Why people don’t like being photographed
Many people admit they don’t enjoy being photographed. The idea of standing in front of a camera can feel like stepping under a spotlight, exposed, observed, and vulnerable. On top of that, there’s all the equipment around you, lights, backdrops, and lenses, which can feel alien and intimidating. No wonder it’s difficult to relax.
But honesty, this resistance is completely normal. Psychologically, being photographed activates a self-conscious state where we worry about how others will perceive us. Our brains are wired for self-preservation, and when we feel scrutinised, our “inner critic” tends to take the lead. The good news is that with the right mindset and preparation, you can transform this anxiety into a positive, empowering experience.
Step One: Choose the Right Photographer
This might sound obvious, but it’s often overlooked. The connection with your photographer is the foundation of your whole experience. Many people pick a professional based only on price, without considering whether they’ll feel comfortable and understood.
Here’s the difference:
A photographer working in “survival mode” will often focus on volume rather than quality. Sessions become rushed, and there’s little room for personal attention. It’s like expecting refined cuisine from a fast-food chain, it simply isn’t built for that.
A photographer who cares about service takes the time to listen, understand your vision, and guide you. They create space for you to feel comfortable and supported. This is when the session starts to feel less like a task and more like spending time with a friend, where laughter and connection naturally bring out the best version of you.
Psychologically, this trust reduces anxiety. When you feel safe, your nervous system calms, and you begin to show up more authentically in front of the camera.
© Leticia Gaidon Bradford Photography
Step Two: Design Your Session With Excitement
Once you’ve chosen the right photographer, the creative planning stage can shift your whole perspective. Instead of dreading the camera, you begin to look forward to the session.
This is where imagination comes in. Collect inspiration from magazines or Pinterest, explore colours, styles, or moods that reflect your personality or brand. Play with outfits you already have, and consider a few new pieces if they excite you. This process isn’t just about clothes, it’s about self-expression.
Psychologically, when you tap into creativity, your brain releases dopamine (the “feel-good” chemical), which creates anticipation and positive energy. My clients often say this stage feels like daydreaming: brainstorming together, expanding on ideas, and feeding off each other’s excitement. By the time the session arrives, they are no longer nervous, they’re eager.
Step Three: Protect Your Energy
Here’s an important but often forgotten tip: don’t tell everyone you’re planning a photo session. Why? Because people will project their own insecurities onto you. They might say things like, “Why do you need that?” or “I could never do that,” which often comes from their own fears, not yours.
When you’re about to do something new or vulnerable, your mindset is delicate. Surround yourself with encouragement, not negativity. Protect your energy and keep your focus on the excitement, not the doubts of others.
“We generate fears while we sit. We overcome them by action. ”
© Leticia Gaidon Bradford Photography
Practical Mindset Tips Before Your Session
Reframe the camera as an ally. Instead of thinking of it as something that exposes your flaws, see it as a tool that highlights your best self. We, the photographers, know how to use the angles and poses on your favour, so enjoy the process you are in good hands.
Visualise success. Spend a few minutes imagining yourself laughing, enjoying the session, and seeing beautiful portraits as the final result. Visualisation primes your brain to expect positive outcomes.
Breathe and ground yourself. Before being photographed by me I consider that you are not ready for starting the session moments of relax are gold for helping you to relax, for example, we talk while I prepare coffee or tea in my kitchen. We are like friends getting ready for a fun creative time where you are going to look gorgeous. Also, at some point during the session, we need to relax and breath to go back to cero to start all over again. All of these help to signals safety to your body, calming the fight-or-flight response.
Nothing can spoil your excitement that day: Usually, things will go wrong before the session. Maybe the relative who promised to drop the kids at school couldn’t do it, and you have to step in, for example. I always advise my clients not to worry about it. The main thing to take care of is protecting your mood for the photo session. Nothing can spoil your excitement that day, we can adjust to everything.
Focus on the ‘why’. Remember why you’re doing this, to elevate your brand, capture memories, or celebrate yourself. This purpose is bigger than the momentary discomfort.
“If it is important to you, you will find a way.
If not, you will find an excuse. ”
Being photographed isn’t just about standing in front of a camera, it’s about allowing yourself to be seen. That takes courage, but with the right photographer, preparation, and mindset, it becomes an uplifting experience.
You may even surprise yourself: what once felt intimidating can become fun, creative, and deeply affirming. Many of my clients tell me they walked out from the session feeling empowered, beautiful, and excited to share their images.
And that’s the magic of portraits, they don’t just capture how you look, they transform how you see yourself.
Book your free consultation today and discover how professional headshots can elevate your brand.
Follow me in Instagram. Connect with me in LinkedIn.
Thank you for reading.
Bye for now.