SOME THOUGHTS ABOUT 'STYLE' – MINE AND YOURS…

What do we mean when we talk about 'Style'?

Is Style 'that' which simply differentiates the work of one photographer from another? Is it a result? A way that we the viewer can describe the difference between photographs, say, of similar subject matter made by different photographers? Or, is it an approach to making images? For example, does every photographer have a mantra (conscious or subconscious) that guides their work, that causes it to be different from others? In First Light, Joe Cornish talks about the importance of TLC (Timing, Lighting and Composition). If any of the three are absent, he won't press the shutter release. When we recognise one of his images, are we seeing the coming together of T, L and C, or is there something 'other' which is present? If so, what and how might we describe it?

I like what Weston wrote about a picture he made of Tina Modotti: "… a tear rolled down her cheek – and then I captured the moment – let me see f8 1/10 sec K1 filter – panchromatic film – how brutally mechanical and calculated it sounds – yet really how spontaneous and genuine – for I have so overcome the mechanics of my camera that it functions responsive to my desires – my shutter co-ordinating with my brain is released in a way – as natural as I might move my arm – I am beginning to approach an actual attainment in photography… The moment of our mutual moment was recorded on the silver film."

In my search for a greater understanding of Style, I've delved into any number of books – photographic, artistic and beyond. In 'Writers on Howard Hodgkin' I found a quote that might answer the above question about Joe's photography. It is by Edouard Vuillard (the French Post-Impressionist painter): "There is no art without poetic aim."

What do you think about Style? Please include your thoughts on the matter with your entry forms. Your comments, ideas and questions will help shape DV&S into an inspiring and thought-provoking book.