Finding your photography style is one of the most important (and potentially frustrating) parts of photography. At first, you may shoot like other photographers. You may follow other photographers on Instagram and try to emulate their work. But eventually, you need to develop your own photography style. But how? Here are 7 tips on how to find your photography style.
1. Experiment with different genres of photography
At the very beginning, don’t specialise. Shoot everything! Portrait photography Street photography Landscape photography Still-life or food photography Different genres will teach you different things and you will have a better idea of what you like.
2. Look at other photographer’s work for inspiration
I firmly believe that imitation is the best form of flattery. When you look at another photographer’s work, ask yourself: What do you like about it? Are you drawn to the colours? The light? The atmosphere? The composition? Just because you like another photographer’s work does not mean that you should copy them, but you can learn from them.
3. Look at your work as a whole
What are you more naturally drawn to? Light and airy images? Dark and moody images? Clean and simple compositions? Cluttered and busy compositions? If you can identify what you like to shoot, you will be closer to identifying your photography style.
4. Edit consistently
When it comes to identifying your photography style, editing is a big part of it. Try to keep to a similar set of tones. Similar contrast. Similar exposure. Do not keep changing your editing style as it will be harder to define your photography style. If someone can identify your photos without seeing your name, that is when you know you have an established photography style.
5. Have an intention behind your photography
Your photography style is not just about the look of your photos. It is about what they evoke and what they mean. What do you want to say with your photography? What do you want people to feel when they look at your photos?
6. Shoot frequently and regularly
Take time every few weeks or months to look back at your photography. You will start to see themes emerging: Similar colours Similar subject matter Similar compositions These themes will form the basis of your photography style.
7. Allow your photography style to develop over time
Finally, your photography style will not develop overnight. It will take time, and it will evolve. Do not get frustrated if you do not have an established style straight away. Just keep practicing and your style will emerge over time.
Conclusion
Your photography style is a combination of how you see the world, your experiences and your creative decisions. It is what makes your photography yours. The more you practice, the more you experiment and the more you learn the more your style will develop.