How to Develop Your Own Artistic Style Through Practice and Patience
Being Unique Helps to Develop Your Own Artistic Style
Being unique is the best way to stand out in a crowd. That’s especially true in the world of art. Whether you’re a painter, photographer, or musician, having your own artistic style is what sets you apart. I’ll never forget the first time someone told me that my photos were instantly recognizable. It was one of the most encouraging moments of my creative life—and it motivated me to think more intentionally about developing my own style. You too can develop your own artistic style in time.
At first, I had no idea how to go about it. But now, after years of practicing landscape photography, I’ve found a few insights that may help others on their journey.
Practice First, Style Will Follow
Although I’m sharing this from a photographer’s perspective, the same advice applies to any artist. In a world filled with amazing work and fast-paced inspiration from social media, it’s easy to feel like you’ll never measure up to your heroes. But here’s the truth: you don’t need to find your style all at once. Style is the result of repeated effort. It evolves through practice—just like playing an instrument, painting, or writing.
So, start with this: be willing to practice.
Love What You Do
You have to love your art—even if you’re not great at it yet. That love will keep you creating through the learning curves, mistakes, and moments of doubt. If you’re doing it purely for recognition or comparison, it’s easy to get discouraged. But when you’re doing it because you love it, the journey becomes the reward.
Mastery Is a Moving Target
Some people have called me a “master” of my craft. I appreciate that, but I don’t see myself that way. The more I learn, the more I realize I still have to learn. If you ever feel like you’ve fully mastered your art, you may stop growing. There’s always something new to discover, refine, or stretch. That’s the beauty of being an artist—you never really arrive.
Learn From Others, But Don’t Copy
In the beginning, it’s natural to admire and emulate another artist’s style. That’s a great way to learn—but it should only be the starting point. I’ve seen many photographers replicate a mentor’s style so closely that it’s hard to tell their work apart. While that’s a compliment to the mentor, it won’t help you develop your own voice.
Instead, learn from multiple artists. Blend techniques. Try new tools. Experiment without fear. I always tell my students: you won’t break anything by trying something different. If it doesn’t work, you don’t have to do it again. But if it does—you’ve added something new to your creative toolbox.
Be Patient With the Process
Developing your own artistic style takes time. Yes, some artists seem to pick things up faster than others—but there’s no prize for rushing. Impatience leads to frustration, and frustration leads to burnout.
Remember, you’re right where you’re supposed to be. Each stage teaches you something important. Learn that lesson, and you’ll move forward with more clarity, skill, and confidence.
Just Keep Practicing
If I had to sum it all up in one word, it would be this: practice.
Keep showing up. Keep creating. Keep pushing your boundaries. Over time, improvement is inevitable—and so is the emergence of your own artistic style. You won’t even need to force it. It will just happen, because it’s been growing in you all along.
Final Thoughts on how to Develop Your Own Artistic Style
There’s no formula for developing your artistic voice. But if you love what you do, continue to learn, and keep practicing with intention, your unique style will emerge—and it will reflect not only your skills, but your story.
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