Dreams Start With Patience Newsletter #3

Good Morning! This week I began to think about how photographic work requires embracing your individuality.

I constantly ask myself, “Do my photos leave an impression on the viewer?”

It has taken sometime for me to reach a new stage of my creative journey.

Anything is truly possible if you delay gratification and stick to one skill to master


Here are 7 steps to level up your personal style in photography

1. Explore and experiment

There is no one-size-fits-all solution in photography. The more you explore different genres, techniques, and equipment, the more you will discover your preferences and strengths. Don't be afraid to experiment with various approaches, even if they seem unorthodox or unconventional. Every new experience will bring you closer to understanding what resonates with you and forms the basis of your personal style.

2. Analyze your favorite photographers' work

I tell this to every new photographer I meet with - study vigorously 
In my mentorship I give away my technical approach to analyzing photographic work.

I provide a free Notion template with my mentorship, a masterclass of everything a photographer may need to keep track of.

Studying the work of photographers you admire can provide valuable insights into what makes their style distinctive. Pay attention to their compositions, color palettes, subjects, and post-processing techniques. While you should never copy their work, you can use these insights to inspire and inform your style.

3. Develop a consistent workflow

Having a consistent workflow, from shooting to post-processing, can help you create a cohesive body of work that showcases your personal style. This doesn't mean you can't experiment, but having a set process will allow you to focus on the creative aspects of your photography while ensuring your work remains consistent.

4. Seek feedback and critique

Receiving constructive criticism from fellow photographers, friends, and mentors can be incredibly valuable in shaping your personal style. They can provide new perspectives and help you identify areas for improvement. Be open to feedback and use it to refine your vision and approach.

5. Embrace your individuality

Your personal experiences, emotions, and beliefs can greatly influence your photographic style. Embrace your individuality and use it to create unique and meaningful images. Draw inspiration from your background, memories, and emotions, and incorporate them into your work to create a truly authentic style.

6. Evolve and adapt

Developing a personal style is not a one-time achievement but an ongoing process. As you grow as a photographer, your interests, skills, and tastes will naturally change. Embrace this evolution and allow your personal style to adapt and grow with you.

7. Reflect and refine

Regularly assess your work to identify patterns, strengths, and weaknesses. Take note of elements that consistently appear in your work and those that seem to be missing. This self-reflection will help you recognize the key components of your personal style and make informed decisions about how to refine and develop it further.

Conclusion

Developing a personal style in photography is a journey that requires patience, persistence, and self-discovery. By exploring different approaches, learning from others, and staying true to your individuality, you can create a unique and recognizable body of work. Remember that your personal style will evolve over time, so be open to change and continue to grow as a photographer.