How to Develop Your Photographic Style

What Does It Mean to Develop Your Photographic Style?

To develop your photographic style means creating a visual language that is uniquely yours. It’s not just about how a picture looks (lighting, colors, or composition) but also about what you show and why. Your style is a blend of form and content, consistently applied, making your work recognizable.

The Key to Developing Your Photographic Style: A Personal Approach

An authentic style grows from your personality and interests. To refine yours:

• Focus on your interests: Avoid following trends or chasing popularity.
• Infuse emotion and depth: Engage genuinely with your subjects to create meaningful images.
• Embrace your perspective: Think about what inspires you and reflect that in your work.

Steps to Develop Your Photographic Style

a) Photograph What Inspires You

Your style will naturally emerge as you explore subjects you love. Whether it’s portraits, landscapes, or abstract concepts, passion shines through.

b) Experiment With Techniques and Genres

Trying out different techniques and genres helps refine your preferences. Play with light, composition, and perspectives to discover what resonates most with you.

c) Focus on Consistency

Consistency is key when you develop your photographic style. Use repeating elements like:

• Color schemes (warm tones, muted shades, or bold contrasts),
• Lighting choices (natural or artificial light),
• Compositional techniques (minimalist or dynamic framing).

d) Create a Clear Visual Language

Work on one or two themes consistently. Over time, you’ll develop patterns that form your unique signature.

e) Use Repetition Strategically

Repetition helps establish your style but remain flexible. Your style should evolve as you grow.

Technical and Creative Tools to Support Your Style

a) Leverage Your Equipment

Your choice of camera, lenses, or even film types can shape your style. Select tools that align with your vision.

b) Make Post-Processing Part of Your Style

Editing is a critical part of developing your photographic style. Consistent editing choices – whether subtle adjustments or bold filters – reinforce your signature.

c) Consider Presentation and Context

Your style isn’t just in the images but also in how you present them. Whether you prefer prints, social media, or curated series, presentation amplifies your vision.

Exercises to Develop Your Photographic Style

• Create Mood Boards: Gather images that inspire you and identify common elements. These can guide your creative direction.
• Set Boundaries for Projects: Limit your focus to specific themes or techniques (e.g., black-and-white portraits or urban minimalism) to sharpen your style.
• Work in Series: A cohesive series allows you to dive deeper into themes and refine your visual identity.

Style Is a Journey, Not a Destination

a) Let Your Style Evolve

Your photographic style will change over time. New experiences and inspirations will shape your work.

b) Seek Constructive Feedback

Ask for feedback from fellow photographers or viewers to better understand how your work is perceived.

c) Be Patient

Developing your photographic style takes time and practice. Enjoy the process and let your style naturally emerge.

An example based on my own project Venice

I set myself a project here to work on my own style. I like Venice, but I don’t like typical tourist spots. Sounds paradoxical, I know. In this project, I aimed to showcase Venice from my own perspective, avoiding the usual postcard clichés.

Shot in RAW width my lovely old Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark ii and edited with the Lightroom-Preset TRIX-400 Pushed to ISO 1600.