As we move into 2023, the world of stock images is evolving at a rapid pace. From bold colors to authentic representation, there are many exciting trends emerging in the world of stock images. If you’re a content creator or marketer looking to stay on top of the latest trends, this article is for you. In this article, we’ll explore the top 20 stock image trends of 2023 and provide examples of how to use them in your work.

Trend #1: Bold Colors

One of the most exciting trends of 2023 is the use of bold, vibrant colors in stock images. This trend is all about grabbing attention and making a statement. Think bright yellows, hot pinks, and electric blues.

Examples:

• A stock image of a group of friends dancing in front of a bright pink background.
• A stock image of a woman wearing a bright yellow dress against a blue sky.

Trend #2: Authentic Representation

Authenticity is a buzzword in the world of marketing, and this trend is all about representing people and communities in a more authentic way. This means showing people of different ages, races, and body types in your stock images.

Examples:

• A stock image of a diverse group of coworkers working together in an office.
• A stock image of an older couple holding hands on a beach.

Trend #3: Futuristic Imagery

With technology rapidly advancing, it’s no surprise that futuristic imagery is becoming more popular in stock images. This trend is all about imagining what the world will look like in the future and creating images that reflect that vision.

Examples:

• A stock image of a city skyline at night with futuristic buildings and flying cars.
• A stock image of a woman wearing a high-tech virtual reality headset.

Trend #4: Authenticity in Business

Businesses are increasingly focused on authenticity and transparency, and this trend is all about reflecting those values in stock images. This means showing real employees, real work environments, and real products.

Examples:

• A stock image of a team of employees working in a modern office space.
• A stock image of a chef in a restaurant kitchen preparing food.

Trend #5: Nature

With concerns about climate change and the environment on the rise, it’s no surprise that nature is becoming a more popular subject in stock images. This trend is all about showcasing the beauty of the natural world.

Examples:

• A stock image of a mountain range at sunset.
• A stock image of a group of friends hiking in the woods.

Trend #6: Sustainability

Following on from the trend of nature, sustainability is also becoming an increasingly popular subject in stock images. This trend is all about showcasing eco-friendly practices and products.

Examples:

• A stock image of a woman holding a reusable water bottle.
• A stock image of a solar panel on a roof.

Trend #7: Minimalism

Minimalism has been a popular trend in design for a while now, and it’s also making its way into stock images. This trend is all about simplicity and clean lines.

Examples:

• A stock image of a single flower on a plain background.
• A stock image of a blank white wall.

Trend #8: Black and White

While bold colors are definitely a trend for 2023, black and white is also making a comeback. This trend is all about creating images with strong contrast and depth.

Examples:

• A stock image of a black and white portrait of a woman.
• A stock image of a black and white cityscape.

Trend #9: Retro Vibes

Retro styles are always popular, and this trend is all about bringing a touch of nostalgia to your stock images. Think vintage clothing, old cars, and classic patterns.

Examples:

• A stock image of a woman wearing a retro dress and sunglasses.
• A stock image of a vintage car parked on a city street.

Trend #10: Creative Textures

Texture can add depth and interest to an image, and this trend is all about experimenting with different textures in your stock images. Think concrete, wood, and metal.

Examples:

• A stock image of a concrete wall with interesting texture.
• A stock image of a piece of weathered wood.

Trend #11: Gradients

Gradients have been a popular trend in design for a while now, and they’re now making their way into stock images. This trend is all about using color gradients to create interesting and eye-catching images.

Examples:

• A stock image of a sunset with a gradient of orange and pink.
• A stock image of a geometric pattern with a gradient of blue and green.

Trend #12: Action Shots

Action shots are always popular in stock images, and this trend is all about capturing movement and energy. Think sports, dance, and outdoor activities.

Examples:

• A stock image of a skateboarder doing a trick in a skatepark.
• A stock image of a group of friends playing beach volleyball.

Trend #13: Food and Drink

Food and drink is always a popular subject in stock images, and this trend is all about showcasing interesting and unique dishes and beverages.

Examples:

• A stock image of a colorful smoothie bowl with fresh fruit.
• A stock image of a plate of sushi with chopsticks.

Trend #14: Conceptual Images

Conceptual images are becoming more popular in stock photography, and this trend is all about creating images that represent abstract concepts and ideas.

Examples:

• A stock image of a lightbulb with the word “idea” written on it.
• A stock image of a person standing at a crossroads with arrows pointing in different directions.

Trend #15: Outdoor Adventure

With more people seeking adventure and outdoor experiences, this trend is all about showcasing outdoor activities like camping, hiking, and kayaking.

Examples:

• A stock image of a group of friends roasting marshmallows around a campfire.
• A stock image of a person kayaking down a river.

Trend #16: Global Travel

As travel restrictions ease up, more people will be able to travel again, and this trend is all about showcasing different cultures and travel destinations around the world.

Examples:

• A stock image of a woman wearing a traditional Japanese kimono.
• A stock image of a sunset over the Grand Canyon.

Trend #17: Virtual and Augmented Reality

As technology advances, virtual and augmented reality are becoming more popular, and this trend is all about showcasing these technologies in stock images.

Examples:

• A stock image of a person using a virtual reality headset to explore a virtual world.
• A stock image of a person using an augmented reality app to view a product in their living room.

Trend #18: Emotionally Charged Images

Images that evoke strong emotions have always been popular in stock photography, and this trend is all about creating images that elicit strong emotional responses.

Examples:

• A stock image of a person laughing with friends.
• A stock image of a person crying alone.

Trend #19: Social Media Aesthetics

With social media being such an important part of marketing, this trend is all about creating stock images that fit with popular social media aesthetics.

Examples:

• A stock image of a person holding a cup of coffee with a pastel-colored background.
• A stock image of a person sitting at a desk with a minimalistic white and green background.

Trend #20: Creative Collages

Collages have always been a popular trend in art and design, and this trend is all about creating interesting and creative collages in stock images.