• by Tony Silber , December 16, 2021

Recurrent Ventures is relaunching the iconic Popular Photography as a digital-first publication, with the goal of connecting with a new generation of photographers, professionals and amateurs alike.

PopPhoto has resumed a daily content schedule on its site and regular posts on Facebook and Instagram.

The 84-year-old title closed as a print magazine in 2017. It had long been the gold standard for photo enthusiasts and pros as they seek inspiration and learn new techniques and assess the latest gear.

“The brand’s renewed editorial mission will empower photographers of every skill level and discipline to make great images,” Recurrent stated.

With the relaunch comes the introduction of a new editorial team and an updated design. Regular coverage includes smartphone photography and social media, how-tos for all skill levels, cultural commentary and reviews of new and used cameras and gear—all with an eye towards accessibility and affordability.

The relaunch also coincides with the revival of the brand’s signature end-of-year awards, The POP Awards, which highlight the biggest photography breakthroughs of the year.

Content production will be overseen by Corinne Iozzio, who is also editor-in-chief of Popular Science. Dan Bracaglia, a veteran photographer, writer and PopPhoto alum, recently joined Recurrent as the brand’s news and features editor. He will team up with the writer, editor and professional photographer Stan Horaczek, who will split his time between PopPhoto and Popular Science as senior gear editor.

The trio will oversee a diverse portfolio of contributors and photographers, including writers dedicated to demystifying modern photographic tech, analyzing the analog revival, and exploring how identity plays a crucial role in how photographers see and capture the world.

“All three of us have worked at or alongside PopPhoto in the past, which is one of the many reasons we’re all so passionate about reviving the brand,” Bracaglia said. “We want PopPhoto to be a reliable resource and go-to digital destination for any photography enthusiast looking to get the most out of their camera, whether they’re preparing for a professional shoot or simply looking to maximize what they get out of their smartphone.”

Added Horaczek: “We’re stoked for PopPhoto’s next chapter. Photography has evolved so much during [the magazine’s] hiatus and there is still a ton of enthusiasm to learn about it. I’m confident this renewed approach speaks to the brand’s legacy but also expands its mission to introduce it to a bunch of new readers.”

PopPhoto rejoins the science, outdoors and tech brands Popular Science, Field & Stream, Outdoor Life, and Futurism in Recurrent’s digital-media portfolio.

Recurrent is a fast-growing digital media company that also owns Domino, MEL, Saveur and Task & Purpose among 20 brands. It was initially founded in late 2018 with the acquisition of The Drive. It’s backed by the private-equity firm North Equity LLC.