Photography Consumer Insights

Trend - On social media, especially platforms like TikTok, the "de-influencing" trend is gaining traction. This movement flips the script on traditional influencer marketing by encouraging users to critically analyze trending products and resist impulsive purchases. De-influencers often expose potential drawbacks of popular items, prompting a shift in consumer behavior. As this movement gains traction, brands are strategically engaging in de-influencing campaigns to demonstrate their commitment to sustainable practices.

Insight - Social media's relentless promotion of consumption fuels the "de-influencing" movement, as consumers grapple with the paradox of acquiring "sustainable" products that may still contribute to environmental problems. This growing awareness prompts a reevaluation of what truly brings fulfillment and a critical examination of the beneficiaries within the endless consumption cycle – primarily large corporations – and the costs borne by both consumers and the environment. Interestingly, this shift in consumer behavior has the potential to redefine the very nature of brand loyalty in the digital age.

Implications - Many wildlife photographers are foregoing shock tactics in favor of a more authentic way of depicting their subjects. By photographing animals, insects and sea creatures in unique contexts that are often up-close and personal, these artists are offering alternative narratives that attract audience engagement. This approach serves as a breath of fresh air for viewers who are over-saturated with content produced solely to shock.

Implications - Fashion brands are mimicking the look and after effects of plastic surgery with over the top portrayals of cosmetic procedures. This shift towards boldly exploring the topic represents a sense of self-awareness in the fashion industry. By acknowledging the role of the industry plays when it comes to establishing unrealistic beauty standards, these brands are able to better relate to consumers.

Implications - Recognizing the cult following behind sci-fi movies and TV shows, fashion brands are turning to galactic design to extend market appeal. By referencing otherworldly themes and space-age styles, brands are capitalizing on the popularity of futuristic aesthetics to not only add visual allure, but also connect with buyers in a more contemporary way.

Implications - Body acceptance still has a long way to go before it will reach the mainstream, but that hasn't discouraged plus-size consumers from searching for new ways to feel good about themselves. Whether it's enjoying user-generated content on the Internet or supporting body positive brands, consumers are taking a more positive, pleasure-based approach to self-acceptance.

Implications - The fashion industry claims to have embraced body diversity, but its definition of "plus-size" remains narrow. As a result, consumers feeling overlooked by the industry are gravitating towards fashion and media channels that make bold, celebratory political statements surrounding the issue. This shift towards bodily esteem suggests that consumers are searching for transparency, as well as representation, from beauty and fashion media.

Implications - Having long-since been shunned by the fashion industry, many plus-size consumers are taking matters into their own hands by creating garments, style blogs and online boutiques dedicated to the fuller-figured woman. These independent plus-size fashion ventures reveal that the industry is far from reaching body acceptance, and that plus-size consumers will go the extra mile to find the quality and variety they aren't seeing in mainstream fashion.

Implications - Keeping things simple and laid-back, celebrities, particularly those of a younger and more outspoken demographic, are moving away from revealing fashion designs toward more conservative, homespun looks. Emphasizing the notion that "less is more," modern media icons are redefining how consumers, particularly teens, view beauty. This reflects a shift toward fashion styles that consumers can relate to and easily duplicate.

Implications - Fashion editorials that mimic Hollywood franchises reflect a shift toward the hyper-acceleration of fandom and fan culture. The integration of franchises into new media speaks to a consumer desire to engage with entertainment and media beyond the screen.

Implications - Consumers love to feel as though they're getting the VIP treatment, which is being acknowledged with behind-the-scenes branding that highlights transparency and a genuine nature. This private, backstage approach to branding is resonating with consumers who have difficulty seeing the human side of business.