Wondering where the photo market is headed?

This discussion features a panel of digital print industry leaders, moderated by Marcelo Isleb, CEO of Digipix, Together, they discuss key trends and innovations shaping the photo market, particularly in the areas of customer behavior, product personalization and AI.

UK-based James Lawrence-Jones, a seasoned consultant with a rich background in photography and personalization, discusses the significant shift in consumer behavior, especially post-pandemic. The lockdown period saw a surge in photo printing, as people sought to preserve memories in physical form. He emphasizes the growing expectation for personalized products, noting that over 70% of consumers now anticipate personalized communication from brands. He also highlights the role of technology in enabling this trend, with AI enhancing product creation and image manipulation, making it easier for consumers to produce high-quality, personalized items.

Biju Paul, CEO and managing partner of Q-Art Print Digital Offset Press in India, shares insights into the Indian photo print market, which experienced a significant transformation during the pandemic. The traditional focus on B2B customers, particularly in the wedding industry, shifted toward a more consumer-oriented approach. The rise of online communities and the demand for personalized, high-quality photo products have led to innovations such as the introduction of six-color printing to capture the vibrant colors typical of Indian weddings.

Aditya Upadhyaya, founder of Super Foto in India, elaborates on the innovations in the Indian market, including the development of unique products like acrylic frames. He discusses the growing influence of social media and the role of influencers in driving brand awareness and customer loyalty. The accessibility and affordability of social media marketing have made it a vital tool for reaching diverse audiences, from Instagram-savvy youth to older demographics on Facebook.

The panel also touches on the critical role of automation in the industry. James highlights the benefits of automation, including cost reduction, consistency in quality and increased efficiency. He stresses that while automation can significantly streamline operations, it should complement, not replace, skilled human labor. The future of the photo market, James says, lies in balancing automated and manual processes, ensuring that skilled workers can focus on areas where they add the most value.

The discussion underscores the importance of staying adaptive and innovative in a rapidly changing market. From embracing new technologies and marketing strategies to leveraging the power of social media and automation, the panelists' insights provide a roadmap for digital print leaders aiming to navigate trends and grow their businesses.