The Double-Edged Sword for Artists
As a photographer and videographer, I’ve often found myself caught between two worlds: the desire to learn from the masters who came before me and the burning need to create something uniquely my own. This tension is at the heart of what it means to be an artist in a globally connected world. Influence is everywhere—it’s in the way we frame a shot, the colors we choose, the stories we tell. But what does it truly mean to be influenced? Who are our influencers? And is it good or bad to let them shape our work?
Let’s start with the basics. To be influenced is to be inspired, guided, or shaped by someone or something outside of ourselves. As artists, our influencers are often the greats who came before us—the photographers, filmmakers, and visual storytellers whose work resonates deeply with us. Think of legends like Ansel Adams, whose mastery of light and composition redefined landscape photography, or directors like Wes Anderson, whose symmetrical frames and pastel palettes have become instantly recognizable. These are the people we study, the ones we emulate when we’re just starting out.
And there’s nothing wrong with that. In fact, it’s necessary. When we’re learning, copying is a form of flattery and education. It’s how we develop technical skills, understand composition, and learn to see the world through a creative lens. But here’s the catch: influence is a double-edged sword. While it can elevate our craft, it can also trap us in the shadow of someone else’s vision if we’re not careful.
So, when do we stop copying and start creating? When do we step out of the shadow of our influencers and into the light of our own unique style?
The answer is different for everyone, but I believe it starts with self-awareness. As artists, we must constantly ask ourselves: *Am I creating this because it’s what I truly feel, or am I simply replicating what I’ve seen?* The moment you feel a spark of originality—a composition, a color grade, or a storytelling technique that feels distinctly *you*—that’s when you know it’s time to lean into your own voice.
Of course, this is easier said than done. One of the biggest challenges we face as artists is the fear of being unoriginal. In a world saturated with content, it’s easy to feel like everything has already been done. But here’s the truth: no one has your unique perspective, your experiences, or your creative instincts. Your art is a reflection of *you*, and that alone makes it original.
Another difficulty is the pressure to conform. Social media, algorithms, and trends can push us toward creating what’s popular rather than what’s authentic. It’s tempting to chase likes and follows by mimicking what’s already successful. But true artistry lies in breaking free from those constraints and creating work that resonates on a deeper level—work that is unmistakably yours.
So, is it good or bad to be influenced? The answer is both. Influence is a powerful tool for growth, but it’s also a potential crutch. The key is to use it wisely. Study the greats, learn from their techniques, and let their work inspire you. But don’t stop there. Take what you’ve learned and make it your own. Experiment, take risks, and trust your instincts.
As artists, our goal is not to escape influence but to transcend it. We want our photography and filmmaking to be recognizable not because they mimic someone else’s style, but because they carry the unmistakable stamp of our own creativity. That’s when influence becomes something beautiful—a stepping stone rather than a destination.
So, to all the photographers and videographers out there: embrace your influences, but don’t let them define you. Your unique voice is your greatest asset. Nurture it, refine it, and let it shine. The world doesn’t need another copycat—it needs *you*.
Keep creating, keep experimenting, and remember: the most powerful influence of all is the one that comes from within.
