Break the rules
Break the rules
The Art of Finding Your Photographic Vision
When we start learning photography, we’re introduced to a set of rules: the rule of thirds, perfect focus, balanced exposure. These guidelines are essential, yes, but what happens when they start to confine rather than inspire?
The real magic of photography happens when you dare to break the rules—when you decide that your vision is more important than any predefined standard. That’s the moment you move from following a manual to telling stories that are uniquely yours.
Why Break the Rules?
Rules are guides, not chains. They’re a starting point, but they don’t define your destination. Breaking them means exploring, experimenting, and discovering what you truly want to express.
Some of the most iconic photographs in history ignored conventions entirely. Think of Henri Cartier-Bresson’s off-center frames or the blown-out highlights in Nan Goldin’s images. These photos don’t follow the rules, but they capture raw, unfiltered emotion.
How to Start Breaking the Rules
- Learn the rules first
Before you break them, understand them. Knowing how to use light, compose an image, or balance colors gives you the foundation to challenge those norms intentionally.
- Change your perspective
Get too close, step too far back, shoot from unexpected angles. Look for the perspective others overlook.
- Play with light
Embrace harsh shadows, overexposure, or extreme backlighting. Experiment with what’s often considered a “technical mistake.”
- Break symmetry
Perfection can be boring. Let chaos into your compositions; a touch of disorder can make your photo far more engaging.
- Let emotions guide your camera
Instead of focusing on how the image will look, ask yourself what you want it to feel like. Let emotions take the lead, even if it means ignoring all the rules.
Finding Your Style in Chaos
Breaking the rules isn’t about disregarding them aimlessly; it’s about finding your voice. Every “mistake” can become an opportunity to discover something unique. That’s how photography evolves from a technical exercise into a true expression of who you are.
So grab your camera, head out, and dare to break the rules. In the chaos, the imperfections, and the “errors,” you’ll find the magic that makes your work truly your own.
Are you ready to try?