Gen Z’s latest photo craze is the “vintage” iPhone 4. What can we learn from them?

Gen Z-ers have been calling millennials out on social media for using and doing stuff that’s totally out of fashion (ankle socks, anyone?). Despite being a millennial, I find it very amusing, but I can’t help but notice an ironic twist. A growing trend amongst Gen Z sees young people using really outdated cameras and phones. The latest craze is an iPhone – no, not the latest one, but the “vintage” iPhone 4 launched in 2010. No, that wasn’t, like, 2 years ago, it was 14 years ago. Feeling old yet?

[Related reading: iPhone 15 Pro Max: First impressions]

A recent video shot on an iPhone 4 by photographer Takanobu Sasaki went viral, racking up over 11 million views on Instagram. Sasaki attributes the video’s success to the camera’s “unique aesthetic.” He said that the photos taken with the old iPhone were “really emotional,” so he decided to buy one and see for himself.

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But Sasaki isn’t the only example, of course. Social media is brimming with hashtags like #OldiPhonePhotography and #ShotoniPhone4. One university student describes the appeal: “It’s easy because the colors and other aspects look good and emotional even without editing.” A friend of mine even told me that kids are buying old point-and-shoot digital cameras, taking photos with them, and then photographing their displays with their phones. I know, I’m confused too. And here I am, backing up my crappy 2010-ish phone photos and wishing we had better cameras back in the day.

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Why are Gen Z-ers so much into older cameras?

You have to admit – it’s kinda odd to see this fascination with outdated technology in a generation known for its digital fluency. Experts suggest it’s a reaction to information overload. Erika Takizaki, a youth consumption analyst, explains, “Gen Z is tired of the vast amount of information and technological advances.” Even I am tired at the ripe age of 35, I can only imagine what it’s like for them. At least I had a phone and internet-free childhood.

Then, the young folks apparently see a certain charm in the limitations of older iPhones. Sasaki highlights the “cute” quality of photos taken with the iPhone 4, where camera shake and high contrast create a unique, almost nostalgic, aesthetic. I would argue about the “cuteness” of those low-quality images, but hey, to each their own.

When you think about it, some millennials and boomers are into old film cameras despite all of us having smartphones and DSLRs or mirrorless cameras. We’re all nostalgic, sometimes even for the times we haven’t even experienced. But Takizaki suggests that the “iPhone 4 trend” isn’t simply a case of Gen Z latching onto a bygone era. “Every generation has nostalgia, but Gen Z might be seeking a sense of security in things that are intentionally imperfect.”

What I’d like to add is that, to me, it also seems that Gen Z-ers are more eco-conscious. For example, I see a growing trend among them to buy clothes and other items at thrift stores. Buying used, older phones and cameras could also be a step towards greater sustainability. A tiny step, but still a step.

What can we learn from Gen Z’s obsession with old phones and cameras?

In a world saturated with high-definition perfection, the grainy, lo-fi aesthetic of old iPhones and digital cameras offers a refreshing departure. I know, they don’t feel so old to us (especially us who use vintage Russian film cameras), but let’s face it –we millennials aren’t exactly spring chickens. :)

But I’m always into learning from others, and I really don’t care if they’re much younger than me. I think everyone can teach you something if you’re willing to learn, and here’s what I think we can learn from the Gen Z’s trend of using “vintage” cameras.

The beauty of imperfection: Gen Z’s love for the lo-fi aesthetic of old iPhones reminds us that technical perfection isn’t everything. Grain, noise, and even camera shake can sometimes add a unique character and emotion to photos. If you really despise those old camera phones, you can still experiment with vintage lenses to introduce some purposeful imperfection.

In relation to that, there’s a focus on emotion over detail. High-resolution cameras capture every detail, but sometimes, less is more. Gen Z’s appreciation for the rawness of old phone photos suggests that focusing on capturing a feeling or mood can be more impactful than technical precision. The limitations of old phone cameras often force you to focus on the subject and composition rather than relying on technical prowess. Learn to use elements like framing, negative space, and leading lines to draw the viewer’s eye to your subject and tell a compelling story.

Creative challenge: Limited technology in old phones forces creative problem-solving, and I’m a big fan of this. You can draw inspiration from this and challenge yourself to work with constraints. It can be an old iPhone, sure, but you can also try other things. Try using a vintage lens adapter, shooting with film, or limiting yourself to a specific color palette. Your options are endless, and restrictions can spark new ideas.

Alternatively, you can experiment with lo-fi editing. Apps and editing software can replicate the lo-fi aesthetic of old cameras. Try out these tools to add a vintage feel to your photos. Explore techniques like light leaks, color shifts, and vignetting.

Finally, using older cameras allows you to rethink the editing process. Consider using minimal editing or even embracing the straight-out-of-camera aesthetic for some projects. Sometimes, natural imperfections tell a stronger story.

Ultimately, this trend is a reminder that beauty can be found in imperfection and that, sometimes, a little technological regression can spark a wave of creative expression.

[via Digital Camera World]

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