Is “Trendy” Worth it in Brand Photography?
Is it?
‘Trendy’ has it’s own value and purpose. Someone originally comes up with an idea and it before we know it, it goes viral. Many artists pick up on said trend and replicate work that is similar (if not exactly the same).
Soon enough, we have a cultural wave - or a flood images that all look and feel the same, representing same businesses in the exact same way. Do we have enough images of girl bosses at their kitchen table with their laptops? Have we seen enough Canva templates across social media?
Where is the unique nature of a company message if the first thing it’s represented by is the same as every other business? And furthermore, why do trends last so long?
Trends are not the enemy. I often dip into trends that make sense for the business I’m building a visual identity for with photography. The important thing is to remain as unique and honest in the trend as possible.
Before going with trendy, ask yourself:
Does this accurately represent the work or feeling I’m conveying with my brand?
Is this “me”, or is this just what’s popular? (Always, always, always go with what is you - not what is popular. Your brand will last longer (forever).)
Do I like neutral palates because I actually wear those clothes or styles or am I just choosing it for my brand because it’s what fits the space?
How can you portray your “why”? You own your business - there is a reason you do so. There is a reason you’ve taken the risk to put everything you have into your brand. Do you want to limit your Why to a trendy visual identity? How can you best share the heart of your work? (Get a brand photographer to help you).
Hope this helps turn the wheels to start thinking about your brands visual identity.
