Crafting Your Cinematic Signature: How to Develop Your Filmmaking Style by Brieanna Skarbo
Every filmmaker dreams of developing a unique cinematic style that stands out in a crowded industry But how do you discover and cultivate this elusive "signature"? The truth is that it takes time, experimentation, and a deep understanding of your personal vision. There’s no shortcut to finding your style, but there are several key practices that can help you refine and express your artistic identity on screen, as explained by Brieanna Skarbo.
The first step is to study the greats not just as an audience member, but as a scholar of their craft. Watch films from directors you admire and analyze what makes their style distinct. Is it their use of light and shadow, their unconventional framing, or perhaps the way they craft moments of silence? Try to pinpoint specific choices they make and consider how those elements enhance the storytelling. This process of deconstruction is crucial to understanding the tools at your disposal and how you can use them to tell your own stories You might even take notes on recurring motifs or camera techniques that resonate with you
Once you’ve identified what excites you in others’ work, begin applying those elements to your own films but don’t simply copy. The goal is not imitation but adaptation. Take inspiration from what you’ve learned and use it as a foundation to build something uniquely yours For example, if you’re drawn to the naturalistic dialogue of Richard Linklater’s films, try experimenting with
long, unbroken takes of conversation If you admire Wes Anderson’s symmetrical compositions, explore how you can create balance and order in your frames. Incorporating influences into your own work helps you start finding your voice without being confined by someone else’s
Another key part of developing your style is experimenting with different genres, techniques, and storytelling structures Early in your career, it’s important to test out various approaches to see what feels most comfortable or authentic to you. You might find that you gravitate toward minimalist storytelling, using space and silence to communicate meaning, or perhaps you're drawn to the energy of fast-paced editing and dynamic camerawork Experimentation is the best way to learn what techniques resonate with you and what feels natural for telling the types of stories you’re passionate about
As you continue to explore different techniques and genres, it’s also important to cultivate a strong sense of authenticity Filmmaking is an emotional endeavour, and your personal experiences, values, and perspectives will inevitably shape your style. Whether it’s the themes you choose to explore or the way you craft your characters, your unique worldview will infuse your work with depth and individuality Be bold in embracing the subjects and stories that resonate with you, and don’t be afraid to take risks or tackle topics that others may shy away from
Lastly, remember that style doesn’t emerge overnight. It’s the product of many years of practice, learning from mistakes, and refining your craft As you evolve as a filmmaker, your style will evolve with you Stay open to feedback, but also trust your instincts Over time, as you continue to create, you’ll find that your voice becomes clearer and your cinematic identity more defined.
Discovering your cinematic style is about finding the courage to express your true self through the lens It’s not just about the technical skills you master it’s about the stories you want to tell and how you choose to tell them Keep experimenting, keep refining, and above all, stay true to what moves you. Your cinematic signature will emerge as a reflection of who you are and the vision you wish to share with the world