Guillaume de B Offline Upload & Sell: Off
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Hi Heiko,
I don't think most posters so far have understood your question. You aren't looking to copy anyone yet most replies seem to focus on telling you not to do this.
It's certainly true that your style will change over time, both because you get better at achieving a certain look and also because your aesthetic tastes change.
I think what you are asking is: 'How do you decide that a certain look is the right way for you to go with your photography when you like more than one approach?'. Liking classic B&W documentary work, and working towards that doesn't mean you're copying anyone, but you want to know why people choose that approach rather than another. Chuck Anerino for example said that he wanted his family images to have more meaning which I think this style suits (atmosphere/observation etc) and so you can see why he has gone with this style. Tony Hoffer has a very different and more commercial look to his images, if you also like this style how do you decide what to practise and show as your portfolio rather than send out a diluted brand image by displaying both styles?
I guess it's similar to a young musician, loving both jazz and rock, knowing that to make an impact he needs to define his image by pursuing one over the other.
I had the same thoughts as you a while back and decided to shoot in the style that I would most like my wedding to be photographed in. I don't feel I'm at the level as the best photographers who shoot in that particular style, but it's great to have something to aim towards. I personally love Erik Clausen and Otto Schulze's work and would like to shoot at their level one day.
Don't be afraid to look at other's work and strive to achieve what they do. From the Beatles to Cartier-Bresson, there is not an artist out there who hasn't been influenced by other artists.
Good luck,
Gui
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