As 2025 unfolds, the rise of AI-generated imagery feels almost unstoppable—apps and algorithms churn out flawless visuals at an unbelievable pace. Yet in this rush toward the synthetic, analog photography remains a vivid reminder of what’s genuine, tactile, and truly human. It’s the gritty authenticity of a negative, the patient wait for a perfect exposure, and the little imperfections that make each shot stand out.

That’s what makes Analog Forever Magazine’s Top 40 images of 2024 so exhilarating. Each photograph represents a moment of genuine human insight, a reminder that artistry is as much about the process as it is the final result. If AI is the brilliant mind, then analog photography is the beating heart.

Spend some time taking in each image. Head over to the artists’ pages to learn about their process and inspiration. If one resonates, leave a comment or shoot them a message on their socials—it’s that community spirit that keeps our analog flame burning bright. Together, let’s celebrate the timeless magic of film—and the very real human touch that makes every single frame so captivating.

Michael Behlen’s Top 10

Every year, narrowing down my top selections feels like an impossible feat, yet these images practically demanded my attention from the moment I first encountered them. From the quiet reverence of a glowing cross-cutting through winter’s gloom to the playful nostalgia of a LIFE magazine cover shielding a subject’s face, each photograph here speaks volumes about the timeless allure of analog photography. As someone who’s sifted through thousands of submissions and personal projects this year, I keep coming back to these for a jolt of inspiration. Their impact is immediate, their artistry undeniable, and they capture the heart of why we dedicate ourselves to this medium.

Michael Kirchoff’s Top 10

Waitaminute…2024 has ended already?! Can someone please slow this train down a bit? I’m just not ready to move into another year. That said, in looking back on this whirlwind year, it was a relatively simple matter to find ten images that wormed their way into my tired brain. There was no shortage of reviews or curation happening over the days, weeks, and months, so I present to you the ten that came at me again first. They do not represent “the best,” only the ones that I could recall immediately–and for that, they get some love from me. It takes a personal image this time around to strike that cord, and these are the photographs that made the cut this year. They provide exactly ten avenues for you to traverse with the hope that they provide insight and inspiration as you further your own goals. Do not take any of these frivolously, as there is an inner light to each, hopefully, one that sparks something inside of you as well.

Niniane Kelley’s Top 10

Today I'm contemplating community and about everyone who keeps us pushing forward. I'm thankful for the photo community I've found, near and far, and the friendships it's forged. It's the people who greet you with a smile and a hug, who celebrate successes and commiserate over setbacks. Collectively, we share our experiences, learn from each other, inspire each other, support each other. A passion for photography is what brought us together, but it's this found family that keeps us resilient.

Finally, and at risk of being yelled at over text message, I want to give some love to the guy we wouldn't be in this crazy AF family without, Michael Behlen. It's his passion for this medium and this community that's gathered us here now, and he makes some damn fine images, to boot. Thank you, MB.

Lisa Toboz’s Top 10

At the beginning of each year, I create an Instagram folder titled “[Year] Favorites.” The months roll along; I save and comment, “like” and share. I periodically refer to these photos for inspiration. I examine them, noticing details I didn’t see before. I envy their otherworldliness. I marvel at their vision. As the year winds to a close, the archived saves are narrowed down to 10 images that carried me through the seasons, political strife, global upheaval, and grief, amid months peppered with lucky days. When artists share their work, they are showing us what is inside their lives, minds, and hearts. I am grateful for these gifts, needing them now more than ever in this complicated, beautiful life.

ABOUT ANALOG FOREVER MAGAZINE

Founded in 2018, Analog Forever Magazine is an online and print publisher of contemporary analog photography. Our mission is simple: we want to provide a global audience to photographers who use analog processes and techniques for their photographic work by giving them a voice via a biannual print photography journal, online features and interviews, book reviews, and online exhibitions. Our goal is to highlight the best of the best from the analog photography industry including artists, projects, galleries, and curators.

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