice to a beginner in photography, what would it be? Do not follow others. Photograph only the things you love and where your passion is.

C a n yo u s h a r e a s p e c i f i c t o o l , technology, or sof tware that has revolutionized your workflow and significantly enhanced your creative process as a photographer? Some tools in Photoshop, like masks, cons awareness, cloning, etc, help me a lot.

NFT and photography? Any thoughts? NFT is a very good idea because the photographer still keeps the copyright.

What is your biggest strength and your biggest weakness as a photographer in 2024? My imagination, love for nature and creativity are very strong. I am impatient and can work much too quickly, and it is hard to say stop. I work from home, which means I am always in my workplace.

What is the biggest challenge in your photography genre in 2024? What are the solutions? The commercial site. I started to be more active in contacting publishers in different countries, and it has given very good results.

What is the most important factor to consider when choosing a photography niche or specialisation in 2024? You need to love the specialization and a lot of time.

You think we missed an important question? Feel free to both formulate and answer that question here! Any final thoughts? Feel free to add them below. The question would be something like: What kind of problems do you experience in photography? A thing that happens a lot with my photos is that artists copy my work and that companies steal my work for their products. It is good to know the rules about infringements and how to protect your work. Some practicable tips about stock markets, royalty-free and RM. ●

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Photograph only the things you love and where your passion is.

Which photography conference, workshop, event, exhibition, etc., would you recommend to photographers in 2024? — My squirrel/bird photo workshop Which social media platform do you use the most as a photographer? — Instagram Will you use or experiment with NFT in 2024? — Yes Do you think the always-improving cameras on smartphones will result in less work for professional photographers in 2024? — No Which photography trend will dominate the industry in 2024? — AI

What is your motto for 2024? — Get more customers for my books and find publishers in new countries.

One underrated photography technique that can instantly enhance a photographer’s portfolio. — Wildlife with props

One unconventional location or setting that photographers should explore to create memorable images. — High coast of Sweden

What is the most innovative use of technology you’ve seen in photography recently? — AI

Three must-have photography gadgets or tools for aspiring photographers? — Remote, good tripod and bag

Which online platform or marketplace is currently the best for photographers to sell their work and reach a wider audience? — RM stockmarkets

Name one unconventional source of inspiration that photographers should explore for fresh ideas in 2024. — Geert Weggen

Who to follow on social media or take inspiration from in 2024? — Geert Weggen

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Rylan Meadows Website: https://www.rylansamazingphotography.com/ Photography Genres: Landscape

Nature

Portrait

Travel

Wildlife

Fave Camera Brand: Nikon

Socials:

What’s in your camera bag? • • • • • • • • •

Nikon Z9 Nikon D500 Nikkor 14-24mm f/2.8 Z mount Nikkor 24-70mm f/2.8 F mount Nikkor 70-200mm f/2.8 F mount Nikkor 200-500mm f/5.6 F mount Nikon Z30 with kit lens Nikon Camera Flash Zomei M5 Tripod

Are there any specific equipment or gear innovations that you believe will have a significant impact on the industry in 2024? I don’t look for there to be any significant gear innovations that will have a significant impact on the industry until 2026. At least any affordable innovations.

Where do you get the latest news on new gear? Where do You usually buy new gear? I get the latest news on new gear from YouTube, other social media platforms, and PetaPixel. I usually buy new gear from Adorama.

How is photography making the world a better place in 2024? It is making the world a better place by spreading awareness of pressing issues as well as providing joy to people around the

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world by showcasing locations and subjects that they may never have the chance to see in person.

What emerging photography trends do you foresee gaining popularity in 2024? One trend that I foresee becoming popular is photographers combining their photographs with aspects of AI, not in a wrong way, but in a creative manner.

If you could pick a photography mentor in 2024, who would you pick? Why?

a lot of confusion for the average media consumer, especially on social media.

What is your favorite photographyrelated book or resource that will continue to have a significant impact on your career in 2024? Why? The book Stunning Digital Photography will continue to have an impact on my career. Tony and Chelsea are always creating updated images of the book, and I feel like there is still more for me to learn every time I pick it up.

I would pick Tony or Chelsea Northrup. They both have so much experience as photography educators as well as experience in so many niches of photography. They have expert advice on gear, and I believe that I could learn a lot from either of them through personal mentorship.

Wh a t i s yo u r g o -to m e t h o d f o r overcoming creative block and finding inspiration in 2024?

The unavoidable question: How do you see the use of artificial intelligence or machine learning impacting photography in 2024?

If you could give one piece of advice to a beginner in photography, what would it be?

I don’t see AI having a significant impact on photography in 2024. At the end of the day, you will need a photographer and a camera to capture a scene. Although I believe AI will adapt and begin to showcase realworld locations, it will be by combining and stealing photographs from photographers rather than actually depicting and capturing the scene in real life. I think this will create

My go-to method for overcoming creative block and finding inspiration is scrolling through Pinterest and Instagram.

Practice makes perfect. It’s cliche, but it’s true.

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C a n yo u s h a r e a s p e c i f i c t o o l , technology, or sof tware that has revolutionised your workflow and significantly enhanced your creative process as a photographer? The best tool that has revolutionized my workflow is the autofocus capabilities of my Nikon Z9. I can lock on and focus on moving subjects and capture sharp photos of them faster than I ever could with my DSLR.

NFT and photography? Any thoughts? It’s definitely an interesting topic and concept. I personally don’t understand the hype.

What is your biggest strength and your biggest weakness as a photographer in 2024? My biggest strength is my ability to quickly create engaging social media content. My biggest weakness is focusing too much on how my content performs online.

What is the biggest challenge in your photography genre in 2024? What are the solutions?

Practice makes perfect. It’s cliche, but it’s true.

I think the biggest challenge in my genre of photography is being able to find sufficient locations to photograph nature as well as having the patience to capture a perfect photo.

What is the most important factor to consider when choosing a photography niche or specialization in 2024? Choose something that you are already interested in and passionate about. ●

Favourite photography digital tool in 2024 — Lr and Ps Favourite Photographer in 2024 — Chelsea Northrup Which photography conference, workshop, event, exhibition, etc., would you recommend to photographers in 2024? — Imaging USA... I will be there! Which social media platform do you use the most as a photographer? — Instagram Will you use or experiment with NFT in 2024? — No What is your motto for 2024? — Focus more on my work and less on my social media performance.

Do you think the always-improving cameras on smartphones will result in less work for professional photographers in 2024? — No Which photography trend will dominate the industry in 2024? — Something to do with AI Three must-have photography gadgets or tools for aspiring photographers? — Tripod, lens filters, and a sturdy camera bag Name one unconventional source of inspiration that photographers should explore for fresh ideas in 2024. — Photography exhibitions

What is the most innovative use of technology you’ve seen in photography recently? — Using AI to remove distractionsin photos Which online platform or marketplace is currently the best for photographers to sell their work and reach a wider audience? — Facebook Who to follow on social media or take inspiration from in 2024? — Chelsea Northrup & Christian LeBlanc

One underrated photography technique that can instantly enhance a photographer’s portfolio. — The rule of space (compositional technique)

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Richard Levine Website: https://www.flickr.com/photos/coollessons2004/ Photography Genres: Conceptual

Fave Camera Brand: Canon

Socials:

What’s in your camera bag?

More drone photography.

• •

If you could pick a photography mentor in 2024, who would you pick? Why?

• • • •

Body: Canon EOS Rebel T3i Lenses: Canon EFS 18-55mm, Canon 50 mm, Canon Zoom Lens Ef-S 55-250mm Small tripod Umbrella Assorted lens filters, Extra camera batteries

Are there any specific equipment or gear innovations that you believe will have a significant impact on the industry in 2024?

There are two: 1.

heather~. No other photographer I know speaks volumes as much w i t h H e a t h e r ’s v i s u a l p o et r y. Enrique Salvo. No one captures the concept of the “Family of Man” better than Enrique

The digital phone will continue to make a tremendous impact on photojournalism. Everyone can capture anything for good or bad.

The unavoidable question: How do you see the use of artificial intelligence or machine learning impacting photography in 2024?

Where do you get the latest news on new gear? Where do You usually buy new gear?

AI produces amazing art. Yet it is the machine producing it, but humans are claiming credit for the images just because they paid a computer to search the Internet, melding images that others have taken and yet all these people did was give AI a few instructions. AI images will replace the human photographer’s images, forcing humans to lose commissions and possibly careers.

I don’t. Gear isn’t the most important thing for me. I don’t. Gear isn’t the most important thing for me.

How is photography making the world a better place in 2024? It is making those in power accountable. Cover-ups are difficult when there are so many images showing otherwise.

What is your favorite photographyrelated book or resource that will continue to have a significant impact on your career in 2024? Why?

What emerging photography trends do you foresee gaining popularity in 2024?

Flickr is an image-posting site. It brings me joy to discover new visual poets.

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Wh a t i s yo u r g o -to m e t h o d f o r overcoming creative block and finding inspiration in 2024? Time. It’s amazing what creative ideas can bubble up from one’s subconscious if one allows it to do so.

If you could give one piece of advice to a beginner in photography, what would it be? Shoot, shoot and shoot. Then, compare the images and upload only the best. One’s artistic sense/feeling, for want of a better description, can improve this way. One can also begin to realize what genre is preferred.

C a n yo u s h a r e a s p e c i f i c t o o l , technology, or sof tware that has revolutionised your workflow and significantly enhanced your creative process as a photographer? Photoshop

NFT and photography? Any thoughts? Anything that resists plagiarism is fine with me.

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What is your biggest strength and your biggest weakness as a photographer in 2024? My biggest strength is recognizing and describing visual poetry when I see it, though some would consider it to be very subjective. My biggest weakness is that my hand shakes too much.

What is the biggest challenge in your photography genre in 2024? What are the solutions? People claiming credits for using AI to make visual poetry. I wish that sites such as Flickr would relegate such images to a separate site. If an image does not show in the EXIF information it was taken with a camera, it is banned.

What is the most important factor to consider when choosing a photography niche or specialization in 2024? Your own heart. Go with the things you love.

Is there anything else you would like to add or any final thoughts you would like to share about your artistic journey, inspirations, or the impact you hope to make through your photography?

It’s amazing what creative ideas can bubble up from one’s subconscious if one allows it to do so.

My photography has always been about joy, passion, and visual poetry. I hope my association with photography will continue, and I wish the same for every photographer. I created a Flick group, the Little Select Gallery of Eclectic Visual Poetry, to allow others to showcase their visual poetry. I am very proud to be able to do so. ●

Favourite photography digital tool in 2024 — Photoshop Favourite Photographer in 2024 — I mentioned heather~ and Enrique Salvo (both found on Flickr) previously. Which photography conference, workshop, event, exhibition, etc., would you recommend to photographers in 2024? — Little Select Gallery of Eclectic Visual Poetry, a group found on Flickr. Which social media platform do you use the most as a photographer? — Flickr Will you use or experiment with NFT in 2024? — No

Do you think the always-improving cameras on smartphones will result in less work for professional photographers in 2024? — Yes Can you name one unconventional location or setting that photographers should explore to create memorable images? — Use your own joy, feeling and passion. Which photography trend will dominate the industry in 2024? — Sad to say, AI Three must-have photography gadgets or tools for aspiring photographers? — Actually, the tools are secondary. Use your eyes, imagination, and feelings. Name one unconventional source of inspiration that photographers should explore for fresh ideas in 2024. — Richard Levine

One underrated photography technique that can instantly enhance a photographer’s portfolio. — Try different framing. Create a bit of mystery to involve the viewer in the image. What is the most innovative use of technology you’ve seen in photography recently? — Drones Who to follow on social media or take inspiration from in 2024? — These people on Flickr to start with: R J Poole, heather~, Enrique Salvo, Mimo Khair, Gorecka, Ales Dusa, Thalia Katsiveli, Three Little Birds, Diane Sebo Powers, Taya Iv, Bettina Dupont, Jennifer Rhoades, Sparrek, Touched By Light, Pål M. Smørvik, Olga Fler, Patty

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Luana Seu Website: https://www.luanaseu.com Photography Genres: Fine Art

Portrait

Creative

Editorial

Studio

Fashion

Fave Camera Brand: Sony

Socials:

What’s in your camera bag? • • • •

Sony A7 lll R 50 MM lens 16.25 lens Prisms

Where do you get the latest news on new gear? Where do You usually buy new gear? I usually go for any type of original from Sony. I buy everything online.

How is photography making the world a better place in 2024? I am the kind of person who truly believes art can change lives. It changed mine. My art is mostly focused on showing the subjects/ models/ artists in front of me - that they matter; they are truly beautiful exactly as they are at this exact moment in time. I wouldn’t change a thing about anyone who shows up & gives me their pure vulnerability and trust. I believe this kind of artmaking can change the world. I say that without fear or shame. Always will. Art can save the world. Making art can save the world.

What emerging photography trends do you foresee gaining popularity in 2024? I see people using AI more and more. Last year, the art world was a little surprised by what it means to introduce AI as an independent visual medium. Today, I think more and more people are using it as a tool

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to make the craft run smoothly and faster. The world is focused on mass production and fast trends. Well, when it is about pure art making - there is no such thing as fast yet - Ai helped a lot of craftsmen to improve and become more efficient in their work. I’m one of the people who used Dall-e and Midjourney, and now I use Photoshop Beta ( Ai new features ) to create and make my work stand out by learning these tools and applying them without abusing them. There is a great future ahead!

If you could pick a photography mentor in 2024, who would you pick? Why? I would choose Paolo Roversi without a doubt.

The unavoidable question: How do you see the use of artificial intelligence or machine learning impacting photography in 2024? I use it very often. Especially the new feature from Photoshop that can generate almost anything in such a wonderful and accurate way. I also use Midjourney almost every week for specific work and projects. I recently finished a project where I generated over 1000 photographs. In this kind of project, I used traditional photography + AI, and it worked wonderfully, making everyone really amazed with the work.

What is your favorite photographyrelated book or resource that will

continue to have a significant impact on your career in 2024? Why? I often go back to Photography Books. I love looking at photographers that are very different compared to what I do. For example, I often look at Sebastião Salgado’s books & Annie Leibovitz’s ‘Wonderland’, which was a gift I will always love. Also, books with architecture or brutalist art.

Wh a t i s yo u r g o -to m e t h o d f o r overcoming creative block and finding inspiration in 2024? I never experienced creative block because I never allowed myself to step back and analyze too much what I do. The reason is - if I analyze too much, I freak out and block. It happened before in insignificant situations ( compared to what I do now ), like exams or little performances. I would panic. It was some sort of lesson for me in small doses. Taking that information - I believe in a continuous work ethic. A natural flow. I see myself as a river that has no reason to stop moving now because it was made to go and go and go in peace, minding my own “ business “.

If you could give one piece of advice to a beginner in photography, what would it be? This is not a regular job, this is not an office job, and - this is not a job that saves lives every day (sometimes it could, I’m

not denying that), but look at this craft, photography, as your partner. As someone who will never leave you, will always listen to you, and will forever be giving without asking for anything in return. The most passionate and pure love you’ll meet. Choose to see it as a person that also needs attention and care, love and respect, but most of all, honesty and truth. And when you do that - I promise you (and I usually avoid promises) it will be the best partner of your life.

C a n yo u s h a r e a s p e c i f i c t o o l , technology, or sof tware that has revolutionised your workflow and significantly enhanced your creative process as a photographer? Well, Photoshop became my “best friend” a couple of years ago and stayed this way since. I just embrace every change that happens in Adobe in general. Everything they will incorporate with AI. I will be there to try it and use it gladly.

NFT and photography? Any thoughts? I haven’t tried NFT yet. Someday, maybe, but for now, I’m still looking into ‘in-person’ exhibitions and galleries that are curated by people I get to meet in person.

What is your biggest strength and your biggest weakness

a s a p h o t o g r a p h e r i n 2 0 2 4? Strength - I can communicate my needs and wants to a client or a subject easily, firmly, respectfully and honestly. I know what kind of work I want to create, and I’m not afraid to communicate that.

“the more” the society asks us as individuals to accept. Yet, as creators, we need to be the leaders of change, the ones that are on the front lines and choose to work MORE, be MORE curios and become MORE without fear or second thoughts. Yes, I know. Less is more, but MORE IS ALWAYS MORE. ●

Weakness - I am still in the process of accepting my worth. I am practising daily to see myself as an artist who is worthy of being wanted and seen, yet I can call it a weakness because I am in a process, and I sometimes fail to accept my worth.

What is the biggest challenge in your photography genre in 2024? What are the solutions? I understand that AI won’t take my job as long as I learn to “ride that wave” instead of getting crushed by the amount of information and tools developed daily.

Is there anything else you would like to add or any final thoughts you would like to share about your artistic journey, inspirations, or the impact you hope to make through your photography?

As creators, we need to be the leaders of change.

I wish all the creators to be open to new possibilities to create. I wish that to myself as well because we can get overwhelmed by life at times to even consider incorporating

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Favourite photography digital tool in 2024 — Ai Adobe & Topaz Favourite Photographer in 2024 — Zhong Lin Which photography conference, workshop, event, exhibition, etc., would you recommend to photographers in 2024? — Biennale - around the world are always so great & Fotografiska New York Which social media platform do you use the most as a photographer? — Instagram Will you use or experiment with NFT in 2024? — No Do you think the always-improving cameras on smartphones will result in less work for professional photographers in 2024? — Yes

Can you name one unconventional location or setting that photographers should explore to create memorable images? — Anything underwater & in a museum that’s about to close and it is almost empty. Which photography trend will dominate the industry in 2024? — AI-generated work. What is your motto for 2024? — Just live smiling. Things will happen either way. Just live and create. Three must-have photography gadgets or tools for aspiring photographers? — Adobe, 50 mm lens, creative prisms

One underrated photography technique that can instantly enhance a photographer’s portfolio. — Painting with light. What is the most innovative use of technology you’ve seen in photography recently? — AI Which online platform or marketplace is currently the best for photographers to sell their work and reach a wider audience? — I don’t use other than my website to sell my work and book. Who to follow on social media or take inspiration from in 2024? — ZHONG LIN and Isamaya French

Name one unconventional source of inspiration that photographers should explore for fresh ideas in 2024. — Pinterest is always a good place to “surf”.

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Whitney Justesen Website: www.whitneyjustesen.com/ Photography Genres: Portrait

Wedding

Lifestyle

Travel

Fashion

Fave Camera Brand: Canon

Socials:

What’s in your camera bag? • • • • • • •

2 Canon 5D Mark III’s 24-700mm Canon lens 35mm Canon lens 50mm Canon lens 85mm Canon lens Three flashes Several light stands

Where do you get the latest news on new gear? Where do You usually buy new gear? I research through various Facebook groups, online discussion boards, and word of mouth from other photographers. If I buy a new gear, it’s either at professional photography stores, online (i.e., BH Photo, Amazon), or through other trusted photographers.

How is photography making the world a better place in 2024? I believe that photography always makes the world a better place. To be able to capture human relationships, beautiful landscapes, and important life events is one of the most amazing things I have ever been able to do in my life. Even though the world of photography is constantly changing and improving in new ways, I think that photography will be around forever as a profession and innovation.

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It’s clear that the innovation of AI tools in photography is certainly making an impression on the photo world, and so I can see that becoming more and more implemented into our profession in the near future. While I have mixed feelings about AI as a whole, I think there will be some important improvements and tools that will benefit photographers going forward.

If you could pick a photography mentor in 2024, who would you pick? Why? I always go to my friends Elizabeth Gadd and Joel Robison when I need advice or want to learn more about stepping into my photography potential. They’re some of my dearest friends, and they’re such incredible mentors. When I need mentoring in the wedding photography field, I have a few friends I always turn to, including Nataly Zigdon, Paige Nelson, Nessie Todd, Kirsten Weimer, and Safeena Padder. I am part of a pretty big photography network, so I am lucky to have several friends and teachers to go to whenever I need help.

The unavoidable question: How do you see the use of artificial intelligence or machine learning impacting photography in 2024? There’s clearly been so many new uses for AI in photography recently, and it’s all happening so fast. I can see how it can be beneficial,

and I do see a lot of exciting potential for editing when it comes to generative fill and AI noise reduction, but there are still some things that make me nervous. I am worried that large corporations, which would normally pay photographers a large amount of money for their work, will choose to instead use AI on their projects and the photographers will be pushed out. Much remains to be seen, of course, but it’ll be an interesting next few years for sure.

What is your favorite photographyrelated book or resource that will continue to have a significant impact on your career in 2024? Why? I really love learning from Masterclass, as well as photo workshops given by my friends and mentors. I’ve never been one to read many books about photography, as I’d prefer to chat one-on-one with my photography friends about their experiences and learn that way.

Wh a t i s yo u r g o -to m e t h o d f o r overcoming creative block and finding inspiration in 2024? Sometimes, I feel like I’m in a constant state of creative block if I’m honest. When I feel that way, I try to get outside and do a photo shoot that’s purely for myself. Usually, that’s conceptual self-portraits, but at times, I also try to go out into the city and just photograph what I see with a creative eye. That helps me to get out of my rut and enjoy

photography for what it is--not what society or culture expects it to be.

If you could give one piece of advice to a beginner in photography, what would it be? The best advice I would give someone starting out in photography is to build a community of photographers around them. I would not be anywhere near where I am today with my work or my life without the friendships I formed from the very beginning. I have learned so much from them, have been on many adventures, and have truly been made better because of them. I truly believe that these friends are the sole reason I’ve stuck with photography for so long.

What is your biggest strength and your biggest weakness as a photographer in 2024? I know this is a cheat answer, but I think one of my biggest strengths is also, in a way, one of my biggest weaknesses. I have a knack for various photography styles, ranging from capturing human beings to natural landscapes to fine art to interior spaces. Because of that, I also have a hard time narrowing down my focus and not knowing which direction to take my talents.

What is the most important factor to consider when choosing a photography niche or specialization in 2024? This is going to contradict what I said in an earlier response, where I mentioned my biggest weakness is not being able to choose a niche. I actually think a photographer shouldn’t have to stick to one niche--I think it’s okay to try a lot of different things with their work and see where that leads them. Of course, when it comes to professional work, there is a benefit to figuring out one particular style or genre and honing in on that, but I think it’s easier to figure that out when you try a lot of different things first.

Is there anything else you would like to add or any final thoughts you would like to share about your artistic journey, inspirations, or the impact you hope to make through your photography? I am so grateful for my photography journey-it’s been incredible in so many ways, and it’s changed my life for the better. I would never have made the friends I now have, would never have built my career, would never have moved across the ocean and travelled the world the way I have. I hope anyone considering getting into photography and building a career with it will run toward their goals with full force. ●

Photography will be around forever as a profession and innovation.

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Favourite photography digital tool in 2024 — Creating and using presets with Lightroom Favourite Photographer in 2024 — I have really been loving Bogan Ianosi’s (@lightistic on Instagram) dreamy travel film work lately, and it’s inspiring me so much. Which social media platform do you use the most as a photographer? — Instagram Will you use or experiment with NFT in 2024? — No Do you think the always-improving cameras on smartphones will result in less work for professional photographers in 2024? — No

Can you name one unconventional location or setting that photographers should explore to create memorable images? — I hope photographers will take advantage of smaller, lesser-known cities to visit and explore for their photographs rather than the trendy, overly travelled cities that everyone is visiting right now. Name one unconventional source of inspiration that photographers should explore for fresh ideas in 2024. — I think photographers should pay better attention to the small moments, the simple spaces, and the less-commonly visited spots for their photos--sometimes inspiration strikes in the most unlikely ways.

Which online platform or marketplace is currently the best for photographers to sell their work and reach a wider audience? — I’ve been using Adobe Stock, Arcangel Images, and Trevillion to sell my images. Which photography trend will dominate the industry in 2024? — AI--though I don’t fully love that, unfortunately. Who to follow on social media or take inspiration from in 2024? — I particularly like the way David Urbanke shares his editorial portrait + fashion work through individual photos and reels.

What is your motto for 2024? — “Remember why you started.”

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Daniel Wright Website: www.pictorem.com/gallery/Daniel.Wright Photography Genres: Editorial

Landscape

Sports

Stock

Wildlife

Fave Camera Brand: Nikon

Socials:

What’s in your camera bag? • • • • •

Nikon Z5 Nikkor Z 24-200 mm F4-6.3 Manfrotto Elements Tripod Pro Nano 10-stop ND Filter NISI Circular Polarizer Filter

Are there any specific equipment or gear innovations that you believe will have a significant impact on the industry in 2024? Artificial Intelligence will continue to impact photography with advancements in auto-focus, noise reduction, and image enhancement. Mirrorless camera technology will continue to advance.

Where do you get the latest news on new gear? Where do You usually buy new gear? I get news on gear from various online sources. I buy from Adorama.

How is photography making the world a better place in 2024? By creating art and capturing news events.

What emerging photography trends do you foresee gaining popularity in 2024? Smartphone photography will continue to

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grow. The technology of phone cameras is improving and making photography available to almost everyone.

If you could give one piece of advice to a beginner in photography, what would it be?

If you could pick a photography mentor in 2024, who would you pick? Why?

Learn to be your own best and worst critic. Have a discerning eye for technical quality, artistic vision, and sales potential.

A local guy named Mitch Schlimer. He’s a dedicated and ethical wildlife photographer. He’s out there every day, and he’s willing to share his knowledge and experience.

The unavoidable question: How do you see the use of artificial intelligence or machine learning impacting photography in 2024? Auto-focus improvements in cameras, noise reduction, and image enhancement in post-processing.

What is your favorite photographyrelated book or resource that will continue to have a significant impact on your career in 2024? Why? I look for trends in what is selling in stock photography. I regularly view new images on Adobe, Getty Images, and Shutterstock.

Wh a t i s yo u r g o -to m e t h o d f o r overcoming creative block and finding inspiration in 2024? I looked at photo sites online, visited galleries, and reviewed my older work.

Can you share a specific tool, technology, or software that has revolutionized your workflow and significantly enhanced your creative process as a photographer? Adobe Lightroom.

What is your biggest strength and your biggest weakness as a photographer in 2024? My strength is living in Charleston, SC, which has many photo opportunities. My weakness is not having enough time to get out and take photos.

What is the biggest challenge in your photography genre in 2024? What are the solutions? Competition is the biggest challenge. The solution is to improve my photography and market my work.

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Learn to be your own best and worst critic.

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What is the most important factor to consider when choosing a photography niche or specialization in 2024? Find something you love.

Favourite photography digital tool in 2024 — Super Resolution in Lightroom

What is your motto for 2024? — “Continue to improve.”

Favourite Photographer in 2024 — Ansel Adams

Which photography trend will dominate the industry in 2024? — Smartphone

Which photography conference, workshop, event, exhibition, etc., would you recommend to photographers in 2024? — Imaging USA by Professional Photographers of America

Three must-have photography gadgets or tools for aspiring photographers? — Daniel Wright Tripod, Filters, Extra Batteries

Which social media platform do you use the most as a photographer? — LinkedIn Will you use or experiment with NFT in 2024? — No Do you think the always-improving cameras on smartphones will result in less work for professional photographers in 2024? — Yes

Can you name one unconventional location or setting that photographers should explore to create memorable images? — Daniel Wright Local parks Name one unconventional source of inspiration that photographers should explore for fresh ideas in 2024. — Daniel Wright Art Galleries

One underrated photography technique that can instantly enhance a photographer’s portfolio. — Focus Stacking What is the most innovative use of technology you’ve seen in photography recently? — AI noise reduction and image enhancement Which online platform or marketplace is currently the best for photographers to sell their work and reach a wider audience? — Pictorem Who to follow on social media or take inspiration from in 2024? — Photography Group on LinkedIn

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Joe Redski Website: www.joeredski.com Photography Genres: Architectural

Still Life

Street

Fave Camera Brand: Ricoh GRIII

Socials:

What’s in your camera bag? • • • • • •

A7RIII Ricoh GR III Sony FE 90MM Macro Sony SEL55F18Z.AE 55mm f/1.8 ZA Lens - Black Tamron 17 - 28mm Tamron 28 - 75 mm

Are there any specific equipment or gear innovations that you believe will have a significant impact on the industry in 2024? Smaller camera bodies.

Where do you get the latest news on new gear? Where do You usually buy new gear? DPReview. I buy gear from Wex Photographic, Park Cameras, and Amazon.

How is photography making the world a better place in 2024? Photography allows the photographer to document real life, which is valuable for education, historical purposes, and artistic purposes. The medium of photography can be factored into many different subsets. Including beauty, stories, and factual documentation, and can be used for a study of detail. With nearly every mobile phone now featuring a

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camera, people of all ages from all over the world can now discover creativity through photography.

What emerging photography trends do you foresee gaining popularity in 2024? I think that high-resolution Mobile photography will only get better throughout 2024.

If you could pick a photography mentor in 2024, who would you pick? Why? If I could pick a photography mentor, it would be Harold Feinstein, the Street photographer, who is unfortunately now deceased. His incredible work is not only stunning to view, but he also displays fantastic stories within every photo. His photos, to me, encapsulate eras gone by. Moments of Americana are captured. Feelings of nostalgia and wonderment arise in me. It’s one thing to capture a beautiful photo. It takes a special photographer who can evoke such strong feelings of emotion in the viewer. His photo ‘Coney Island Teenagers’ is one of my favourites. That completely represents capturing a moment in time that would have been lost if it hadn’t been for Harold Feins.

The unavoidable question: How do you see the use of artificial intelligence or machine learning impacting photography in 2024? Auto-focus improvements in cameras, noise

I have created AI art and photography for a while now. Even though the artwork looks amazing, there is very little skill involved in creating a prompt. I think that a large proportion of the public realise this - when I have posted AI art it hasn’t been received particularly well, unlike my photography. I also think the oversaturation of amazing AI photography and artwork will become numbing to the viewer. If everything is absolutely stunning, then where is there to go from there? There will no longer be any stylistic or artistic mountains to be conquered. Apart from people who are creating AI art, I think people will become bored with it after a while.

What is your favorite photographyrelated book or resource that will continue to have a significant impact on your career in 2024? Why? DPreview is the place for me. Not only can I learn about new photography tools coming on the market, but I can also discuss photographic interests within the forum. It is also a place where you can get decent advice if you have any technical issues.

Wh a t i s yo u r g o -to m e t h o d f o r overcoming creative block and finding inspiration in 2024? There is only one cure for a creative block get out there and take photos. Inspiration is all around you.

If you could give one piece of advice to a beginner in photography, what would it be? It is quite simple, really. Practice, practice, practice, and learn, learn, learn. Websites such as photographycourse.net and my blog are the perfect places for this.

Can you share a specific tool, technology, or software that has revolutionized your workflow and significantly enhanced your creative process as a photographer? Having a significant disability in my arms,’ Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita’, I am unable to use a camera without the use of a monopod or a tripod (because I cannot hold a camera body up to my face without support). A small pocket camera such as the Ricoh GRIII, allows me to use a selfie stick with the camera mounted on top. I also use a wired shutter release cable attached to the Ricoh. Before I bought a Ricoh GR3, I only had the use of the Sony A7RIII on a tripod or a monopod. But now, the Ricoh GR3 has essentially freed my body to move quickly and efficiently when I am taking photos on the streets.

in, and this, I believe, is the case with selling NFTs. If you are dedicated to selling in this way, I believe such a venture can be fruitful. But you need to put the effort in. You cannot tackle selling NFTs half-heartedly.

you are most interested in, a niche that excites you. This can be achieved by watching various videos on each niche or, more importantly, by testing out each specialisation until you find the one that is right for you.

What is your biggest strength and your biggest weakness as a photographer in 2024?

Is there anything else you would like to add or any final thoughts you would like to share about your artistic journey, inspirations, or the impact you hope to make through your photography?

I would say that my biggest weakness as a photographer is inaction and procrastination - I can sometimes think about wanting to go out but not actually go out and take photos. My biggest strength is constantly reflecting on my process as a photographer and my photography. I strive to take unique and creative photos. And I also want to improve my craft increasingly.

What is the biggest challenge in your photography genre in 2024? What are the solutions? The biggest challenge in my photography genre in 2024 is the oversaturation of mediocre images. The only solution is to continue to improve and keep practising.

What is the most important factor to consider when choosing a photography niche or specialization in 2024?

NFT and photography? Any thoughts? I think, like any pursuit of publicising and selling your work, you need to put the effort

I think that the most important factor to consider when choosing a photography niche or specialisation in 2024 is to find the niche that

I think that I am a testament to overcoming adversity through photography. I hope that this can be an inspiration to anyone who has any doubts about their abilities. I started creating still-life photography using a shutter release cable in my home studio. I initially thought that I would never be able to go out and take photos. It wasn’t until somebody offered me a project of shooting book cover artwork that I needed to go out and shoot outdoor landscape and Street photography. I realised that I could actually take photos outdoors with the proper support (tripod or a monopod) for my camera and a shutter release cable. It wasn’t long after that I realised, in most instances, that I didn’t need a shutter release cable at all when using a larger camera. And then, not long after that, I started using a smaller pocketable camera, which allowed me to shoot pretty much exactly how I wanted, with just a selfie stick for support. This allowed me to export my creativity in ways I couldn’t have imagined. If I can do it, anyone can. ●

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If I can do it, anyone can.

Favourite photography digital tool in 2024 — Lightroom

What is your motto for 2024? — “Go forth and create.”

Favourite Photographer in 2024 — Alex Webb

Which photography trend will dominate the industry in 2024? — Mobile photography

Which photography conference, workshop, event, exhibition, etc., would you recommend to photographers in 2024? — Photokina Which social media platform do you use the most as a photographer? — Twitter Will you use or experiment with NFT in 2024? — No Do you think the always-improving cameras on smartphones will result in less work for professional photographers in 2024? — Yes

Three must-have photography gadgets or tools for aspiring photographers? — A camera, Photo Ephemeris, a computer Can you name one unconventional location or setting that photographers should explore to create memorable images? — The beach

One underrated photography technique that can instantly enhance a photographer’s portfolio. — Night photography What is the most innovative use of technology you’ve seen in photography recently? — Touchscreens Which online platform or marketplace is currently the best for photographers to sell their work and reach a wider audience? — Your website Who to follow on social media or take inspiration from in 2024? — Roman Fox, Serr, Faizal Westcott

Name one unconventional source of inspiration that photographers should explore for fresh ideas in 2024. — YouTube

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Carolyn Cheng Website: www.carolyncheng.com Photography Genres: Abstract

Aerial

Fine Art

Landscape

Fave Camera Brand: Nikon

Socials:

What’s in your camera bag? For aerial photography, I still prefer my DSLR. For landscape photography, I prefer the lightweight setup associated with a mirrorless camera. I use my mirrorless as my second camera body while up in the air. My aerial setup is: • Nikon D850 (Primary Setup) • Sigma Art 85mm, f1.4 • B+W Circular Polarizer • Nikon Z7II (Backup) • Nikon Z24-70mm, f2.8 For landscape photography, my setup is: • Nikon Z7II • Nikon Z16-35mm, f1.4 • Nikon Z24-70mm, f2.8 • Nikon Z100-400mm, f4.5-5.6 • Nikon Z105mm macro lens, f2.8

How is photography making the world a better place in 2024? As an aerial photographer, it is impossible to be in the air without noticing the sheer scale of our impact on the landscape. My photography increasingly aims to highlight contemporary issues of human activity on environments, allowing viewers to see, rather than simply imagine, this impact in a more visceral way. Photography can be a mirror to the world around us, helping us not only reflect on it but also imagine new visions for the future.

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What emerging photography trends do you foresee gaining popularity in 2024? In 2024, photographers will increasingly explore opportunities with AI, whether in the form of facilitating their workflow or potentially exploring the possibility of creating new types of imagery with AI.

If you could pick a photography mentor in 2024, who would you pick? Why? I currently have a fine art photography mentor whose guidance and insight have been tremendously helpful in my growth as a photographer. However, if I could collaborate with another photographer, it would be Ori Gerscht. His still-life photography of the natural world explores the tension between beauty and destruction as well as the multiplicity of truth. I’m highly compelled by how he takes his photography into the realm of conceptual and political storytelling.

The unavoidable question: How do you see the use of artificial intelligence or machine learning impacting photography in 2024? Photography as art consists of two elements - image making and storytelling. As image-making becomes easier and more accessible to a wider number of people through AI, photography will increasingly be more focused on the storytelling aspects of photography.

While photographers will certainly need to adapt to the changes that AI will bring, just as they have with every technology change, photographers should be comforted by the fact that AI is not yet visionary. It still relies on historical artifacts to create composites of the past, but it can’t yet conceptualize new artistic stories and paradigms for the future. In this respect, there will always be a place for artists.

What is your favorite photographyrelated book or resource that will continue to have a significant impact on your career in 2024? Why? For me, the Whitechapel series of books is helpful when I’m researching a subject for exhibition writing. They allow me to learn more about art history movements and/ or how other artists have explored certain themes through their work. The valuable insights often inform how I write about my work in a modern context.

Wh a t i s yo u r g o -to m e t h o d f o r overcoming creative block and finding inspiration in 2024? Since I work full-time, an overly busy schedule is the biggest impediment to being creative. Being in a more relaxed mental space opens up opportunities for me to be creative. Once I am in a creative state, ideas can come from global issues in the news, exposure to historical or contemporary artists, and, of course, from being in the landscape

itself. When I’m photographing, I also find that being playful and experimental are great ways to explore new creative ideas. Specifically, in the studio, new creative directions that I could not have anticipated have come from experimentation and even happy accidents.

If you could give one piece of advice to a beginner in photography, what would it be? Be patient. Developing your style takes time. The sum of your life experiences and your improving photography skills will allow your unique photographic voice to surface over time.

Can you share a specific tool, technology, or software that has revolutionized your workflow and significantly enhanced your creative process as a photographer? It’s hard to pinpoint any specific tool that has helped my creative process, but I learned how to create inversions and solarizations in Lightroom and Photoshop during the pandemic. These skills helped me grow as an artist, creating new bodies of work in the realm of still-life botanical photography, which I hadn’t explored before. Photographically, this was an exciting and creative time!

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NFT and photography? Any thoughts? I haven’t explored NFTs yet. I was lucky enough to curate my first solo exhibition in 2023. In that process, I enjoyed creating site-specific installations to ensure that each piece would work, individually and as a whole, in the physical space. Many pieces had different executions, from an impactful full wall vinyl to the Chinese scroll that hung in the window to the variously painted wood frames that complemented each specific piece. Building that physical experience isn’t possible in a digital, two-dimensional world. In that sense, I haven’t yet been drawn to the fully digital world of NFTs.

What is your biggest strength and your biggest weakness as a photographer in 2024? My strengths as a person and as a photographer are similar. I have an innate sense of curiosity as well as a strong drive and determination to realize a goal or outcome. I value continuous learning and am open to trying new approaches. When I settle on a path forward, I want to ensure that I get both the big-picture concept and the details just right. Of course, my weakness is my perfectionism! I have learned that

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sometimes an image can be better with all its imperfections.

What is the biggest challenge in your photography genre in 2024? What are the solutions? The biggest challenge with photography in 2024 is trying to create unique images amidst the homogeneity of social media. Social media can be wonderful for connecting with other photographers, but given its algorithms, it tends to encourage what’s popular vs what’s creative or unique. I think the best solution is to leverage social media for personal connections and to seek inspiration for your photography from your own life experiences, interests, and personal aesthetics.

Is there anything else you would like to add or any final thoughts you would like to share about your artistic journey, inspirations, or the impact you hope to make through your photography? In an age of AI, I believe that photographers have the ability to respond to paradigm s h i f t s , g i v e n t h e a d a pta t i o n we demonstrated during the pandemic. With a practice originally steeped in travel, I was

initially uncertain that I would find my footing and passion for photographing beyond distant aerial landscapes. While at home, I explored many genres of photography but stayed rooted in the photography of the natural world in gardens and with still-life botanical studies in the studio. I was inspired by Robert Mapplethorpe and Ori Gerscht, who have both created evocative and thought-provoking images in this realm. In learning more about Man Ray’s solarization techniques, I was able to combine these various influences and adapt them to my style, bringing in a sense of abstraction and ethereality to the still-life image, which is more typical of my work. In many respects, being forced to explore other aspects of photography inspired an incredibly creative period. It also helped me realize a unified vision for my practice that could cross genres. While AI may be daunting, it may also herald a creative environment for adaptable, curious and exploratory artists. ●

Be patient. Developing your style takes time.

Favourite photography digital tool in 2024 — Photoshop Favourite Photographer in 2024 — Most recently, I was really inspired by a body of work from Tine Poppe @tinepoppe called Gilded Lilies. It combines botanical, landscape and environmental photography all at once. She shows plants in various states of decay against climate-impacted landscapes to highlight the state of the environment today. Which photography conference, workshop, event, exhibition, etc., would you recommend to photographers in 2024? — For the most impactful learning, I have always found that a 1-on-1 workshop with a photographer with similar sensibilities who will coach you to explore your unique vision rather than coach you in theirs provides the best learning opportunity. Which social media platform do you use the most as a photographer? — Instagram

Do you think the always-improving cameras on smartphones will result in less work for professional photographers in 2024? — Yes What is your motto for 2024? — “Experiment and try new things!” Which photography trend will dominate the industry in 2024? — AI Three must-have photography gadgets or tools for aspiring photographers? — In general, I am not a gadget person. I have my camera, lenses, a circular polarizer, and a tripod in my kit. For processing, I use Lightroom and Photoshop. I keep it simple! Name one unconventional source of inspiration that photographers should explore for fresh ideas in 2024. — As landscape photographers, we are often in the field. Taking breaks to attend art history lectures and/or to see art exhibitions can often create wonderful inspiration as well.

One underrated photography technique that can instantly enhance a photographer’s portfolio. — I will go back to my motto that was asked about previously, which is play and experimentation. What is the most innovative use of technology you’ve seen in photography recently? — I’ve been impressed with what Topaz AI can do to enlarge, reduce noise, and sharpen images. Which online platform or marketplace is currently the best for photographers to sell their work and reach a wider audience? — Your website Who to follow on social media or take inspiration from in 2024? — Instagram: @tinepoppe, @ sophiegunnol, @kristamccuish, @sarahmarinophoto

Will you use or experiment with NFT in 2024? — No

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Stephen Bartkus Website: instagram.com/dadmeister69 Photography Genres: Black and White

Landscape

Fave Camera Brand: Nikon

Socials:

What’s in your camera bag? • • • • • • • •

Main Camera: Nikon D5100 Camera lenses: 18-55mm, 55-200, 55-300, and a 90mm MACRO Nikon D50 converted to an infrared camera Flash: Altura PHOTO Neutral density0.9 Deep yellow filter Polarizing filter 2 Tripods

Are there any specific equipment or gear innovations that you believe will have a significant impact on the industry in 2024? I’m reading that the industry camera incorporates Artificial Intelligence to help get better exposure and focus. Photography software advancements in photography make post-processing easier and more efficient, like Luminar NEO, an AI base. Camera sensors are becoming more advanced, offering higher resolution and better low-light performance. One exciting innovation is 3D, which can create an exciting way to view photos.

Where do you get the latest news on new gear? Where do You usually buy new gear? I just read articles from different sources dealing with photography advancement in technology with cameras and editing, from

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newspapers and photography magazines like WIRED and Fstoppers. I started using film back in the ‘60s, and the ride has been incredible.

How is photography making the world a better place in 2024? As a young person getting into photography, I would read Life magazine and be able to see the world through photographs. Today, the internet is the new magazine with journalists and people with cell phones capturing moments in history for us to view. Today, photography is helping advocate for causes like the environment and social justice, document cultural heritage, and preserve memories for future generations. In 2024, I expect photography to continue to play an important role in shaping our understanding of the world and inspiring positive change.

What emerging photography trends do you foresee gaining popularity in 2024? With drones getting so cheap, beautiful aerial views of cities and iconic locations will become a trend. I’m starting to wonder how cool it would be to photograph shots at angles and heights that were impossible to achieve. Being close to 70, I lack certain ability to travel places, and a drone would allow me more opportunities to explore and photograph. Retro and Vintage, the 1900 look of the film,

more solo outdoor photos, and more organic shots.

If you could pick a photography mentor in 2024, who would you pick? Why? Ansel Adams for his ability with B/W of how he approaches his shots. I know he was a master in the darkroom, but I just want his knowledge of how he sees and the process of the shot. I’m sure if he was alive today, with the photo editing tools at his disposal, his photos would be even more stunning.

The unavoidable question: How do you see the use of artificial intelligence or machine learning impacting photography in 2024? You cannot avoid the question as it has already impacted photography in the last decade, just like AI in automobiles. I see cameras with advanced focus abilities to be able to analyze the the shot with more detail to get a near-perfect photo. Faster burst speeds and better night shots with fewer grains. Editing is, in my opinion, headed just to hit a button, and the photo is done for you with choices of presets at your disposal.

What is your favorite photographyrelated book or resource that will continue to have a significant impact on your career in 2024? Why? To answer this question, I don’t have a favorite-related book or resource that

I use. With technology changing daily, I use YouTube as my source. I also take photography lessons on subjects that interest me or read news in photography magazines and articles from other sources.

Wh a t i s yo u r g o -to m e t h o d f o r overcoming creative block and finding inspiration in 2024?

process as a photographer. I tried Photoshop, but I never got a good grasp of this editing tool. I know it’s a tremendous editing system, but it takes a while to understand it. Luminar Neo isn’t up to the ability of PS, but it is getting there, and I have been able to do so much in a short period of time. Now, when I edit my photos, my work is more creative, and I know I can be even better.

When I get a creative block, I usually stop shooting and take a break from the camera. I will still go hiking, tour places, see a movie, meditate, or visit friends just to empty my mind. After a few days or weeks, I’ll pick up the camera with a new excitement after being stimulated by the journey. Doing all these activities helps me to refocus on new inspirations, plus the hikes and looking at new places, I usually find new inspiration.

NFT and photography? Any thoughts?

If you could give one piece of advice to a beginner in photography, what would it be?

Seeing hidden gems in out-of-the-way places to shoot. My fear of crowds when shooting has been a problem lately, and I become a chameleon in my shooting crowded places.

Enjoy the learning process. Photography is a journey, and there’s always something new to learn. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things.

C a n yo u s h a r e a s p e c i f i c t o o l , technology, or sof tware that has revolutionized your workflow and significantly enhanced your creative process as a photographer?

It sounds like a Bitcoin knockoff, and I would wait to see how it unfolds. It’s an interesting concept, but again, I’m gonna wait this one out.

What is your biggest strength and your biggest weakness as a photographer in 2024?

What is the biggest challenge in your photography genre in 2024? What are the solutions?

Does it excite me with emotions when photographing a niche like Infrared photography when I’m shooting? Trying other types of photography that I never attempted. I used to be a portrait photographer for years and just burnt out, but I may give it another go.

Is there anything else you would like to add or any final thoughts you would like to share about your artistic journey, inspirations, or the impact you hope to make through your photography? In my journey with the portraits I took of children and families, pets, and graduations, my work will be on families’ walls, in scrapbooks, wallets, and shoe boxes, and shared with other family members and friends. Some future time, those portraits will be looked at and will open memories of those times, and that’s a cool feeling to know as a portrait photographer.

You think we missed an important question? Feel free to both formulate and answer that question here! Any final thoughts? Feel free to add them below. Thank you for the opportunity. ●

Getting more comfortable in crowded areas when using my camera to take photos.

What is the most important factor to consider when choosing a photography niche or specialization in 2024?

Luminar NEO has enhanced my creative

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Photography is a journey, and there’s always something new to learn.

Favourite photography digital tool in 2024 — Luminar NEO for editing Favourite Photographer in 2024 — Ansel Adams Which social media platform do you use the most as a photographer? — Instagram

Can you name one unconventional location or setting that photographers should explore to create memorable images? — Places where you search the lesser travel.

One underrated photography technique that can instantly enhance a photographer’s portfolio. — Simplicity, don’t overcrowd your shot with too many elements.

What is your motto for 2024? — “Keep Shooting”

What is the most innovative use of technology you’ve seen in photography recently? — Artificial Intelligence in cameras and editing

Will you use or experiment with NFT in 2024? — Yes

Three must-have photography gadgets or tools for aspiring photographers? —Good tripod, memory cards, and filters.

Do you think the always-improving cameras on smartphones will result in less work for professional photographers in 2024? — No

Name one unconventional source of inspiration that photographers should explore for fresh ideas in 2024. — Stephen Bartkus

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Andrew Scrivani Website: www.andrewscrivani.com Photography Genres: Food

Lifestyle

Fave Camera Brand: Canon

Socials:

What’s in your camera bag? • •

Canon R5 Canon 5D M4

Are there any specific equipment or gear innovations that you believe will have a significant impact on the industry in 2024? The ever-improving LED light technology has and will continue to impact the industry significantly.

Where do you get the latest news on new gear? Where do You usually buy new gear? I have a good relationship with a smaller camera house in NY called Fotocare. It is great to get the kind of pro attention you get at smaller shops. I highly recommend it.

How is photography making the world a better place in 2024? The world is progressing at a very fast pace, and photography contributes to helping keep people informed, keeps them engaged and entertained and is a driving force behind major technological innovations in media, communications and AI. While it sometimes feels like the industry is being surpassed by video, photography is still a ubiquitous creative medium that has a very big place in our daily lives.

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What emerging photography trends do you foresee gaining popularity in 2024? I have seen a real interest, almost fetishization, in film photography building momentum over the past few years. Film is to photography, like what vinyl is to music. As the industry gets further from its roots, people are still curious, creative, and driven to explore older technologies. I think we will see this trend make its way further into the mainstream and a film look begin to appear commercially among the cooler, more progressive brands.

If you could pick a photography mentor in 2024, who would you pick? Why? I think that a single individual would not suffice. I think my greatest mentors over the past few years of my career have been my students. I learn so much by teaching and always have. Looking at the teaching process as a two-way street has always provided me with so much guidance and fuel for my creativity. So, in 2024, I hope to continue this practice and, in the process, stay young at heart, informed and curious.

The unavoidable question: How do you see the use of artificial intelligence or machine learning impacting photography in 2024? I think that AI will force photographers to work even harder to separate themselves from the crowd with their ideas, creativity,

empathy and humanity. These are the things that a machine cannot do or understand. When we infuse our humanity into our work as artists, it makes the work decidedly personal and intimate. As the machines improve technically, limitlessly, and flawlessly, it will be up to us to use our ideas and hearts to make work that speaks to others and our shared experiences.

What is your favorite photographyrelated book or resource that will continue to have a significant impact on your career in 2024? Why? Although it is not a book about photography, it is a book about what it means to be an artist, so “The Creative Act” by music producer Rick Rubin has been extraordinarily influential in how I think about WHY I create. The core of any creative practice is getting deeply in touch with the soul of what drives you to make things. This book is like an instructional manual on how to find that place. I recommend it for any creative, especially when we feel stuck or stagnant.

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If you could give one piece of advice to a beginner in photography, what would it be? Stay curious. Nothing is more important to any artist at any level than their level of curiosity in the world and other people’s lives. If you are eager to learn about something, do it through your camera. It is a wonderful way to grow as an artist and, even more importantly, as a person.

Wh a t i s yo u r g o -to m e t h o d f o r overcoming creative block and finding inspiration in 2024? Music and writing. I find that when I move to experience and participate in other art forms, I find my way past artist’s block. Just listening to music with a critical ear is very helpful. Find a song you have heard forever that you know inside and out, and then pick out one instrument from that song and listen to it very carefully. It will unlock something you never knew about a work you thought

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you knew intimately. Also, I write. It makes me communicate my thoughts and feelings in a different way and often will open up pathways to creativity that were not there before.

C a n yo u s h a r e a s p e c i f i c t o o l , technology, or sof tware that has revolutionized your workflow and significantly enhanced your creative process as a photographer? Coffee. No, seriously, the new AI-based tools in Photoshop and Lightroom have been an incredible spark to my creativity and a time saver during the shooting and editing process. These tools do exactly what I used to do but are infinitely easier and faster. Knowing what I can fix quickly in postproduction offers me more time on set to create and experiment, knowing that I do not have to belabor certain shots or approaches to a shot list.

NFT and photography? Any thoughts? I think it is a dead issue for now. Until more people understand and use blockchain technology in everyday life, these kinds of projects will not go anywhere. We will have fits and starts with NFT projects, but the tech is still very hard to understand and makes people uncomfortable. We need these technologies to become easier to engage with and to be explainable, a language everyone can understand for it to become a significant force in our industry.

What is your biggest strength and your biggest weakness as a photographer in 2024? My strength is my ability to create complex narratives with simple frames. My weakness is that sometimes, I get lost in the narrative and let my technical expertise slide. I need to be able to walk and chew gum.

What is the biggest challenge in your photography genre in 2024? What are the solutions? Food photography is so ubiquitous and, quite frankly, cheap. It is a difficult business when quantity over quality becomes the catalyst for art buyers. Being unique is seen as a flaw rather than a strength, and experience has less value in a market like this. It will be up to those of us who have been seen as leaders to encourage our clients, students, and mentees to push against the “catalogization” of food photography and start creating meaningful, heart-felt, narrative imagery that our genre deserves.

What is the most important factor to consider when choosing a photography niche or specialization in 2024? When figuring out what kind of photographer you want to be, don’t look around; look inside. You need to document what you love and are passionate or curious about. Unless you put your creative soul into the work, convincing others of your authenticity will

Favourite photography digital tool in 2024 — Adobe Express Favourite Photographer in 2024 — Andrew Hetherington. He has reinvented his approach to his work, and I love how he has combined his passion with his existing style. Which photography conference, workshop, event, exhibition, etc., would you recommend to photographers in 2024? — Adobe Max Which social media platform do you use the most as a photographer? — Instagram Will you use or experiment with NFT in 2024? — No Do you think the always-improving cameras on smartphones will result in less work for professional photographers in 2024? — No What is your motto for 2024? — “Work hard. Be Nice. Same as every year.”

be very difficult. You also cannot get into this field to get rich. Be good, be passionate, and hopefully, the work will get noticed, and the rest will follow.

Is there anything else you would like to add or any final thoughts you would like to share about your artistic journey, inspirations, or the impact you hope to make through your photography? I have always thought of myself as a photographer by trade and a teacher by vocation. I hope to continue to share my experience, knowledge and passion for this art form by being around other creatives. This has always provided me with the greatest source of inspiration and drive. I also hope to continue to be collaborative with other talented and interesting artists and make provocative artworks. This is the lifestyle I always wanted to live, and by making this my life, it has consistently provided me with what I needed emotionally as a person. There is no replacement for living your passion. I encourage you to try. ●

Which photography trend will dominate the industry in 2024? — Film. Retro is in and cool. Can you name one unconventional location or setting that photographers should explore to create memorable images? — I find ghost towns really compelling. Everything in a ghost town has a stor to tell. Every object, every location and every person sticking it out in many of the shrinking towns around the world has wonderful stories to tell. Three must-have photography gadgets or tools for aspiring photographers? — A good tripod, a good LED panel and a camera bag on wheels. Name one unconventional source of inspiration that photographers should explore for fresh ideas in 2024. — Abstract art. Find the emotional responses you have and see what it makes you consider shooting.

When figuring out what kind of photographer you want to be, don’t look around; look inside.

One underrated photography technique that can instantly enhance a photographer’s portfolio. — Make prints. It is very different to experience your work printed these days. When you take some time to print your work, it may very well change your perspective on how and what you shoot. What is the most innovative use of technology you’ve seen in photography recently? — I really love what people have been doing with the “eliminate background” features in software and hardware. Photography should be fun, and these features are really a lot of fun. Which online platform or marketplace is currently the best for photographers to sell their work and reach a wider audience? — Adobe Stock Who to follow on social media or take inspiration from in 2024? — John Amaechi (@johnamaechiobe) on IG is a great thought leader who is very inspirational and always helps me have perspective especially when things are harder.

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Rebecca Sehn Website: www.rebeccasehn.com Photography Genres: Family

Fave Camera Brand: Canon

Socials:

What’s in your camera bag?

in 2024, who would you pick? Why?

• • • • •

Simply by Suzy – I love her outlook on business, but I also think that the look of her work is where the top of the family photography industry is headed.

Canon 5D Mark IV Canon 50mm 1.2 Backup Body: Canon 5D Mark II Backup Lens: Canon 50mm 1.2 Sometimes a 35mm film camera

Are there any specific equipment or gear innovations that you believe will have a significant impact on the industry in 2024? Potentially AI

Where do you get the latest news on new gear? Where do You usually buy new gear? Google Reviews. B&H, Local Camera shops or Amazon.

How is photography making the world a better place in 2024? Within family photography specifically, it helps people to feel connected and loved and reminds them of how lucky they are to have their loved ones.

What emerging photography trends do you foresee gaining popularity in 2024? Even less posing/perfection, more film, raw moments.

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The unavoidable question: How do you see the use of artificial intelligence or machine learning impacting photography in 2024? Firstly, it helps to speed up workflows– I already use AI in my editing. Soon, I’m sure we’ll see automatic head-swapping, choosing the best expression from each family member to create a new composition (but without all the Photoshop work!), or even creating a whole new photo specific to a client’s request based on the images taken during their session. I think the change in the next decade will be massive.

What is your favorite photographyrelated book or resource that will continue to have a significant impact on your career in 2024? Why? I love the photobizX podcast, which is based in Australia. I try to do a few courses each year and love reading business books, but I’ve gleaned the most gems from this podcast.

Wh a t i s yo u r g o -to m e t h o d f o r overcoming creative block and finding inspiration in 2024?

Always portfolio sessions– it’s very freeing to do work that is not paid, with no stipulations or pressure attached.

If you could give one piece of advice to a beginner in photography, what would it be? Ignore (to an extent!) what everyone else is doing. Finding your own voice is key.

C a n yo u s h a r e a s p e c i f i c t o o l , technology, or sof tware that has revolutionized your workflow and significantly enhanced your creative process as a photographer? Lightroom and ImagenAI

What is the biggest challenge in your photography genre in 2024? What are the solutions? The challenge for most photographers in my genre is charging a living wage and finding clients who will pay it– I charge premium rates and do make a good wage, but most don’t, and I think the market has come to expect that.

What is the most important factor to consider when choosing a photography niche or specialization in 2024? Do you love it? And will people pay you enough to do it? ●

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Finding your own voice is key.

Favourite photography digital tool in 2024 — Studio Ninja CRM, Imagen AI Editing

Will you use or experiment with NFT in 2024? — No

Favourite Photographer in 2024 — Simply by Suzy

Do you think the always-improving cameras on smartphones will result in less work for professional photographers in 2024? — Yes

Which photography conference, workshop, event, exhibition, etc., would you recommend to photographers in 2024? — For family photographers, Simply by Suzy or Love Daphne Mae Which social media platform do you use the most as a photographer? — Instagram

Three must-have photography gadgets or tools for aspiring photographers? — A good camera, a great computer, an amazing website.

Name one unconventional source of inspiration that photographers should explore for fresh ideas in 2024. — Classical paintings Which online platform or marketplace is currently the best for photographers to sell their work and reach a wider audience? — Google

What is the most innovative use of technology you’ve seen in photography recently? — AI editing

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Erez Marom Website: www.erezmarom.com Photography Genres: Landscape

Nature

Travel

Wildlife

Fave Camera Brand: Canon

Socials:

What’s in your camera bag? • • • • • •

Canon 5D4 Canon 11-24mm Canon 16-35mm Tamron 24-70mm Canon 70-300mm Sigma 150-600mm

How is photography making the world a better place in 2024? Photography is raising awareness of global issues, both natural and otherwise.

What emerging photography trends do you foresee gaining popularity in 2024? Even less posing/perfection, more film, raw moments.

If you could pick a photography mentor in 2024, who would you pick? Why? My good friend Ian Plant has mentored me for the last 7 years, during which we’ve been travelling and shooting together extensively. Ian is extremely smart and understands photography very deeply. It doesn’t hurt that he’s a super funny guy!

The unavoidable question: How do you see the use of artificial intelligence or machine learning impacting photography in 2024? In my field of nature photography, AI can’t

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really make an impact since AI imagery cannot be nature imagery since it depicts things that don’t exist.

What is your favorite photographyrelated book or resource that will continue to have a significant impact on your career in 2024? Why? DPReview and Petapixel are very good sites to learn about what’s happening in the photography world. I regularly write articles for DPReview.

I try not to rely on anything other than my mind and creativity. Photoshop’s new features are amazing, especially the everevolving content-aware replace, which makes it much easier to clean unwanted items in a shot. But I do try to use it sparingly.

What is your biggest strength and your biggest weakness as a photographer in 2024? Strength: self-confidence, which allows me to venture into new places and be creative without too much planning.

Wh a t i s yo u r g o -to m e t h o d f o r overcoming creative block and finding inspiration in 2024?

Weakness: I don’t care enough about social media.

Go to places you haven’t been to. Step out of your comfort zone, and you’ll find new inspiration.

What is the biggest challenge in your photography genre in 2024? What are the solutions?

If you could give one piece of advice to a beginner in photography, what would it be?

T h e u l ti m a te c h a l l e n g e i n n a tu re photography is remaining original. The solutions are to do good research and venture to less-photographed areas, as hard and futile as it sometimes proves. Spots, where everyone shoots, are bound to supply very little opportunity for unique art.

Your ultimate goal is to seek and find what differentiates you from other photographers. Once you do, you can try to capitalize on that.

C a n yo u s h a r e a s p e c i f i c t o o l , technology, or sof tware that has revolutionized your workflow and significantly enhanced your creative process as a photographer?

What is the most important factor to consider when choosing a photography niche or specialization in 2024? Your passion for that niche. ●

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Step out of your comfort zone, and you’ll find new inspiration.

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Favourite photography digital tool in 2024 — Photoshop

Will you use or experiment with NFT in 2024? — No

Favourite Photographer in 2024 — Marsel Van Oosten

Do you think the always-improving cameras on smartphones will result in less work for professional photographers in 2024? — No

Which photography conference, workshop, event, exhibition, etc., would you recommend to photographers in 2024? — My own Svalbard and Madagascar workshops! Which social media platform do you use the most as a photographer? — Facebook

What is your motto for 2024? — “Search your own path.”

Three must-have photography gadgets or tools for aspiring photographers? — Camera, Lens, tripod

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Zach Doehler Website: https://calibreus.co/ Photography Genres: Aerial

Nature

Landscape

Astrophotography

Surreal

Fave Camera Brand: Sony

Socials:

What’s in your camera bag? • • • • • • • • •

Sony A7RIV Infrared Modified 590nm Sony A7RII Sony ZV-E1 Sony RX100VA Tamron 28-200 2.8-5.6 Tamron 17-28 2.8 Tamron 150-500 5-6.7 Sigma 85 1.4 DJI Mini 3 Pro

Where do you get the latest news on new gear? Where do You usually buy new gear? I usually research and learn about new gear from social media, primarily YouTube. I try not to purchase new gear, if possible. I’ve saved a lot of money by purchasing used gear through places like Facebook Marketplace.

How is photography making the world a better place in 2024? Photography is a beautiful medium to create art and express yourself with. It forces you to pay closer attention to the world around you, to your subject, to the little details the average person doesn’t see. I think that photography deepens our appreciation for just how beautiful life is, and through the photographs we capture, we’re able to share that appreciation with others. Gratitude is one of the key elements for happiness and positivity. And I believe that

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the more gratitude we can have individually as humans, the better the world can be as a whole.

What emerging photography trends do you foresee gaining popularity in 2024? There seems to be a growing interest and trend in creating images with a cinematic and moody feel. Whether that’s through certain compositional elements, the editing, or even the ratio of the images, I could see cinematic photography being a popular trend in 2024.

If you could pick a photography mentor in 2024, who would you pick? Why? There are so many amazing photographers out there that it’s difficult to really narrow it down to just one. But Michael Shainblum has been one of my favorite photographers since I first started getting into photography back in 2016. His photography and editing style are incredible, and he’s multi-talented in other genres as well, such as videography and filmmaking. He also just really loves photography and always approaches his work with a very humble perspective, which I think is something we can all learn from and imitate.

The unavoidable question: How do you see the use of artificial intelligence or machine learning impacting photography in 2024?

It is definitely de-sensitizing people to beautiful images. Only a year ago, it took a decent amount of effort to be able to create a beautiful and unique image, whether that be through photography, digital art, painting, etc. Now, you can create something that is near-perfect within a few seconds of typing on your keyboard. I think it is important to remember, though, that while photography has only recently become a new format of creating art in the past 100+ years, older mediums of art, such as painting, drawing, instrumental music, etc, are still as popular today as ever before. AI will simply be another way of creating art, but it won’t replace photography.

What is your favorite photographyrelated book or resource that will continue to have a significant impact on your career in 2024? Why? It’s not a photography-related book per se, but my wife and I have recently been making good use of a productivity planner to plan out our work days and our business goals. This has made our vision clearer and helped us to be more productive during the days we work on my photography business. I think being able to keep up our productivity going into 2024 will be crucial for us to maintain a profitable photography business despite the slowing economy.

Don’t try to be the best artist. Just try to be unique.

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Wh a t i s yo u r g o -to m e t h o d f o r overcoming creative block and finding inspiration in 2024? Try something different. If you’re finding yourself feeling creatively unfulfilled photographing landscapes, then go photograph people, cities, or animals. If you feel bored with photography in general, try cinematography, filmmaking, writing, and so on. Doing a different form of art always helps me to overcome my creative blocks and find inspiration. I think many artists and photographers feel they need to narrow themselves into one specific niche and never leave, but this can be exhausting after a while. You need to spread your creative wings from time to time.

If you could give one piece of advice to a beginner in photography, what would it be? Shoot as much as you can. Don’t worry too much about gear. It’s a ton of fun to research and buy new gear, but often, it won’t have as significant of an impact on your art as simply getting out and shooting more often will. Also, ignore the criticisms of others. Your photos won’t be great in the beginning, but no one’s photos are. You have to practice and find your voice through your own time and experimentation. Don’t try to be the best artist. Just try to be unique.

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C a n yo u s h a r e a s p e c i f i c t o o l , technology, or sof tware that has revolutionized your workflow and significantly enhanced your creative process as a photographer? Adobe Lightroom Classic is my absolute favorite tool/sof tware for my editing workflow, and I can’t see that changing anytime soon. Every photographer needs it, in my opinion.

What is your biggest strength and your biggest weakness as a photographer in 2024? I think one of my biggest strengths as a photographer is my unique style and workflow. Many of my followers have told me that they can recognize my work without seeing a name attached to it, and I think that’s one of the greatest achievements you can reach as an artist.

NFT and photography? Any thoughts? I was among the first photographers to experiment with selling my work as NFT in the Spring of 2021 before NFT Photography really took off. I had multiple pieces collected by Caktux, the NFT Photography collector, that really started the boom and appreciation for NFT Photography. I then went on to sell more of my work to various collectors throughout 2021 and a bit in 2022. NFTs saved my career as a professional photographer during those years. Since then, the market has slowed quite a bit due to the overall crypto market. But I think the technology behind NFTs is fantastic and potentially game-changing for the future of displaying art as a whole. It is important to look past the scammy cartoon animal pictures that have given NFTs a bad reputation and pay closer attention to the technology behind them.

My biggest weakness is probably my anxiety and worries about the future. I really love and appreciate that I can do photography full-time as my job. But it truly is a challenge not knowing where your next pay cheque is coming from, especially in a slowing economy. However, if I can maintain my optimism and keep making a solid effort towards my goals, I know that everything will work out.

What is the biggest challenge in your photography genre in 2024? What are the solutions? Being able to afford to travel to new photography destinations is certainly a challenge. I think making good use of local areas near you, especially with good light and conditions, is a big help when it comes to creating new and exciting work without breaking the bank.

What is the most important factor to consider when choosing a photography niche or specialization in 2024? Just shoot what makes you happy; it’s as simple as that. Try a bunch of different photography genres and then spend more time focusing on the one you enjoy the most. If you’re trying to make a career out of this, remember that you can make money from just about any photography niche or specialization you choose to go with. Some will be easier and more profitable than others, but all will be difficult and challenging. You have to be willing to put in the effort if you want to make this your career, and you have to really love and enjoy photography first and foremost, regardless of the money. ●

Favourite photography digital tool in 2024 — Adobe Lightroom Classic Favourite Photographer in 2024 — Michael Shainblum Which social media platform do you use the most as a photographer? — Instagram and Twitter (X) Will you use or experiment with NFT in 2024? — Yes Do you think the always-improving cameras on smartphones will result in less work for professional photographers in 2024? — No What is your motto for 2024? — “Less complaining, more creating.”

Name one unconventional location or setting that photographers should explore to create memorable images? — The Canadian Rockies Three must-have photography gadgets or tools for aspiring photographers? — Adobe Lightroom, Adobe Photoshop, & the Peak Design Cuff Strap. Name one unconventional source of inspiration that photographers should explore for fresh ideas in 2024. — Nature

What is the most innovative use of technology you’ve seen in photography recently? — Sony A7RV (I Want) Which online platform or marketplace is currently the best for photographers to sell their work and reach a wider audience? — Probably Twitter (X). Who to follow on social media or take inspiration from in 2024? — Any photographer whose work you enjoy.

One underrated photography technique that can instantly enhance a photographer’s portfolio. — Shoot within an hour, either before or after sunrise/sunset.

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Jay Rowden Website: www.jayrowden.com Photography Genres: Wedding

Fave Camera Brand: Canon

Socials:

What’s in your camera bag? I work with old gear, 5d3 and 5d3. My camera bodies are workhorses. Old, battered and beaten, but I love them. I’m probably one of the last photographers to move across to mirrorless, but frankly, I could not give a toss what people think. People think buying a new camera and all the latest gear will make them happy, but I know it won’t. What makes me happy is having my money in the bank, not the bank of wealthy camera manufacturers. I only shoot on primes. It’s mostly L range, but I recently invested in the Sigma Art 50mm, which produces the most insane bokeh. Anyhow, I always carry a 24, 35, 50, 85, and 135 in the bag. Also, a pair of Canon Speedlights.

Where do you get the latest news on new gear? Where do You usually buy new gear? You’re asking the wrong person - I refuse to invest in new gear until the old gear gives up. I never read any of the industry bullshit about the latest new lens, body or gizmo. Folks, I’m telling you now. Don’t buy into it.

How is photography making the world a better place in 2024? All the documentary work out there is helping to make the world a better place, especially the incredible people on the ground in war

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zones worldwide. They’re helping to show the world what is really going on.

What emerging photography trends do you foresee gaining popularity in 2024? AI. It’s like an unavoidable train heading in our direction; you either jump on it as it passes or get left behind.

What is your favorite photographyrelated book or resource that will continue to have a significant impact on your career in 2024? Why? The Artists Way - Julia Cameron. If you don’t know it, buy a copy. Like today! A game changer for creatives.

If you could pick a photography mentor in 2024, who would you pick? Why?

Wh a t i s yo u r g o -to m e t h o d f o r overcoming creative block and finding inspiration in 2024?

Saul Leiter. I wish he were still here to mentor me. He was one of the greatest street photographers, in my opinion, especially because of his early colour work. His ability to see things that most of us would miss continues to take my breath away.

Also, a daily meditation practice has helped me enormously. If I’m looking to solve a problem, I put my phone into airplane mode and go for a long walk. It’s incredible what silence and movement do to human consciousness.

The unavoidable question: How do you see the use of artificial intelligence or machine learning impacting photography in 2024?

What is the most innovative use of technology you’ve seen in photography recently?

I am trying very hard to see AI as a force for good. It’s already here, and I believe all photographers should embrace it. There’s no doubt AI will impact certain genres. I’m not going to name them, but the writing for those genres is on the wall for everyone to see. But it’s too late to bemoan AI. The genie’s out of the bottle. The horse has bolted. It’s too late. So instead, see AI as an opportunity for growth, to learn new ways of working and being creative.

99.99999% of the new stuff I see is so derivative. Everybody is just producing the same boring anodyne work. It genuinely turns my stomach. But when I look at the work of someone like Vivienne Maier, here was someone who understood innovation with a camera....only she was self trained and was shooting her beautiful pictures in her spare time and 70 years ago!!

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If you could give one piece of advice to a beginner in photography, what would it be? Experiment. Make mistakes. Make more mistakes. Digital photography is free. Make more pictures. Then make some more. It’s a numbers game. The more pictures you make, the better you become at seeing. Ansel Adams famously said that if you are lucky, you might make 12 good pictures in a year. You need to take a shit load of pictures to find one that really hits the mark. Those really special images are rare, like diamonds in the rough. I love those beautiful, rare photographs, but don’t kid yourself because you don’t often find them in Lightroom. They’re rare as hen’s teeth, but when you spot one, that’s the motivation to try and make another one.

C a n yo u s h a r e a s p e c i f i c t o o l , technology, or sof tware that has revolutionized your workflow and significantly enhanced your creative process as a photographer? VSCO Keys. Shortcuts on the keyboard when editing are a God send. Every now and again, when Apple update the IOS, my VSCO Keys stop working, and I genuinely feel sick. They save me so much time when editing hundreds of wedding pictures.

NFT and photography? Any thoughts? I think NFT is a fad. My belief is that 5-10 years from now, a really brave kid will shout out, “The emperor’s not wearing any clothes”, and then suddenly, the crowd will say “, Oh yeah, look, the emperor is stark bollock naked”. That’s what I think—a flash in the pan.

What is your biggest strength and your biggest weakness as a photographer in 2024? My biggest weakness is my choice thus far to embrace AI, but I plan to explore MidJourney in the new year to see what’s possible. My biggest strength is my ability to connect with humans, be real, and be authentic. I am lucky because I really love people, and I see that as a strength in the times we’re living in.

What is the biggest challenge in your photography genre in 2024? What are the solutions? Over supply of talent. There are WAY too many photographers out there and not enough work to go around. It’s an insanely over-saturated market, and once there’s an oversaturation in any niche, there’s suddenly a race to the bottom, especially in the middle of the market. Everyone is competing on price, with people charging lower and lower prices. I saw an ad on Google recently advertising wedding photography for £100 an hour. On its own, £100 an hour is a great

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hourly rate, but not if the client only wants an hour. Once you factor in travel, labour costs of processing and then the costs of running your business (insurance/website, etc), then obviously, it’s unsustainable. Nope. No way.

What is the most important factor to consider when choosing a photography niche or specialization in 2024? Do something that makes your heart sing, period. If you chase the dollar, it won’t be enough to sustain you through the hard times. If you do something you truly love, it won’t be a hardship to toil away for long days, weeks and months because it makes your heart sing. It sounds woo-woo, but I can assure you it’s backed up by scientific research. ●

The more pictures you make, the better you become at seeing.

Favourite photography digital tool in 2024 — Lr CC Favourite Photographer in 2024 — Jonas Peterson AI Which photography conference, workshop, event, exhibition, etc., would you recommend to photographers in 2024? — Soak it all up. It doesn’t matter what you see. Just see as much as you can. Which social media platform do you use the most as a photographer? — Facebook

Do you think the always-improving cameras on smartphones will result in less work for professional photographers in 2024? — No What is your motto for 2024? — “Amor fati” Marcus Aurelius Which photography trend will dominate the industry in 2024? — AI Three must-have photography gadgets or tools for aspiring photographers? — DON’T BUY MORE STUFF YOU DON’T NEED! You have everything you need in your camera bag to create beautiful pictures.

Name one unconventional source of inspiration that photographers should explore for fresh ideas in 2024. — Silence One underrated photography technique that can instantly enhance a photographer’s portfolio. — Freelensing Who to follow on social media or take inspiration from in 2024? — Instagram: @jonaspeterson_ai

Will you use or experiment with NFT in 2024? — No

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Rhiannon K. Website: www.instagram.com/rhiannonk.photography/ Photography Genres: Conceptual

Creative

Portrait

Fine Art

Surreal

Fave Camera Brand: Ricoh

Socials:

What’s in your camera bag? • • • •

Canon EOS R Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 usm Fujifilm X100V Ricoh GR III

Are there any specific equipment or gear innovations that you believe will have a significant impact on the industry in 2024? I believe more photographers are leaning into something more lightweight on the shoulders, something they can bring along with them for any adventures. It’s not really about being bigger and better anymore — perhaps it’s a small, mighty camera that delivers impeccable photo quality.

Where do you get the latest news on new gear? Where do You usually buy new gear? YouTube videos and physical stores nearby.

How is photography making the world a better place in 2024? It’s undeniable that with social media constantly evolving at an incredible rate, so is the noise in our daily lives. Photography and art, in general, will allow us to create a space of our own, a world that knows no boundaries and an opportunity to look intrinsically. It’ll be the ability to share that reflection and connect with people who feel the same way.

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What emerging photography trends do you foresee gaining popularity in 2024?

Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron works. Or, drowning myself in film and art! ●

I’d love to see more conceptual photography.

If you could pick a photography mentor in 2024, who would you pick? Why? I’ve always been in awe of Rosie Hardy and Alex Stoddard. It’s the personal style they have created for themselves and the way their stories are told through composition, colours, and more.

The unavoidable question: How do you see the use of artificial intelligence or machine learning impacting photography in 2024? I foresee it’ll be of great help in fixing the nitty gritty details like retouching. It’ll save more time for bigger things.

What is your favorite photographyrelated book or resource that will continue to have a significant impact on your career in 2024? Why? I don’t have a current favourite, but I’m still looking for one!

Wh a t i s yo u r g o -to m e t h o d f o r overcoming creative block and finding inspiration in 2024? It’s all about beating that moment of selfdoubt, and I find reading books like The

Photography and art, in general, will allow us to create a space of our own.

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