Sure, photographs are memories — but they’re also home decor. And the recent growth in the home decor industry means that more consumers are looking for canvases, framing and other ways to incorporate personal photographs into their homes. But what does the growth of sources of inspiration like Pinterest coupled with an increased interest in DIY mean for photographers and photo printers? Here are 4 trends photo businesses need to know.
Style profiling is growing
While the abundance of inspiration is generally a good thing, that also leaves consumers with an overwhelming amount of options. Decor stores often curate products into different styles, making it easier to for consumers to find something that reflects their taste. Online companies use quizzes to help consumers find their style and recommend products.
So what does that mean for photography? Consumers are looking for help defining their style choices — and that applies to framing as well as the actual photograph. Photographers should work with clients ahead of time to find their personal style, perhaps by asking what photos they like and why. Framing companies shouldn’t be afraid to ask customers what their home looks like and what particular style they favor.
Budget options are becoming increasingly popular
While the home decor industry is now estimated to be worth $79 billion USD, many consumers are looking for budget options. With the growth of Pinterest and television networks like HGTV, many realize that they can get luxury looks for a lower price by attempting the project themselves.
That means pricing should always be a concern for businesses offering wall prints. Thankfully, the cost of ink and paper means that it’s often more affordable for consumers to have their photos professionally printed anyways, though some consumers will be more likely to pick up a ready-made frame over expensive custom options.
Consumers are looking for out of the box ease
Consumers that aren’t looking for DIY projects are looking for one thing: Simplicity. These are the customers that want a home decorated to fit their tastes, but don’t have the time to mess with DIY.
That’s potentially good news for photographers and photo printers — since many customers realize they don’t have the time, skills or equipment to get great wall prints themselves. Businesses making it easy for their customers are likely to have an edge by providing quick sessions with online ordering, or offering easy canvas and framing options to complement their photographs.
Matching lifestyles is essential
Home decor is highly personalized — and photos are even more so. Many decor companies categorize their products by a theme or design taste, then recommend similar products based on their customer’s browsing history.
Photographs can follow the same concept — photographers can group their props and backdrops by different styles, such as modern, urban or rustic. Framers can follow suit by arranging different options that follow a similar style together. Matching the style of prints and framing to a customer’s personal taste — and making it easy to do so — will help businesses keep customer satisfaction high.
The home decor industry is growing — and what better way to personalize your home than with photos of your own life and family? Photographers, printers and framers can take advantage of the growing trends by working to offer customers an affordable, simple product or service that matches their lifestyle.