5 Tips to Help You Find Your Own Photography Style

In a world full of stunning bird photos, it’s easy to fall into the trap of trying to replicate what everyone else is doing. But if you're an intermediate bird photographer, now’s the perfect time to start defining your own style—a unique way of seeing and capturing the wild that reflects you.

Developing a personal style doesn’t mean ignoring the rules or never taking inspiration from others; it means using your skills to tell stories only you can tell.

Finding your own photographic style isn’t about mimicking trends - it’s about discovering what genuinely resonates with you. Creating images that feel meaningful and unmistakably yours.

Nor is it about chasing down exotic species and locations - that's great if you have the means! Most of us have families, work and other commitments that gobble up our time and resources - and photography has to fit in. Work with what you have and what is accessible to you, even if it's ducks on a pond at your local park.

From reviewing your favourite shots and setting creative limitations, to balancing inspiration with intuition, these strategies are designed to guide you toward a more authentic and confident photographic identity. Whether you're feeling stuck or simply ready to evolve, this post will help you connect more deeply with your creative vision.

Here are 5 tips to help you find your own photography style:

1. Shoot a Lot—Then Review

Take photos regularly and review your work often. Look for patterns in what you’re drawn to - colours, lighting, subjects, or compositions. Your style often reveals itself through repetition.

2. Create a Collection

Make a folder of your favourite images - ones that feel most you. Ask yourself what you love about them. Is there a common thread you can further develop into a body of work? Create a visual compass for the kind of work you want to do more of.

3. Limit Your Gear or Settings

Put creative constraints on yourself (like using one lens or shooting in black and white for a month). Constraints push you to explore depth over variety and help refine your visual voice.

4. Get Inspired—Then Disconnect

Study photographers you admire, but then step away. Instead of copying, ask: What are the elements that appeal to me? What feeling does this give me?  Use that emotion as inspiration to refine your own work.

5. Trust Your Creative Mind Over Trends

Trends fade - your style sticks when it’s true to you. If something feels off or forced, it probably is. Your instinct is one of your best tools - honour it. Experiment. Iterate. Develop.

Time invested in your passion is the greatest teacher. If you're not there yet and still finding your way with technical aspects, remember that it's not a destination, but a constant visual evolution.

Who knows where it will take you? Enjoy the process and trust that your style will emerge!