Photography: market research reports

Photography is the practice of capturing an image for personal, professional, or commercial purposes. The photography industry consists of individuals and businesses that provide photography services. These services may involve videography for private events, still photography, and professional, retail, and wholesale uses. Photography is often utilized by newspapers, web site companies, magazines, and advertising agencies in the commercial sector.

Law enforcement sectors have utilized photography for the purposes of forensic analysis as a means of recognition, surveillance, and data storage. Photography is used by scientists to study movements and specimens.

Photography in the commercial market is used as a means of generating profit. Companies pay photographers for specific images and enhancements of the resulting photographs for the purpose of promoting advertising campaigns, fashion, editorials, food, or special events. Advertising agencies require photography to demonstrate a product or service they are trying to retail. Fashion photography frequently involves models, and the promotion of apparel, make-up, or accessories. Editorial photography is often used for magazine pieces, and food photography is used to enhance the appeal of a dish or display. Special event photography often involves portraits.

The photography industry has undergone many developments throughout time. These changes enable photographers to become more adept at their craft and more accessible for additional work, but also bring about negative connotations for the industry. With the advent of digital cameras available in abundance, the general population can now take their own photographs as well as edit them to their individual specifications without the help of a photography specialist. However, the need for the industry is still apparent, as photographers are focusing more on niche markets to continue to generate profit.