As much as people hate to admit it, modern lives are pretty much controlled by the Internet; the Social Lights series of images by Seymour Templar proves it.
The Brooklyn design director and photographer captures the candid moments of regular, unsuspecting people with their eyes fixated on their phone screens and other related devices even when they are in the middle of having a meal at a restaurant, smoking by the couch, or simply lurking by the street.
Social Lights by Seymour Templar tells viewers that, as the sun sets and the night dawns, they see not only the building, street and car lights anymore, but would also notice the eerie glow on people’s faces as they move their fingers over the device that they hold most dear.
Mobile Interaction Shoots
Social Lights by Seymour Templar Shows a Familiar Phenomenon
Trend Themes
1. Digital Dependency - The increasing dependence on technology for everyday tasks presents opportunities for innovation in devices and services that can address concerns over screen addiction and balance real life and online engagement.
2. Augmented Reality Socialization - Augmented reality socialization apps and platforms offer a new way to enhance real life socializing while incorporating personalized digital engagement and experiences.
3. Digital Detoxification Retreats - The rise in digital addiction and the need for unplugging presents a market for innovative retreats and services that cater to individuals that need a break from technology to rejuvenate, reconnect with real life connections, and improve mental health.
Industry Implications
1. Technology - With the digital dependency trend, further innovation in devices and software could help increase user engagement while monitoring and promoting responsible technology use.
2. Hospitality - Hospitality businesses can leverage the market demand for digital detoxification experiences to offer retreats, services, and amenities that strategically cater to customers' needs for mental health and relaxation in a digital-free environment.
3. Entertainment - With the rise in augmented reality technologies, entertainment companies can create new and engaging social experiences that combine the real and digital worlds to provide a more personalized and immersive social experience for consumers.