Why Your Style Matters More Than Ever as a Fashion Photographer
Why Style as a Fashion Photographer Matters More Than Ever Before
In today’s oversaturated visual world, standing out as a fashion photographer has never been more challenging—or more important. We’re constantly bombarded with images and content from all directions, whether we’re scrolling through social media, flipping through magazines, or watching videos. The sheer volume of visuals we see daily is overwhelming, and it's only going to keep increasing. So how do you rise above the noise and make your mark in this crowded industry? The answer lies in your style.
The Importance of Developing a Unique Style
Now more than ever, individual style is key to distinguishing yourself from the countless photographers vying for attention. In a world where everyone is creating and sharing visuals, your style is what sets you apart from the competition. It’s what will get you hired, bring in clients, and ultimately fuel your career.
But what exactly makes a photographer’s style so vital? Simply put, it’s your unique artistic fingerprint. Your distinct approach to photography is what makes your work unmistakable and valuable to clients. When you have a strong, unique style, clients not only recognize your work but also see how your vision can transform their brand. They want you because you can do what no one else can.
Why Clients Seek Unique Styles
Clients today are looking for more than just technical skill—they want a photographer who brings something special to the table. They want someone who has a unique voice and can create something unexpected. If you can show them something they haven’t seen before, something that challenges the norm, they’ll want you to bring that same fresh perspective to their project.
The reality is that unless you showcase a style that is distinctly yours, clients may not even know you’re the right fit for their needs. Your job is to show them what you can do and how your style can elevate their work. A strong portfolio is essential to demonstrate your skills and what makes you unique. But remember, your style isn’t just about capturing pretty pictures—it’s about telling a story, evoking emotion, and creating an experience through your lens.
Avoid the Jack-of-All-Trades Trap
In the early stages of a photography career, many photographers make the mistake of trying to please everyone. They think they need to shoot every type of photography, for every kind of client, in every possible style. This approach may seem like a good way to cast a wide net, but it often leads to a diluted portfolio that lacks a clear, defining voice.
There’s an old saying, “Jack of all trades, master of none,” and it holds true in the world of photography. While it’s valuable to have a broad skill set, you need to specialize in something to truly stand out. Imagine if you broke a leg—you wouldn’t go to your general practitioner for treatment. You’d go to an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in fixing legs because you trust their expertise. The same concept applies to photography. If you specialize in one niche and master it, clients will come to you because they know you’re the expert in that area.
Building a Strong, Unique Portfolio
Building a portfolio that highlights your style is crucial to your success. But it can be difficult to find that unique voice, especially if you’re just starting out or feeling creatively stuck. That’s why I highly recommend taking the time to discover what truly inspires you and what makes you unique. This process can feel daunting, but trust me—it’s worth it. When you embrace what makes you different, you’ll find that clients will start to take notice.
If you’re struggling to pinpoint your style, there’s a simple and effective way to get started. I created an online course called Find Your Style, which is designed to help photographers like you discover what makes their work stand out. This course is full of thought-provoking questions that help you dig deep and uncover the unique elements you already possess. The best part? Everything you need to build a portfolio that reflects your individuality is already within you—you just need some guidance to bring it out.
Additional Tips for Developing Your Style
In addition to taking courses like Find Your Style, there are other methods to help you define your creative voice:
Keep a Sketchbook or Digital Inspiration Board
Inspiration can strike from anywhere, so it’s important to collect it when it comes. Whether you keep a physical sketchbook or use a digital tool like Pinterest, gather images, quotes, and ideas that resonate with you. As you collect, you’ll begin to notice patterns in what excites you. These patterns can give you valuable insight into what inspires you and can influence your photographic work.Look Beyond Photography
Inspiration doesn’t just come from other photographers. Look to the world around you for ideas. Watch films, listen to music, visit art exhibitions, read books, or even just take a walk in nature. Engage with the world outside of the photography industry—it will spark your creativity and help you see the world through a fresh lens. The most innovative photographers don’t just rely on what’s happening in the industry; they pull ideas from every aspect of life.Take Breaks from Social Media
Constantly scrolling through social media can lead to comparison and creative burnout. If you find yourself getting lost in other people's work, it’s time for a break. I personally recommend taking time away from social media to focus on your own creativity. Use this time to reflect, create, and recharge without the pressure of constantly seeing what others are doing. Sometimes, stepping away from the noise can help you rediscover your own voice.
The Foundation of Style: A Key to Success
Ultimately, style is the foundation of everything you do as a photographer. Without a clear understanding of your unique style, your career will lack direction and authenticity. Once you’ve identified your style and built a portfolio that showcases it, your career will take off. Clients will flock to you because they know exactly what to expect—something they can’t get anywhere else.
So, take the time to nurture your creative voice, trust the process, and watch your career soar. Style isn’t just a luxury—it’s the key to your success as a photographer.
