This photo exemplifies the trend of AI-powered photo editing. Starting with an original photo of two-second grade girls on the swings behind the cafeteria, AI software was utilized to generate an abstract background with the theme of masks. During the year 2021, many photographers self-quarantining had more time to experiment with this emerging art form.
Throughout every year, styles and rages change, and this includes artists and their preferred photographic choices. In 2021, the 10 most popular photography trends ranged from images pertaining to the pandemic, differing angles and actions with both people and objects, digital editing, and diversity, to more basic photography factors such as color and authenticity. All of these trends share a similar characteristic; they create a common language amongst the photographer and customer, allowing the artist to have a target audience and the client to find the right photographer for his or her purposes. While the world continues to revamp, so does photography, representing current topics and values.
The trend of taking small community photos with friends and pets has been the result of quarantined and smaller family circles. Looking at what’s around you for inspiration has become the norm instead of venturing out to exotic places. Though all masked, these second graders at Lake Highland Preparatory School have been able to create a sense of community and friendship. (Photo by Delaney Bolstein.)In 2021, the concept of authenticity dominated photography, viewing the world through an unfiltered and unedited perspective. As part of the staff at the Tartan Café, Mrs. Pam expresses her authentic self through her love of soccer and the Liverpool F.C. team. She first became interested in soccer at the age of 18 when her friend introduced her to the team. Now, she carries the team’s anthem wherever she travels with the acronym, “You’ll Never Walk Alone” written on her arm. (Photo by Alexandra Caballero.)Photo by Alexandra Caballero.COVID-19 has changed photography, as this year there has been a major shift in wardrobes with the addition of masks. In that regard, masks have been worn all around Lake Highland’s campus, particularly by Lake Highland Speech and Debate Team members. Mr. Nathan Johnson, the Speech and Debate Coach, and Zeal Patel, a member of Speech and Debate, work together to discuss the impact of one-third of programs nationwide experiencing losses in administrators amidst Speech and Debate’s digital transition. Lake Highland’s team has made a significant effort to maintain some social aspects of team bonding in the activity during all national tournaments shifting online by competing on Lake Highland’s campus with masks. Masks as a photographic trend are emblematic of the time period we live in and are used in everyday life. (Photo by Santiago Calderon. )Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a large shift from horizontal to vertical images as mobile devices are being used over desktop ones. This beautiful building is the LHP Rex Building on the Upper School campus. This spot is one of the most popular on campus, as students are regularly seen eating lunch and relaxing there, with the trees shading them from the sun. (Photo by Kailey Calvo.)Still life art of inanimate objects has been popular for centuries, but photography allows us to take this concept to capture ordinary objects. The Lake Highland Rock Painting Club paints and distributes rocks around campus. One rock depicts the trending video game Among Us, another spreads a message of “LOVE.” (Photo by Sarah Finfrock.)Students of all ages pass through the cafeteria line every day, but some fail to notice these bright pops of colors. The color of these trays provides a sense of familiarity that can be seen as students carry their food around campus. Additionally, the colors are strikingly similar to those of Lake Highland, red and white, which goes to show how school spirit can be integrated into the community in unconventional ways. This ties back to the trend of “ode to colors,” in which photographers used a minimal color scheme with one pop of color to bring better composition to many photographs. (Photo by Luis Roldan. )From Highland House to the HCCA flags, this tree has the perfect view of many of the beautiful aspects of Lake Highland. Classes at Lake Highland have a growing interest in nature, through groups moving outside to work on projects, partner-work, and lessons being taught outside. The lake in the background is an important part to Lake Highland, as it is quite literally in the name. Oftentimes, you can see science classes participating in labs near this lake area. Photo by Arya Sant.Spending time at the playground is one of the most nostalgic memories of childhood that everyone cherishes. The playground not only gives children the opportunity to spend time outdoors but also allows them to celebrate their youth. The unforgettable feeling of freedom during playtime explains why many individuals try to recall the nostalgia of being outdoors and free in much of their photography. This nostalgic trend of wanting to visually capture the past was one of the hottest visual techniques used during 2021. (Photo by Amanda Wiboon.)Diversity has become a vital part of society by showcasing divergent cultures, genders, religions, disabilities, and other differences throughout the media and public. Similarly, as part of the top photography trends in 2021, female photography and diversity has become a popular part of creative photography, specifially for advertising. Faith Graham, grade 12, exhibited these ideas through her digital piece, Femme Fatale. Many artists aspire to send a message through their craft, as Graham did when creating a pop-art piece relating more to current times. (Photo by Rebecca Reif.)
