Photography is as much about personal expression as it is about capturing the world through a lens. For many, finding their unique style is not an overnight revelation but rather a process of exploration and discovery. Like me, you might be in the phase of photographing everything—a sunset one day, a street scene the next, or perhaps the abstract interplay of light and shadow on a wall. If this sounds familiar, take heart: this is where all great journeys begin.
(I took this January 2025.)
A photographic style is your signature—the consistent thread that connects your work and makes it uniquely yours. It’s what makes someone look at a photo and immediately know it’s yours. Developing a style allows you to stand out, express your vision, and form a deeper connection with your audience. However, it’s not something you can force; style emerges organically as you grow as a photographer.
In the beginning, it’s perfectly normal to photograph anything and everything. This phase is not just about practicing your technical skills but also about discovering what truly excites you. The articles I recently read by Alan Ranger and Robert Schall emphasized the importance of this exploratory stage. Both highlight that finding your style starts with casting a wide net and taking the time to analyse what resonates with you most.
For me, this means experimenting with different genres, from landscapes and portraits to street photography and abstract compositions. Each offers its own set of challenges and rewards, and each teaches you something new about yourself and your creative preferences. Don’t shy away from subjects or techniques that feel unfamiliar or difficult. The more you experiment, the more you’ll uncover about what inspires you.
(I took this January 2025.)
I’ve always been drawn to street photography. When I was at school, I took a Scotvec module in photography and discovered Bruce Davidson and his iconic series Subway. His gritty, evocative images of New York City’s underground captivated me.
(Bruce Davidson photogropher.)
I got myself a book on the series and must have read through it a thousand times, studying every detail. Those photographs weren’t just pictures—they were stories, moments frozen in time that spoke to me. Now, years later, I’m planning to get the same book again to relive that inspiration.
(USA. New York City. 1980. Subway. Bruce Davidson.)
Lately, I’ve also found myself fascinated by the works of Man Ray and László Moholy-Nagy. Man Ray’s groundbreaking experiments with photograms and surrealism pushed the boundaries of what photography could be, turning everyday objects into abstract masterpieces. László Moholy-Nagy, a key figure in the Bauhaus movement, blended art and technology to create innovative compositions that still feel ahead of their time. Their work inspires me to think beyond the conventional and explore the artistic possibilities of light, shadow, and form.
(László Moholy-Nagy at Fotografiska Stockholm.)
As you accumulate photos, take time to reflect on your body of work. Look for patterns: recurring subjects, themes, colours, or compositions that keep appearing. These patterns are clues to your emerging style.
(Man Ray image.)
(Man Ray image.)
Are you drawn to moody black-and-white imagery, or do you prefer vibrant, colourful scenes? Do you gravitate toward symmetry and order, or do you embrace chaos and spontaneity?
For example, I’ve noticed that I often focus on quiet, introspective moments in my images. While I haven’t fully defined my style yet, this recurring theme gives me a starting point to build upon.
(I took this January 2025.)
One of the best ways to find your style is by studying the work of other photographers. Analyse what you admire about their images and consider how you can incorporate similar elements into your own work without directly copying. Alan Ranger’s advice to take inspiration from others while ensuring your voice remains authentic has been invaluable. Robert Schall’s emphasis on cultivating a style that reflects your personality also resonates deeply.
At the same time, don’t get too caught up in trends or comparisons. Photography is a deeply personal art form, and your style should reflect who you are, not what’s popular.
Once you have a sense of what draws you in, start shooting with more intention. Set small, specific goals for each shoot. For instance, you might focus on capturing a particular mood or experimenting with a single compositional technique. This intentionality will help you refine your style over time.
(I took this January 2025.)
Above all, remember that finding your photography style is a journey, not a destination. It’s okay to feel like you don’t have it all figured out yet—I certainly don’t. Your style will evolve as you continue to grow, both as a photographer and as a person.
Finding your photography style is about exploration, reflection, and staying true to your passions. Embrace the process, be patient with yourself, and enjoy the journey. Every photo you take brings you one step closer to discovering your unique voice. For now, I’m content to keep exploring and learning, knowing that my style will reveal itself in time. And when it does, it will be as much about the journey as the destination.
Do you have a style? How did you “find” it and how do you feel about photogrophers finding their own style and vibe?
Regards
Alex