Photography manuals experiencing a resurgence in popularity, and I suspect it's due to a specific reason.
Photography Books: A 'Vinyl Moment' Amidst Digital Innovation
In the age of social media, where images are consumed at a rapid pace and often dismissed as quickly as they're seen, photography books are experiencing a resurgence in popularity. This revival, often referred to as photography's "vinyl moment," is a testament to the enduring allure of the physical medium.
Once dismissed as obsolete by digital innovation, both photography books and vinyl records have fought their way back to relevance. The physical limitations of these mediums, such as the weight and scent, are part of their appeal for many.
Tom May, a freelance writer and editor specialising in art, photography, design, and travel, has worked for esteemed publications like Professional Photography magazine, Creative Bloq, net magazine, and a wide range of mainstream titles. According to May, the success of photography books depends on the quality of work, curation, and audience connection.
The average Instagram user spends only 1.7 seconds looking at each image on their feed, a statistic that highlights the peculiar problem where photographers are producing more images but they're being seen less. This rapid consumption of images has led to a distortion in our perception of photography, causing us to overlook the depth and considered craft that often goes into each image.
Photography books, however, reward depth over virality. They offer a space for photographers to showcase their work in a more thoughtful, considered manner. Established photographers find their book projects as lucrative as their print sales, with limited editions by emerging photographers fetching serious money.
Many photography bookstores have shelves laden with titles from publishers like Void and Mack. The number of publishers dealing with photography books has increased significantly since 1999, when there were approximately 100 worldwide. Today, that number has grown to nearly 500.
One such book is "Rebels against the algorithm," written by Otto Scharmer. This book challenges the fast-paced, superficial nature of social media and advocates for a return to the considered, thoughtful approach that photography books embody.
In conclusion, while social media may have distorted our perception of photography, causing us to consume images at a rapid pace, photography books offer a refreshing alternative. They reward depth over virality and considered craft over algorithmic manipulation, making them a valuable addition to any collection.
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