The Search For Style: A Never Ending Process
I definitely think I’m a lifestyle photographer. What is lifestyle? I think it has multiple definitions for many artists. I think it’s imagery that MANY people can relate to. Whether it’s a portrait, a culture, location, or brand, my goal is to create pictures that people can connect with on a different level.
I think what we get influenced by in our youth is what builds that foundation for us stylistically. We’re all drawn to certain trends and influences, right? Take for example this shoot I did in Kailua. I did a test shoot with Kiani Yamamoto and Matty Wong. If you didn’t see it by now, I love Hawaii and everything about the culture! The people have a laid back, positive vibe about them, and you just can’t go wrong with the scenery. The best thing about test shoots is that you learn a lot about yourself as an artist. Most of the creative control is in your hands, so that’s where your journey of finding your style begins.
Like I said earlier, so much of it is about connection. For this shoot it was about showcasing the culture of Hawaii through 2 people and the beautiful scenery that Kailua brings. I love making the most simplest things come to life. It’s challenging, but once its captured, it’s so liberating for me. Every story is different. Sometimes your focus is the fashion and wardrobe. A lot of times it’s about the energy and interaction between people. Many times it’s about that culture or trend that you’re trying to portray. All these things factor into your own visual style and how you compose pictures. The little things definitely count.
Another huge part is telling a story through stills. Creating a storyboard of images where each picture is unique, but is even more dynamic collectively, is one of the sweetest things about the job. Stylistically, there are so many ways to tell stories. It’s pretty crazy how pictures can communicate with one another. So fun! I’m daydreaming now. Haha.
The fact of the matter is your style may change several times in your journey. Advice? Don’t get frustrated. If you fall, get up, and try again. Surround yourself with positive people, and with artists that make you feel like you’re not competing with them when you talk about art. The important thing is to make sure you have a style and to keep chasing the idea of it. If you don’t have one yet, that is totally fine! Finding yourself will be the most rewarding experience. In the meantime, don’t sit around. Go get inspired and find the right people to influence you.
