The Occasional Photographer vs The Conceptual Photographer
Photography is a hobby open to everyone, from those who simply enjoy capturing memories to those who approach it as a deeper, creative pursuit. Within our club, we often see a wide spectrum—but broadly speaking, photographers tend to fall somewhere between two ends of a continuum: the occasional photographer and the conceptual photographer.
The Occasional Photographer
The occasional photographer is exactly that—someone who picks up their camera or phone when the moment arises. A beautiful sunset, a family gathering, a walk in the woods. Their images are often spontaneous, reactive, and personal. There’s usually no plan, and often little post-processing. What matters most is preserving a moment, not necessarily interpreting it.
Strengths of the occasional photographer:
Spontaneity: Often captures genuine, unstaged moments.
Emotionally grounded: Images may carry deep personal meaning even if not technically perfect.
Freedom from pressure: Without a set brief or theme, there’s joy in photographing whatever catches the eye.
But this casual approach can come with limitations:
Images may lack cohesion or direction as part of a wider body of work.
Visual impact can be hit-or-miss without attention to composition, light, or narrative.
The Conceptual Photographer
By contrast, the conceptual photographer works from an idea or emotion. The image is not just of something—it is about something. A conceptual image might explore memory, loss, identity, or time. The photographer may stage the shot, choose specific lighting or props, and carefully edit to match their vision. The photo is often the result of intentionality rather than chance.
Strengths of the conceptual photographer:
Deeper storytelling: Images are often designed to provoke thought or evoke emotion.
Stylistic development: Over time, a recognisable aesthetic or voice can emerge.
Consistency: Conceptual work often sits better in series or projects.
However:
There’s a risk of overthinking or becoming too self-conscious.
Spontaneity and surprise can sometimes be lost.
Finding Your Place on the Spectrum
Most of us move between these two styles, often without realising. A club outing might produce occasional shots of interesting street scenes—yet a themed challenge like “Time” or “Self” might nudge us into more conceptual territory.
As you reflect on your own photography, try asking:
Do I go out looking for images, or wait until they come to me?
Do I take photos of things, or do I take photos about things?
When I edit, am I aiming for realism or interpretation?
There is no “right” approach. But being aware of these two broad tendencies can help you understand your own photographic voice—and perhaps stretch it.
WGPC welcomes both. We believe in taking more, better photographs—however you define “better.” Whether you’re grabbing a quick snap or crafting a visual poem, your image has a place in the conversation.