In the last 20 minutes, I’ve had ads on Instagram for Prequel, Most, and Luminar; apps that promise to transform your digital photos into film-esque shots. This style of image is everywhere: billboards, magazines, websites, my Insta feed. At first, I thought it was just another photography trend, but I’ve realized our addiction to sharing film-esque photos runs deeper than aesthetics; it’s about connection.
It started in the early 2020s. There was a sudden, unexpected demand for more authentic content, and Gen Z, being the hyper-connected, socially conscious creators they are, were more than willing to provide an antidote. People started creating and sharing images that completely contradicted the hyper-sharp, hyper-detailed photos being pumped out by AI. By incorporating grain, light leaks, and motion blur - artifacts once deemed imperfections in film photography - it was easy to create images that oozed warmth and sincerity.
