Photo Shoot Anxiety

Photo shoot anxiety is real.  Having your photo taken is stressful. This is especially true if you have a diagnosed anxiety disorder (as I do). So, I know it feels overwhelming.

If you find the thought of having your photo taken to be too stressful to book a photographer then keep reading. I have a number of things that will help you.

What is Photoshoot Anxiety

Let's define photo shoot anxiety. Simply put, photoshoot anxiety is an irrational fear of having your photo taken.

Alternatively, it's anxiety triggered during the process either by believing the photo is not good, or seeing the photo and feeling anxious about how you're presented.

Do You Have Photoshoot Anxiety?

Does the thought of being photographed cause you overwhelming amounts of stress and anxiety? If so then you have photoshoot anxiety. At WDO Photography, we understand what photo shoot anxiety is.

If you avoid being in photos then you may have photoshoot anxiety. We understand and we can help.

If seeing a photo of yourself triggers your anxiety then you're dealing with photo shoot anxiety.

Photoshoot Panic vs. Mild Dislike

Let's talk about photoshoot panic vs. mild dislike.

I don't like having my photo taken

A huge number of people don't like being photographed. There are a few reasons for this. First, anyone can take your picture. As such, people who have no idea what they're doing take other people's photos all the time.

Additionally, you've likely not been trained on posing. So, you don't know how to present yourself to the camera. As such, the results might not be great.

This all results in many people disliking their portraits.

Everyone feels weird looking at an awkward picture of themselves. You don't know what to do with your hands or how your smile looks. That's normal.

Nearly everyone feels that way. However, you might hate the resulting photo afterwards. Whereas, others might love the results. This of course depends on the photographer doing their job properly.

Read how to direct kids in posing for family photos.

Photoshoot Panic

Most people have a mild dislike when it comes to having their photos taken. However, yours may rises to the degree that you're searching for ways to manage the stress. Hi there!

Panic is different. Too, panic isn't based in a rational fear. So, why is photoshoot panic irrational? Because the photos nor the photographer are going to harm you. If you're panicking at the thought of being photographed then this article is for you.

Signs of extreme anxiety

Here are signs of extreme photography anxiety. If you hunch your shoulders, clench your jaws, or mouth becomes dry then your experiencing anxiety.

I've seen the look of abject fear. Too, people have refused to be photographed. This is all very real. Plus, it's not something that a photographer should take lightly. Nor is it something you should "just get over" because it's real. Just because it's not rational doesn't mean it's not real.

Prescheduling Anxiety Attacks

Prescheduling anxiety attacks start before you call a photographer. If you're being asked with finding a photographer and you panic then it can be a nearly impossible task. It's easy to obsess over the unknowns and there can be a lot of unknowns. For example:

1.What do I even ask about?
2. What is this going to cost?
3. What if I don't like the photos?
4.How will I look, what if I'm not happy, can I say anything?
5. How will I be judged? 

Reduce Prescheduling Stress

Reduce prescheduling stress with these recommendations.

What Type of Photographer Do You Need

Photographers specialize in different subjects. Use this information to find the type of photographer you need. Following this guide will reduce your stress related to not knowing what to do.

First, figure out what type of photographer you need. Are you getting married, throwing a party, or need a new professional headshot? Look at the services we offer for more examples.

Find A Wedding Photographer

If you're getting married and need a wedding photographer know that they tend to book a year in advance. However, some have openings or cancellations. So, don't worry if your wedding is in a month. Still, know what date you're getting married. The photographer needs this before they book with you. This will help lower your stress levels. Plus it will save you time.

You have your date and your venue. Now look online for ideas of the style you like. Wedding photographers have their own styles. However, they usually fall into broad categories such as glamour or journalistic. Understanding what you're looking for. Now look for local photographers that match your style.

After that, focus on finding a photographer whose personality fits yours. Look not only at their work and prices but also for a photographer who will treat you with respect.

Find A Portrait Photographer

Here's what you need to understand to find a photographer for headshots or family photos. First, search for a local photographer near you who does the type of photography you need. Are you getting family photos done or senior portraits? Do you need headshots or want boudoir photos?

Find a Photographer Near You

Search for headshot photographers near Atlanta for example or professional headshot photographers near Pittsburgh. Don't just search for portrait photographers.

Next, find someone who understands you. There are all sorts of photographers out there. Some are kind and some are not. So, look for a photographer that understands anxiety and will work with you.

Family Photographers

Family photographers often offer mini-sessions. Minis are 20 minute long photoshoots. You have very little time to get to know the photographer. That said, you might prefer this. If they're good, they'll get you in, direct you, pose you, and be done before your heart can begin to pound too hard.

Alternatively, you might prefer a family photographer who will get to know you, take things slow, and be gentle. If this is the case then don't book a mini-session. Instead, book a session that is open ended.

Headshot photographers

Headshots are typically done quickly. In fact, a good headshot photographer makes you comfortable very quickly. As a result, you'll be done before you know it. Again though, find someone who respects you and is kind.

Here are some more more tips of finding and narrowing your choices.

Finding Your Photographer

Armed with knowledge of what you need your photos for you can begin your search. Google the types of photos you need plus your local area. For example if you need family portraits in Pittsburgh search for "Pittsburgh family portraits".  That might seem simple, and it is, but the search itself is an important first step.

Next you really need to look at the photographers who have come up in your search results. Don't just pick the first photographer with nice photos. Instead, find a photographer with photos that you can see yourself in.

Choose a few photographers who take photos of people like you, people of your background, your body-type, and photos that match what you're looking for.

Communication Is Key

Watch out for photographers who have nothing but the most amazingly beautiful models in their portfolio. They've probably hired actual models. Of course there isn't anything wrong with photographing models. However, it tells you nothing about the photographer's ability to work with you. Models know how to pose, they understand lights, cameras, etc.

Find a photographer who photographs everyday people like yourself. Hire a photographer who makes everyone look as fabulous as you want to look in your photos.

Everyday people usually don't know how to pose or where to look, what to do with their hands, etc. A photographer who can only direct models won't be able to help you get fabulous photos unless you yourself are a model.

Find Your Style

Find your style of photographer. Someone whose style you like and can picture yourself in. I promise you that you can find a photographer who you'll click with but it might take some searching. Don't settle for someone whose work you don't like or who you can't see yourself vibbing with.

Read their reviews on Google and Yelp. Be sure to read their about page, and/or blog. See what you can learn about their personalities. Then, make sure they're someone you can relate to and vibe with.

Talk To The Photographer

When you talk to photographers make sure you're talking to them and not an assistant. A photographer that doesn't take time to speak with you may not make time to help you relax while taking your photos.

If you have an anxiety or panic disorder share that with your photographer. If they don't take it seriously hang up. Ask about ways they can help with your anxiety. Your anxiety is real, don't let a photographer gaslight you or ignore your needs. You deserve to be treated with respect. If they don't - find someone else.

As the business owner, I always take time to talk with clients.

At minimum I provide you with an overview of the process. However, I'm also happy to create a detailed plan so you understand everything.

Most People Don't Like Having Their Photo Taken

Most clients tell me they don't like having their photo taken. When they do I make a point of asking if they have an anxiety or panic disorder they would like to disclose to me so I can work with them on not triggering an attack. It's about respect and decency.

Day Of Stress

Stress on the day of your photo shoot can feel overwhelming. No matter the type of photography you're having done you shouldn't have to feel extra stress about it.

To reduce that stress be upfront with your photographer about your levels of anxiety. If you're not comfortable disclosing a diagnosis that's find. However, do try to tell them about your stress levels and your fears. Make sure they're taking you seriously and adjusting to help you minimize anxiety.

Good Photographers Want You Relaxed

Good professional photographers want to understand how you're feeling. We want you to feel calm and relaxed because feelings show up in photos.

Don't try to minimize or dismiss your feelings for the sake of others. Accept that your feelings are valid and expect that others accept that too. It's okay to ask for help managing those feelings especially when you've hired a professional to manage the situation you're in.

Here To Help

If you've been formally diagnosed or had therapy then you may know techniques to help yourself. A good photographer understands and will work with you. They'll allow you the space and time you need. If you're self diagnosed or have not had training from a qualified therapist try the following techniques.

Reduce Day Of Stress

To reduce Day Of Stress allow yourself the time and space you need. If you're doing photos outside or in public ask the photographer to help you find less public places. This way you won't feel like you're being watched.

If you're in the studio make sure they have a space that doesn't feel too small, that will allow you to walk away from the lights and not feel cramped.

Of course, if you're getting married make sure to plan enough time into the day to take a break before your photos and after them. Too, I would advise against drinking alcohol as it can intensify things. Instead, try an anti-anxiety medication that your doctor prescribes.

Breathing Techniques

Remember to breath. Take breaks, take deep breaths, and practice mindfulness. If I have a client who had disclosed an anxiety or panic disorder to me I always plan extra time to give them the space and time they need to feel calm and comfortable.

If you're worried about the way you'll look in the photos ask the photographer to share them with you as they're taking them. Point out areas that you're unhappy with and ask for the photographer to make adjustments.

Problem Solvers

Professional photographers are problem solvers who know their equipment and know how to adjust their gear, your posing, the light, etc. In fact a good photographer will not only be happy to make those adjustments in order to produce photos you love they'll be excited to do it so never feel like your ask is too much, trust me, it's not. If you see any hesitation it's likely the photographer thinking about how to get it done rather than them not wanting to do it.

Other People's Photographers

What if you're dealing with photographers you didn't hire? For example, what if you're in a wedding party and don't know the photographer? Perhaps you're parents are insisting on family photos.

As someone with anxiety I understand how stressed you feel. Anxiety disorder is often accompanied by shame. Our families tells us to not make waves. Parents tell us not to "be difficult" in social situations. Of course that gets to you.

Working With Other People's Photographers

If you didn't hire the photographers yourself here's what to do.

As the photographer, if I notice how stressed you are then it I intervene. First, as photographers we can and should make accommodations. Honestly, it's rarely a problem. So, if you're stressed let the photographer know. In fact, do so privately early just to get it out of the way.

I promise that 99% of photographers will work with you. They may be willing to show you any photos you're. This way you can make sure that you're happy and that you feel your best.

Photographers Can See Your Anxiety

If you're too anxious or shy to tell us don't worry. After all, photographer can see your anxiety. Too, nearly all of us know that anxiety disorders and panic disorders are real. We know they're just as real than allergies or physical disabilities.

Anxiety is Real

If you encounter a photographer who is unwilling to make accommodations then you don't need to have your photo taken by them. Of course, if you must have it taken, you don't have to like the photo. For example, if it's for work or school or otherwise unavoidable you can ask to submit your own.

If you're not being respected then you don't have have to give respect back. In fact, you can leave a negative review on places such as Yelp or Google. This is true no matter what the photographer was hired for or who hired them.

Did This Help?

If this post helped you please let me know via my contact page. If you have other suggestions for helping reduce anxiety or panic around photography please let me know those as well and feel free to share this post in both photography and mental health advocacy groups.

Read more ways to overcome your photography anxiety.