Street photography is an ever-evolving field with countless enthusiasts around the world. With so many styles and techniques available, finding a unique approach can be a challenge.
Coming to you from Tim JamiesonThis insightful video delves into the importance of having a unique style in street photography and provides simple steps to help you develop one. Jamieson emphasizes that what you consume will shape your output. By exploring a wide range of street photography, reading books, and watching documentaries, you can gather a variety of influences to build your style. Conversely, limiting yourself to a few photographers’ work can stifle your creative growth.
Jamieson emphasizes the importance of understanding the history of street photography to determine where you stand. He compares it to the early impressionists, who, despite their similar styles, created unique and beautiful work. The art world thrives on shared inspiration, and street photography is no exception. While blatant copying is frowned upon, experimenting with different ideas from other photographers can help you find your own voice. Books on street photography like “Take Back the Streets” And “Magnum Street Smart” is intended to inspire and educate about the rich history of the genre.
The video then moves on to discussing gear, focusing on how your choice of focal length affects your style. Most street photographers prefer fixed focal length lenses, with 35mm is a popular choice because it closely resembles the field of view of the human eye. Jamieson’s favorite is 35mm, which he uses for the majority of his work. However, he notes that experimenting with different focal lengths, such as 50mm for a balanced look or 28mm for a wider frame, it can help you find what works best for you. Consistency in gear use can lead to a more cohesive style.
Editing plays a big part in defining your style. Jamieson admits to struggling with sticking to a post-production style as preferences change. He suggests starting with in-camera simulations or presets from admired photographers, but stresses the importance of eventually developing your own editing style. Mastering your chosen editing software and seeking feedback can help refine your approach. For film photographers, choosing a film type and adjusting scans is part of the creative process.
One important aspect that is often overlooked is subject matter. Jamieson emphasizes that what you choose to photograph greatly influences your style. He encourages self-reflection on what you want to convey through your photography. Your unique perspective, shaped by your personal experiences and background, will add depth to your work. Experimenting with different subjects, especially within your community, can help you find your voice. He cautions against chasing social media fame, instead advocating for photographing things that you care about.
Jamieson also discusses the benefits of projects for developing and experimenting with styles. Projects provide a structured way to explore different styles without clashing with your current work. Whether through a website or social media, organizing your work into projects can provide clarity and direction. Long-term projects, in particular, can reveal your evolving style and preferences over time. Check out the video above for Jamieson’s full summary.
