Should you “lie” in your photos to make them stand out?

If your photos don’t “lie,” they’re not good enough. Tom Marsh of Yorkshire Photo Walks has recently noticed this unsettling trend in photography, pushing you towards not only overediting your images but also overusing AI and doing anything to blend in. In his latest video, he shares a thoughtful five-step process to help your photos stand out while helping you stay authentic and faithful to your artistic vision.

1. Set your boundaries

When it comes to editing, Tom encourages you to set “red lines”—boundaries you won’t cross. Maybe you’re okay with removing distractions or enhancing colors but draw the line at swapping skies or heavily manipulating the scene. Establishing these boundaries early in your photography journey helps you stay honest and grounded, even as trends push for exaggerated effects.

2. Define your intent

Before pressing the shutter, ask yourself: What do you want your photo to convey? Intent gives your work focus, helping you make better decisions in the field and during editing. Whether you aim to tell a story, evoke a mood, or highlight a subject, keeping your intent in mind ensures your photos reflect your vision and feel uniquely yours.

3. Know your audience

Who are your photos for? Tom explains that understanding your audience transforms how you approach photography. Whether you’re creating for competitions, home decor, or social media, tailoring your images to the right people helps you connect with them more meaningfully. Thinking of your audience while composing or editing can lead to photos that resonate deeply and stand out.

4. Rethink where and how you share

Social media is a popular way to share photos, but Tom notes it often prioritizes quick, attention-grabbing images over those that invite deeper appreciation. This ultimately leads to all photos resembling each other. If you want your work to stand out, consider alternatives. For example, build a portfolio website, print a photo book, or showcase your images in galleries. By choosing platforms that align with your goals, you’ll find the right audience who values your art.

5. Trust your perspective

Amid countless photography rules and trends, Tom believes your perspective is your superpower. Instead of chasing fads or imitating others, focus on what you genuinely see and feel. While it’s essential to understand the rules of photography, don’t be afraid to break them when your instincts guide you toward something different.

Staying true to your vision can be challenging, especially since nowadays we are exposed to more influence than ever before. But even in a world driven by instant gratification, your authenticity is what truly makes your photos stand out.

[If your photos don’t lie, they’re not good enough. | Yorkshire Photo Walks]

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