>>3389553I think you are conflating good photos and consistent style.
To address your first question, there's two parts to this answer. A photographer needs to be able to both execute technically in a photograph, but also tell a story/express some emotion/otherwise give the viewer a reason to engage with the image. This can exist entirely in the image on it's own, or it can be an accompanying article/blurb that gives context for an image. A photograph does not need to be technically perfect, but if it isn't there should be some emotional aspect that explains/ties into the technical failing. A grainy, blurry image of a protest movement makes sense thematically. A blurry portrait for a photoseries on lawyers less so.
Consistency in style is something that many photographers end up with, but that isn't the end all be all of being a successful photographer. As long as the inconsistency is recognized, you can take a variety of "good" images that all look wildly different.
That said, if you're looking to make a career out of photography, people like to see consistency of style so they know what they're getting when they hire you. Consistency also leads to much better success on social media. These things, of course, do not necessarily need to be a priority for you.
I have an inconsistent overall style, but a very consistent one within the same photoseries. This works well for me, but YMMV.
If you want to post some pics or your Instagram I might be able to address your first question and the criticism you're receiving more directly.
