In my first post of this series I talked about comparison. And today I’m going to talk about the second thing I’d tell myself – Explore Your Style.

#2) Explore Your Style.

Your style won’t come overnight. It’s going to take time and that’s okay. You’re a dynamic person and inspired by many things but stay aware and conscience of what you love.

Don’t allow #1 (Comparison) to influence your style. Trends are trends. Don’t feel pressured to follow suit because a creative you love implements a trend. You don’t have to! Be true to you! People will love your work because it’s “your” work not a copy of someone. That will draw others to you too.

But you’re asking right now, “How will I know what my style is?” Great question! What makes you…you? You’re style is all around you. In your home, in your clothing, etc. It’s easy to ignore and many times the people you spend the most time with will be able to identify it before you. Seriously. For example, I was shopping with my sister-in-law at H&M. I had picked up a bright floral top with the words “FALL IN LOVE” on the front. Before I even had a chance to say anything she says, “Oh that’s so you!” I smiled because she was right, it was! So ask others how they’d describe your style. At the end of the day, as you learn and grow your style will evolve and that’s okay – just be true to you!

And allow yourself to change. Change is good. It keeps up challenged and current. If you could see the changes my brand as went through over the years. It happens to everyone and that’s part of the process. Embrace it. Learn from it.

If anything, just remember to not be afraid of being you. There are items or things in my life that I LOVE. Like this fun pair of oxfords that I scored at Target for $7. The hubs thinks they’re hideous but that’s not his style it’s mine. And I adore them. And he adores me so ultimately he understands and appreciates my style.

I think what attracts us to others – genuineness. Be genuine and you’ll come into your photographic style, you’ll identify with your brand and you’ll fall in love with the process.

Here are the links to the various posts in the 5 Things I’d Tell My Past Self series:

#1. Comparison
#2. Explore Your Style
#3. Coming Soon
#4. Coming Soon
#5. Coming Soon

love & pixels,
ashley nicole