The evolution of the photography industry

By Gwendolyn Warren, Staff Writer

The photography industry has evolved through decades of creating new and improved cameras. Developing photographs is a long process and many photographers still stick to this technique, but digital cameras and new technology have become the evolving aspect of the photo industry. In the photo industry many major cameras have dominated the industry to now make it attainable with media.

Photography was popularized through the introduction of the pinhole camera in the 19th century. It allowed photographers to capture their best photos of landscapes and static images. A notable addition to the photography industry, which still remains a favorite, was the disposable camera, which was released in the 1980s by Fujifilm. The disposable camera was similar to the traditional film camera, but came preloaded with film and operated manually. The accessibility and easy operation of this camera made it an extremely popular choice.

A significant upgrade to the industry was the introduction of the Apple iPhones. Apple launched the first iPhone in 2007, which further advanced the photo industry with its flexibility. The iPhone caused a major shift in the photo industry, since in addition to becoming the world's most popular camera, it was the first ever smartphone with a camera. These devices allowed many to bring their tiny camera with them at all times to seamlessly capture images at all times. 

Technology like the iPhone has formatted social media, which has played an important role in photography in recent years. It is a place where many can express themselves through a lens. Cassidy Chen (’22), an aspiring photographer, expresses the importance of technology and how it has impacted the photo industry with social media. 

“I think there is better access to equipment within the photo industry because accessibility has made it so much easier for creators. Most people have phones that have high resolution cameras and due to social media, more people are turning to using cameras to create content,” Chen said. 

The photo industry is evolving every single day with its modern technology and increased access. Many young people are now pursuing photography and that allows them to have a professional social media occupation. Instagram, for example, allows people to take a photo and not have to be considered a professional photographer and encourages people to have an interest in photography.

Tessa Dillman (’22), who participates in Photo 1 at Samo, believes that the photo industry is continuously evolving everyday, but there is a lack of artistic view. Though there are many new creators, being influenced by other photographers drives the artistic style in the industry today. 

“I think it is evolving but in some ways into a more trendy and unoriginal environment. Everybody is doing the same things, it's hard to find people who are unique right now,” Dillman said. 

LA is a trendy place for influencers, filmers and musicians, which results in photography excelling.  Young people are seen purchasing expensive cameras off of Amazon or walking into a thrift store to hunt for one. The progression of photographers has not only been presented in LA, but many are persuaded by the culture in New York.

With New York portraying an artistic lifestyle for its citizens, Dillman explains that it  has become the focus for young photographers' creativity from the city being diverse and accepting people that live there and its environment.

“New York is definitely impactful for young photographers, a ton of inspiration and unique art stems that come from the area,” Dillman said. 

Even as the influence of photography is spread all around the world, many young students at Samo take the opportunity to learn about its history and the functions of a camera in photography class. 

The easy access that is now available in the photo industry is constantly growing from the advancement of technology. As the industry is evolving, many young people are influenced by the creativity the industry has and there are more and more photographers everyday.