The Truth About Photography in 2026: What’s Really Coming - Episode 290

Photography is changing — but not in the way you think.As AI accelerated rapidly throughout 2025, many photographers expected the conversation to be all about tools, speed, and automation. But as this episode unfolds, a more nuanced picture begins to emerge — one centred on creativity, intention, human connection, and the long-term value of authenticity.In this annual Camera Shake tradition, 15 photographers, educators, and creative voices share their honest perspectives on where photography is heading in 2026. Drawing on real-world experience across commercial, editorial, fine-art, education, and business photography, this episode explores not just what is changing, but how photographers are responding.Rather than a single prediction, you’ll hear a wide range of viewpoints — sometimes aligned, sometimes contradictory — reflecting the reality that photography is no longer moving in one clear direction.Featuring insights from (in order of appearance):Joe McNallyhttps://www.joemcnally.comScott Kelbyhttps://www.kelbyone.comMatthew Jordan Smithhttps://www.matthewjordansmith.comKarl Taylorhttps://www.karltaylor.co.ukBooray Perryhttps://www.boorayperry.comFrank Doorhofhttps://www.frankdoorhof.comTy Turnerhttps://flashfilmacademy.comSteve Brazillhttps://www.behindtheshot.tvAndy McSweeneyhttps://www.phototourbrugge.comTroy Millerhttps://www.spicyjello.comBen Bealehttps://www.bbdigitalarts.comJames Musselwhitehttps://www.musselwhitephotography.comLenworth Johnsonhttps://lenworthjohnson.comBob Coateshttps://successful-photographer.comBob Piercehttps://www.bobpiercephotography.comCheck out Joe McNally’s new website & learning platform:https://betterpictureswithjoe.comWhether you’re navigating AI tools, refining your creative voice, or running a photography business, this episode offers grounded insight into what may matter most moving forward — beyond trends, beyond gear, and beyond algorithms.In this episode, we explore:How AI has changed photography workflows — and where it hasn’tWhy speed and automation aren’t the full storyThe growing importance of intention, taste, and human connectionHow photographers are positioning themselves for relevance in 2026Why authenticity is becoming a differentiator, not a buzzwordWhat do you think photography will look like in 2026?Are you embracing new tools, resisting them, or redefining how you work altogether?Join the conversation in the comments.If you enjoy thoughtful, long-form discussions about photography and the creative industry, consider subscribing to the Camera Shake Podcast on YouTube or your favourite podcast platform.SUPPORT THE PODCAST:www.buymeacoffee.com/camerashakeJOIN THE CAMERA SHAKE COMMUNITY:www.camerashakepodcast.comCHECK OUT OUR SPONSOR:www.platypod.comFOLLOW US ONInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/camerashakepodcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/camerashakepodcastTwitter: https://twitter.com/ShakeCameraKersten’s website:www.kerstenluts.comKersten on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/kerstenluts/https://www.instagram.com/threeheadsinarow/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.