What do you stand for?

Most people have a set of values in life. They set out our personal boundaries and dictate what we are happy to say or do, and what we are not happy to say or do. These values will also influence our photography. In simple terms, they will guide us on the sort of image we are happy to make and those that we deliberately decide not to make. 

However, many people don’t actually consider their photographic values enough. When you think deliberately about what you like doing in photography and why, it can help you set a clearer path ahead for your creative journey. That’s why I recently sat down and wrote my photographic manifesto.

What is a photographic manifesto and why should you have one?

A photographic manifesto is a set of values and beliefs that are the driving force behind your photography. It is personal to you. It reflects your personal values as well as what drives your photography.

Photographers who create a photographic manifesto will have had the best possible chance to reflect on their style of photography and what it means to them. They are more likely to make images in which they are emotionally invested. As a result, they are more likely to concentrate on work which means more to them. 

If a photographer just wants to take random pictures of scenes that please their eye, then a photographic manifesto may not be so important. However, if they are looking to work with projects, a photographic manifesto can be an essential part of their preparation. It can help them understand why they are creating this particular body of work.

Here’s my photographic manifesto

Low carbon footprint

I want to keep my photographic carbon footprint as low as possible. The biggest way I can do this is stay local. No flying off to take photographs.  And when I do travel, I’m going to try and use public transport as much as possible. There will be other aspects to my carbon footprint as well.

Stay local

This isn’t just a carbon footprint issue. So many people just don’t take the time to value what is around them. Their eyes are always on far-flung beauty spots. It is really worth taking the time to appreciate what is often a short walk from your home.

Stay mindful

I have been guilty of rushing in with my camera, ready to make images. I’m going to be making more time to consider a place or subject before I get my camera out. It will help me absorb the subject more, understand it better and give me alternative ideas and inspiration.

Micro photography

There is so much to photograph in the small things that are often overlooked. I love seeing the details, the textures and that which does not provoke and obvious image. This means spending time in a small area.

Emotional photography

What do my images say about me? This approach isn’t for everyone, but I find photography a great way of working through what is going on in my mind.

Photography with feedback

It is amazing what I do not see sometimes! My photography has really benefitted from feedback from people I trust in my network. And it has encouraged me to go in directions that that I hadn’t thought of.

Project-based photography

I am a firm believer that there is more to be said in making a collection of images rather than in a single picture. I also believe that I gain more from this process as a person and a photographer.

Multiple output photography

An image should be in more places than just a screen. A good project is worthy of:

• Prints on a wall

• A handmade book

• A video

• A zine

The beauty of this approach is that each output demands that you look at a project again and again

Chocolate fuelled photography

My images are so much better when I eat more chocolate! I just know it!

I’m going to write more about each aspect of my manifesto in the coming months. But you may want to get going with your photographic manifesto right now. 

Here are three steps to take if you want to create your own photographic manifesto

·      Write down a list of what is important to you in your photography. Don’t over-think it: just try some stream of consciousness writing. You may be surprised at what you come up with!

·      Think about what drives your photography. Do you have certain beliefs that drive your vision? Why do you like certain subjects or types of shot?

·      Ask others what they see in your photography. I found this incredibly valuable in helping shape my photography and my manifesto.

What is your photographic manifesto?

Have I inspired you to think more about what you stand for photographically? I’d love you to share your manifesto with me!