When finding your unique style, many people may think that it’s hidden in a set of presets or filters. But the style is much closer to home than you might realise. The question of style and how to find it is a common one, and understanding its true nature is crucial to making your work stand out.
Coming to you from Alex Kilbee with Photographic eye, this insightful video busts myths about finding your style. You won’t find it in presets or filters. Style is about discovering what makes your photos unique. By looking at your work as a whole, you can begin to see patterns and themes that are inherently yours. The process involves printing your photos and arranging them to view them as a whole, revealing consistent elements that you might not notice when viewing each photo individually.
Kilbee emphasizes the importance of looking at your work as a whole to find recurring elements. For example, he shares a story about noticing the consistent use of angular shapes in his photos, something he wasn’t aware of. This realization was only possible because he stopped looking for quick solutions and started paying attention to his natural tendencies. This method of self-discovery helps you understand what makes your photos unique and helps develop a style that stands out from the crowd.
To further develop your style, Kilbee recommends taking inspiration from photographers whose work resonates with you. See what elements of their work appeal to you and see how those elements can be incorporated into your own work. This doesn’t mean copying their style but rather getting pieces that fit your vision and enhance your natural style. The idea is to be a “magpie”, collecting what works for you and making it your own, thereby creating a style that is unmistakably yours.
If you don’t have room to print photos, view them in a digital gallery and share them with trusted friends. Watch the video above for the full rundown of Kilbee.
