The photography industry has changed dramatically over the past decade, and 2025 has brought new challenges that many are struggling to overcome. With trends shifting, technology advancing, and the market becoming more competitive, it’s crucial to adapt to the evolving landscape if you want to stay ahead.
Coming to you from Prince Meyson, this honest and insightful video highlights the reasons many photographers are facing financial struggles today. One of the biggest factors is the shift from photography to video on social media platforms. When Instagram first rose to prominence, it fueled a massive boom in photography by giving creatives a platform to share their work and attract clients. Now, the algorithm favors video content, and platforms like TikTok and YouTube Shorts dominate, leaving photographers who only shoot stills behind. This change has reshaped demand, and Meyson urges you to embrace video to remain relevant.
Another issue is the oversaturation of the photography market. Cameras and lenses are more affordable than ever, and resources to learn photography are easily accessible online. As a result, more people are entering the field, creating a crowded industry with intense competition. Meyson points out that many photographers haven’t evolved their skills or strategies, leaving them struggling to stand out in a market where demand has shifted. He notes that while photography used to command higher fees, brands are now turning to influencers and content creators who deliver photos and videos in quick, budget-friendly packages.
The video also touches on how technology has shifted client expectations. AI tools and consumer trends have redefined what people look for in content. Many clients now prioritize fast turnarounds over polished, professional-quality images. Meyson explains that brands often bypass hiring photographers entirely, opting instead to work with influencers who can produce good-enough visuals while promoting their products. This change has taken a chunk out of the professional photography market and made it harder to secure high-paying gigs.
To combat these challenges, Meyson suggests a mindset shift. Embracing trends, such as learning videography, is critical. Most cameras now offer excellent video capabilities, and diversifying your skill set can make you a one-stop shop for both photo and video services. Meyson shares how he’s balanced both, with video gigs often outpacing photography in income.
Meyson also highlights the importance of diversifying your income streams. Selling presets, retouching packs, and LUTs are examples of passive income opportunities for those who build an audience. Teaching, creating courses, and working with brands on affiliate partnerships are other ways to add stability to your business. Collaborating with influencers is another smart strategy. By partnering with creators who land brand deals, you can position yourself as the go-to photographer for their projects, giving you consistent work. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Meyson.
Alex, this article presents a compelling look at the evolving photography landscape and the challenges many professionals face today. Prince Meyson’s insights into the rise of video content, market saturation, and shifting client expectations resonate deeply, especially for those of us navigating the balance between artistry and business.
At Kisau Photography, adaptation has always been key. While fashion and editorial photography remain my core focus, I’ve found that integrating video elements—whether behind-the-scenes reels, short-form fashion films, or motion-infused editorial work—has strengthened my ability to connect with audiences and brands. Video isn’t just a trend; it’s an extension of storytelling, and in an industry that values engagement, it offers another layer of creative expression.
I also see this shift reflected in The Melbourne Portraits Project. While the photo book celebrates the power of still imagery, the companion website serves as a dynamic extension of the project, using multimedia storytelling to give audiences a richer, more immersive experience. By blending photography with written narratives and evolving content, it continues to engage people long after the book’s initial release.
https://kisau.com/the-melbourne-portraits-project/
One of the biggest takeaways from this discussion is the importance of finding new ways to create value beyond just taking photos. Whether through education, digital products, or strategic collaborations, photographers today need to think like creative entrepreneurs.
Alex, what are your thoughts on balancing artistic integrity with the need to evolve commercially? How do you see photographers maintaining their distinct style while integrating new trends?
Paul Tocatlian
Kisau Photography
www.kisau.com
Twelve minutes to tell me that my photography business needs to evolve, and I need to diversify my skills. Hmmm... maybe photographers struggle because of getting caught up in the next big thing. Maybe too many photographers relied too heavily on social media from the start, and get caught up in a never-ending cycle of trying to outsmart algorithms and search results. Continually redefining your job skills might be an answer, but it also might be easier said than done. With enough motivation I could probably learn to shoot video, but at this point I don't even know where the button is on my camera for that. And adding a dozen different services dilutes the strength of what you're best at doing. It's not easy being Superman.
Humans still largely prefer interacting with humans. If your type of photography business serves customers who purchase photography regularly, pick up the phone and make a call. Make a list of the best prospects and keep bugging them. A phone call, email, handwritten note card, all of the above. Set an hour a day aside for actively engaging with potential customers. Businesses struggle for the same reason they always have: thinking that your product or service is so good that it will speak for itself.. it typically does not. Getting your work in front of the people who can generate significant income takes effort. Focus on what you do best, keep pushing it in front of the qualified best prospects, and forget all the other distractions. Make sure your message to prospects is quick and to the point. No ambiguous generalities. No hackneyed phrases. Shut up and listen to what prospects are asking for. Honestly, I've been self-employed for 45 years, and been dealing with all of these issues nearly the whole time. But the more things seem to change, the more they stay the same... old-fashioned doesn't mean it doesn't work. I said in another column that creating memorable photographs depends on becoming a memorable person.