I was recently reading on the online photographer about technique, and how accomplished photographers don’t really pay attention to it. I agree, and technique also influences style. Or rephrasing: The tools one used influences the appearance of your art, and so helps define your style.
For various reasons, I use Linux (ubuntu) and (mainly) open source tools such as gimp and digikam, among others. Each of these tools, and especially my favourite RAW converter influences the way I handle my digital files. I guess the question is whether I use these tools because they give me the look I want, or if I get my look because I use these tools. I think the answer is a combination of each. I have used other software, but much of the time I get frustrated because I seem to be fighting the software rather than said software helping me achieve my vision.
Now some will say I am a sucker for punishment because I don’t use mainstream tools. Again I argue that programs like Lightroom or Bibble, while very versitile, encourage you to work in a specific manner. If this manner works for you, great, all the more power, but again, a variety of tools gives more opportunity for experimentation. Not all painters use the same brushes, not all carpenters use the same brand of hammer.
So my advice? Try using a variety of software, however don’t get caught up on using Photoshop, for example, just because “everyone else” uses it. There is something to be said for forging your own path.