With the end of 2024, we look forward to what the new year will bring to the world of photography. We’ve scoured the internet for the forecasted photography trends of 2025, so you don’t have to. Here are four of the most popular photography trends predicted for 2025.

Authenticity is projected to be one of the key trends of 2025. This stems from the influx of AI-crafted photos and videos. People crave real and authentic images that aren’t fabricated or overly digitized. Focusing on images that showcase real people candidly interacting with friends and family will draw attention to your work. If you are wanting to tap into more authentic photos, street photography is a great way to capture candid photography.

Retro has been an ongoing trend and was highlighted in our 2024 trend report as well. 2025 ushers in yet another year of retro aesthetics. It’s natural for people to draw inspiration from the past—whether in fashion, music, or design—as a way to indulge in nostalgia. While retro as a trend is here to stay, its meaning will continue to evolve over time. The new retro for 2025 is likely to spotlight a 1990s and early 2000s aesthetic. The SANDMARC Retro Filter is perfect for a timeless nostalgic look.

2024 introduced a new wave of AI in photography, and its evolution will continue in the coming years. This year, we’ll see a rise in AI surrealism, which exaggerates the use of AI and allows creatives to incorporate unique perspectives and intricate details into their images. It’s a hyper-focused embrace of AI—there’s no attempt to hide it when it’s being fully celebrated. Start editing, creating and adding unique AI effects to your iPhone photos with the Adobe Express: AI Photo and Video app.

Bright and bold colors are predicted to dominate the photography landscape in 2025. High-contrast images with unique and vibrant color pairings will take center stage. Contrast photography leverages color theory to identify striking combinations that remain visually pleasing. This trend is likely fueled by the growing use of AI in photography, which allows photographers to experiment with innovative and eye-catching color palettes.

Looking back on the 2024 trend report, it’s exciting to see which trends came to life this year. As we explore the 2025 trends, it’s fascinating to observe how the 2024 trends have evolved—for example, AI now having its own unique category called AI surrealism. Only time will tell if these new trends take hold, but even if they don’t, each one offers fresh ideas and opportunities to experiment with innovative photography practices.