Color of the Year Announced for 2024: Should Photographers Be Using It?

It's that time of year when we learn the color of the year for 2024. Which color was chosen, and why does it matter to photographers?

Early December is an important time for Pantone, the worldwide standard for color communication, as they announce their flagship color of the year for 2024. Last year's shade was PANTONE 18-1750 Viva Magenta and was chosen in part as an unconventional shade for an unconventional time. For 2024, however, Pantone 13-1023 Peach Fuzz has been given the crown and is described as being subtly sensual with the ability to communicate a message of caring and sharing, community, and collaboration.

If you're not too familiar with Peach Fuzz as a color, think of a warm pink with yellow undertones, and you'll almost be there. While I do that appreciate announcements of this kind can feel like a publicity stunt to generate sales or divert attention to a particular company, Pantone really does their homework when trying to decide which shade should be given the spotlight for the forthcoming year. By consulting with creative industries, from entertainment to fashion, to interiors and design, predictions are made on which shade will be important in the coming 12 months. For photographers that work in those industries, just knowing what the particular color of the year can only help you to earn some extra brownie points with the various creatives and clients you are trying to impress.

If you are a photographer who likes to keep up to date with current trends, this announcement is a good chance for you to embrace the color and work it into future photoshoots, various marketing materials, or even your online branding. You may also prefer to avoid the color completely if you'd rather not appear to look like you are a photographer who follows fashions gratuitously. Either way, you now know why peachy pinky tones are likely to become more dominant on the likes of social media in 2024.

What do you make of Peach Fuzz as the new color of the year? Will you be using it in your next shoot? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.