What if all your friends went to the mall and bought an outfit that they absolutely loved.  They were then hung up next to each other for you to see. Would you be able to decide which one belonged to whom? My guess is that you can. It’s called style. Even though teens often dress very similar to each other, they each still have their own unique style within the popular styles.

It’s the same with photographers. If you were very familiar with each photographer’s work in your town, in a line up, you’d probably be able to tell who took which picture. There are broad areas of popular style.  Some are discussed below.  Just like teens, photographers will have their own style within these broad areas. You will want to study the work of photographers you are considering and decide if you like their style.

Traditional

Recognize that hairstyle?
Yep that’s me again. Traditional photography involves more formal, posed images. They are often shot in a studio under lights with a simple background such as the one of my son below.

Outside shots can also be considered traditional if they appear
more posed than natural.

Casual

This style is informal. Though the images may be posed they give the appearance of not being posed. (or at least they try not to)

Model Like

A popular style is to create the look of a magazine model. Often you will be able to pay to have a hairstyle and make-up artist to help you prepare for this type of image.

Urban

Though this may seem more like a setting rather than a style, the available architecture in an urban area seems to create a unique look that can not be achieved in a studio or park like setting.

Creative

This is a very broad style that is difficult to put into words. But I think that you’ll recognize it when you see it.

Journalistic

Journalistic photos tell a story. They are often not posed. While one image can tell quite a story, this style often involves a series of photos. Props can be added to help tell the story.

Black & White

There are some photographers who create ONLY Black and White photos.  Many will create some images as Black and White because of the mood they are trying to convey in that particular image.  Some people love Black and White.  Some don’t like it at all.