Why engagement in photography is declining and what you can do about it

Photography is facing a noticeable decline in engagement across major platforms. For photographers—both hobbyists and professionals—this trend is hard to ignore. Whether it’s dwindling likes on Instagram or reduced traffic to photography blogs and portfolios, from what I see and hear from fellow photographers the struggle is real. But why is engagement in photography declining, and what can be done about it?

In this blog post, I want to explore the key reasons behind this trend and offer insights into how I think I could start to adapt to a changing digital landscape. I hope some of these ideas resonate and offer food for thought to other photographers too.

The Decline of Photography Engagement: What’s Happening?

I only started my photography journey about 3 years ago, so missed the ‘good old days’ when people could build a good following on social media from just still images if they were producing good work. Having researched this and spoken to other photographers, some common themes started to emerge as to why engagement in our photography is declining.

The Rise of Video Content

Short-form video content on TikTok and Instagram Reels has exploded in popularity. Platforms are prioritising video in their algorithms, often at the expense of static photography. Visual storytelling has shifted toward motion, sound, and interactivity. This then creates a quandary as to whether people want to step out of their comfort zone and follow suit or not.

Algorithm Fatigue

A quick search of social media and you can see some people are feeling the strain of algorithm driven platforms. One week you’re reaching thousands; the next, your work seems invisible. Many photographers can end up chasing trends, posting what they think will perform—often at the cost of their own creative joy.

My own experience with this has been conflicting.
I used to prioritise what I photographed based on how many likes an image might get at the expense of photographing what I enjoy. I’d find myself second-guessing whether to share a photo that meant something to me just because I knew it wouldn’t perform as well.

On reflection, i’m embarrassed that I actually let it bother me to be honest as this is just my hobby. I can though only imagine how the struggle might feel at times to those who rely on their work to make a full time living. I can only put it down to a feeling that my work wasn’t any good if the likes didn’t come in along with the dopamine hit we all get when a photo achieves a lot of positive interaction.

I’ve started to let go of the idea that engagement equals value. Now, I’m more focused on creating and sharing images that inspire me, not just the algorithm or what I think people might hit the ‘like’ button to.

This shift from seeking validation has helped me reconnect with why I picked up a camera in the first place.

Oversaturation and Visual Fatigue

With millions of images uploaded daily I think consumers of photography are overwhelmed. What used to stand out as unique now risks blending into a sea of similar content. The bar for "thumb-stopping" photography has risen dramatically.

Shifting User Behaviour

Social media users are increasingly seeking entertainment, quick information, or emotional impact—areas where photography alone struggles to compete. Photography as an art form remains valued, but its role in mainstream digital spaces is being redefined.

What Does This Mean for Photographers?

Diversify Your Content

While photography remains your core, consider integrating video, behind-the-scenes clips, and storytelling to keep your audience engaged. A photo with a compelling caption or a carousel with context can still perform well. I do see some photographers doing really well with this approach and providing some really engaging content.

Explore New Platforms

Don’t put all your effort into a single app. Platforms like Foto, Vero, Glass, or even newsletters and personal blogs are offering better reach and engagement for photographers in niche communities. I personally enjoy writing blogs like this as they promote discussion and I get a lot of value and enjoyment out of it. I hope the add value to a few people too.

Focus on Community Over Metrics

Build meaningful relationships with your audience. Engagement isn’t just about likes—it’s about conversation, connection, and shared passion. I have personally committed to doing more of this. If I see a photo I genuinely connect with then i’ll post a comment to that effect.

Let’s be honest—likes are easy. They take less than a second and often mean very little. I’ve had photos rack up hundreds of likes, but not a single meaningful comment or conversation. On the flip side, I’ve posted images that barely registered on the algorithm, but one person messaged me to say it reminded them of their childhood . That’s engagement. That’s impact, and that’s what I want more of.

This image I took in the Lake District last year performed well but I get very little personal satisfaction from it. For all the likes it received, it didn’t receive any other engagement. Let’s face it - it’s just a pretty scene and that’s it.

This image barely got any likes, yet it reminded me so much of my childhood. It posed so many questions when I saw this 1980’s car in this location. It generated some really engaging discussion from people making the same point. It had an impact on others and i’m proud of that.

This is definitely more gritty than pretty. Did it get many likes? Of course it didn’t. What is beautiful about a power station? To me, it told a story of an industry in decline in a small village that relied on it. I look at this image all of the time and know this village will look completely different in a years time when the towers are demolished.

Adapt Without Losing Identity

Evolving with the times doesn’t mean abandoning your style. Stay authentic, but be open to change. Try new formats, collaborate, and be where your audience actually is.

Is Photography Dying Online?

No. I don’t believe photography isn’t dying—it’s evolving. The way we consume visual content is shifting, and I think that as photographers we need to shift with it. Those who adapt without compromising their artistic voice will continue to thrive.

Final Thoughts

The decline in engagement forced me to ask a tough question: Why do I take photos?

It turns out, the answer isn’t "for likes" or "for reach." It’s for connection, expression, and the quiet magic of capturing a moment exactly how I felt it. If others connect with that, it’s a bonus. But the fulfillment now comes from creating something meaningful—not viral.

So yes, engagement is down. But the soul of photography? I think that is still very much alive, especially when we stop chasing numbers and start prioritising the stories we want to create.

Another scene that posed so many questions to me. I’ve still no idea what was actually going on here.