Often a photographer’s identity can be determined by simply viewing an image. Their personal style is so well-formed that each photograph they create is readily recognized as distinctly their own. Consider the example of Ansel Adams. His images are iconic and if you are not familiar with each photo he made you arguably would know one when you saw it.
So how does a beginner photographer develop their own photographic style?
The ability to create original photography on a consistent basis requires practice and skill. For those starting to learn photography I suggest two paths to follow on the way to establishing their own unique photographic style.
My first suggestion and something I urge photographers of all skill levels is to study the work of other photographers. An examination and understanding of the images created by others will help inform you own perspective. I am not suggesting that you mimic the style of others, rather use their work as inspiration and a source of insight about photographic content, technique and design.
In my over 30 year professional photography career I have constantly referred to the work of other photographers to expand my understanding and refine my personal point of view. Other photography provides reference points and a standard for comparison. Apply that reference material to your imagination and intellect to create the photography that illustrates your own unique viewpoint. As you develop your photographic skills learn how to deconstruct the images of others to find the techniques applied in their creation.
My second suggestion is to develop a comprehensive understanding of the camera and the photographic options that it provides. Understanding the physical controls and how incremental adjustment will affect your photograph is fundamental to achieving predictable results. Creative control of your photography begins with technical expertise. To make the photography that matches your vision you need to know how to control your camera.
Making correct exposure, understanding optical choices and focus control are fundamental photography skills. Once you establish mastery of technique you can then maintain creative control, you can actually begin to shoot and make consistent results.
Your own personal photographic style is a product of your imagination and how you process your experiences and impressions. Digital photography requires study and practice to be creatively consistent. That consistency of results builds the the foundation of style. Ansel Adams did not get accidental results; his beautiful photography was the product of exceptional technique and a highly personalized vision.
To learn more about digital photography and to learn more about this topic you should consider attending a photography workshop. I offer a full program of digital photography workshops and photography tours for adult photographers. On September 14, 2011 (7 to 9 pm) I am holding the PHOTO COMPOSITION and DESIGN workshop at the TEST of TIME PHOTO studio in Nashua, NH. Please consider attending this or any one of my many digital photo classes.
Dan Splaine _ Photographer
About the Author: Dan Splaine is a professional photographer and photo educator who operates a commercial photography business in Nashua, NH. He produces custom, unique images for businesses, institutions and individuals (regionally and nationally) with particular expertise in public relations and location photography. In his thirty plus years photo career he has photographed in dozens of countries and location ranging from rain forests to the halls of congress. He teaches photography workshops at his New Hampshire studio and conducts photography tours in New England and internationally.
