Creativity and authenticity uttered together may seem like a paradox. Some professional photographers may even frown at photography being creative. Sure, they would think of interesting angles, positions and subjects, but most would not go out of their way to heavily edit as authenticity was always important. There was a time that many dear readers may remember which saw programs such as Photoshop associated to those that wanted to cover-up lackluster shots and make themselves look better. In 2018, that is all expected to change.
A Creative Reality:
Creative reality, which at first may sound like a phrase borrowed from the propaganda archives of despot regimes, is actually supposed to convey a sense of beauty. The concept is supposed to blend reality with creative art. These could range anywhere from double exposure to infrared photography and color manipulation. This essentially shows photography as some form of fine art. Whilst this may annoy some, if this distinction is made from the offset, it shouldn’t have any issues. With this, artists are creating their own utopic worlds with colors set to have a warm feel to them, despite it appearing almost psychedelic.
Creative/ abstract photo of the fall.
Serene Scene:
With most of the world’s population living in cities, this hyperconnectivity, photography is set to move away from various cityscapes to nature. Calm and tranquil scenes will start appearing with increased intensity in 2018. It almost attempts to visually represent an existential crisis that is affecting the human, i.e. you. Whilst this may sound like a grand term, artists are merely asking the question of what is our connection with nature and how is the world turning its back on it. This is particularly relevant in the age of climate change and global warming.
Tranquility: people are increasingly reconnecting through their camera.
Changing Perceptions of the Self:
Identity is increasingly going hand-in-hand with fluidity. People are now willing and open to take on issues such as same sex marriage or gender equality – this has been reflected in the high impact photographs that should be making the rounds in 2018. This has also burst a whole embrace of multicultural photos, where people are more willing to code mix with cultures, embracing their roots. It often makes for a colorful and interesting blend that draws the reader. Even the Royal Family in the UK are embracing these kinds of shots.
Issues of equality and openness are set to feature prominently in photography in 2018.
A Historical Blend:
With this embrace of multiculturalism, historical portraits are also coming back into the fray. In general, photography is the most authentic way to relive a time period. One can see exactly how the people of a certain period lived and felt. Actors like Jeremy Irons have even noted that the best practice for any role is to look at the people by examining paintings and photos – getting their expressions, feelings and general life at the time. In 2018, photographers are set to mesh modern photo taking technology, whilst incorporating traditional scenes, elements and even shapes.
Creating that old vibe in photos makes us reflect and enjoy the authenticity of a bygone age.
Inspired for ideas? We’d love to know what you plan on photographing in 2018. Embrace new techniques, experiment, but most crucially (as is the case for us in the Nixplay family) is to have fun, don’t be afraid to take a risk and you’ll be guaranteed to create precious moments with the camera serving as a gateway to memories that last a lifetime.
Nixplay offers consumer digital WiFi picture frames that blend well with the scene. Want to improve your photography or simply present those majestic shots in style – Nixplay frames are the perfect solution.
Bea is Nixplay’s Social Media Manager. She enjoys drinking coffee, reading about wars, and writing stories. Send her a message at beatrice.bisais@nixplay.com.