Category Archives: Photography

“The photos got inside my head!”

The photos got inside my head!

Yes this is something I heard very recently – “the photos got inside my head”! So my last blog was on what we think of ourselves when we look in the mirror, or see ourselves in a photograph. Following on from this, I heard an interesting story recently from a lady I know.

She and her family went on a holiday cruise earlier in the year. There were photograph opportunities organised for families and guests on board. In no uncertain terms, she relayed how it was the worst photoshoot experience she had ever had, and without all the detail, she hadn’t enjoyed the experience and hated the results.

BUT my biggest concern was when she then said that the photographs ‘got inside my head’ and made her seriously doubt about how she looked. On their return, she went on a strict diet (because of how she felt) and did a family shoot at home using her phone and tripod. This was to re-assure herself that she didn’t look quite so bad.

Now I will often tell people, they may from time to time see images of themselves they’re not keen on, but it DOESN’T mean you can’t take a good one. This is to help them understand that often there are reasons and elements in a photograph that were outside their responsibility or control.

In a very early blog, I questioned the common saying ‘the camera never lies’. I still say this saying is not strictly true. Bear this in mind as you read…

Her story really troubled me and I found myself with all sorts of questions.

Did the shipping company use professional photographers?
How had they got the lights set?
Had they got the right angles for people?
Importantly, did the families and guests have an enjoyable experience?

Perhaps the photographers were rushed themselves if they had a lot of people to get through? However ‘conveyer belt’ photography is rarely going to achieve good results. If they were rushed, there was not going to be much opportunity for people to have a good experience.

From the information I was given the results of the images were far from flattering or accurate. However, whatever the photographers did or didn’t get right, it was how this particular lady was left feeling, when she stated – “the photos got inside my head”!

BUT as I mentioned earlier, it was the effect the results had on someones view of themselves.

Many people could see this as a reason to never want to be photographed again. While understandable, is perfectly avoidable.

So following on from last months blog, this is an interesting story of how we see ourselves in photographs. Perhaps it’s simply a knowledge thing, so ‘non photographers’ get some idea why some photographs are not particularly appealing.

Why do I bang on about the importance of lighting, angles and an enjoyable experience?

Because they are such important factors to achieving images you’ll love.

Have you ever had a similar experience?

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Don’t forget, the You Tube channel has tips for being photographed running up to Christmas available 🙂
https://www.youtube.com/@love-your-image

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NEWS – Watch this space!

With the new year just around the corner – I plan to merge Love Your Image with Penny Morgan Photography.
More news on this coming soon 🙂

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Personal branding and being visible in your business.

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Personal branding and being visible in your business – what does it mean for you?

If you are considering using someones services or their products, what’s an initial thing you might do? Check them out – their website, their social media channels and Trust pilot are all things you might look for. You will quickly form an opinion according to what you find… or as importantly, what you don’t find. But you will form an opinion and it could influence your decision on whether to buy from, or work with who you are checking out.

Let’s turn this round to you and your potential clients who could be checking you out. First of all, that’s great, that’s exactly what you want them to do … and what will they find?

It’s is really important to get yourself visible for your audience, but what if you just don’t feel comfortable doing this?

Your brand encompasses a lot more than your logo.

You are very much part of your brand, the way you speak, your values, beliefs, why you do what you do and your personal visibility. It’s all part of what makes up your personal brand.

So here’s the thing, your potential clients want to know who you are, today, now, not an old inappropriate shot from some years back or on holiday. If you form an opinion of someone when you see these, they will do the same for you.

Becoming comfortable and at ease to do this is priority so you project the genuine you. Good clear headshots showing you as the friendly and approachable person you are is a great start.
Love Your Image offers a headshot session, specifically to help you find your confidence: Explore Your Image

But you can do so much more with it.

There is no getting away from it, that photographs and videos are an important part of establishing your brand. But you can ease yourself into it, taking one step at a time and find your feet.

Find your stories

Big, little, personal, business, using photographs and videos to tell them. It is very common that a personal post receives more engagement than a more regular business post, so your posts don’t always need to be business related. They don’t need to be your life story – many will relate to little snippets of what’s going on in your world.

I’ve been photographing Kim both personally and professionally since 2012.

Kim started out, all those years ago, not so comfortable being photographed, to now being a very prolific content creator.
She has many, many photos of herself, living, relaxing and working and can find the right image to go with the right post.

Personal and professional authentic shots of Kim

Kim working from home

Kim relaxing on a beach near her home

Kim relaxing at home

She still uses some of those photographs from years ago, to illustrate a relevant post, as well as many up to date ones from our last shoot in 2023:

Kim in touch with her online presence during a photoshoot

Kim presenting to her audience about social media

Kim’s website can be found here – Morr Marketing

How did we achieve this?

As the professional guiding, it’s important I establish a good rapport with you from the outset. Put you in a place where you can feel at ease and able to be yourself is paramount. I have to earn your trust. What better way, than to start with a cup of tea/coffee and find some mutual ground 🙂

It’s also important to discuss what you would like and what you are hoping to achieve. Finding the right photographer who is going to listen and guide you where they feel it’s necessary with creative ideas, or in areas that you’ve asked for their help and suggestions.

You don’t need to struggle!

Help is at hand and we can quite literally take it one step at a time, until you have conquered your fears and can be yourself in front of a camera.

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Comfort Zones, confidence and control – what comes first?

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What comes first to make a change or feel we are moving forward in our lives?

Comfort zones, confidence and control – what comes first? People who dislike getting in front of a camera and being photographed, often say they can’t imagine what it might be like to feel differently. For many it had’t even occurred to them this was something they could change. The turning points could be:

When it starts to impact something important to you.
When you realise it’s holding you back.
When you realise you don’t want to feel like that anymore.

So what happens first?

Do we just shut our eyes and step into the unknown, because what have we got to lose?
Do we need to find an element of confidence before we can step out of our comfort zone?
Do we need to have some control to take that step, in order for our confidence to grow?

Well yes, anyone of these things may be right for different people.

People feel out of control.

I’ve been hearing an increasing number of comments around the area of ‘control’ relating to getting in front of a camera. People feel out of control, or they have no control over the situation. This seems to be growing with our society’s use of phone cameras. More than that, an increased assumption in people that they can capture anybody anywhere without considering how individuals feel. Indeed, at a business event/networking meeting, you come to expect it will happen at some point.

You could be at a private gathering where you don’t necessarily know everyone.
You may not know where these images are going to end up.
You may feel even more uncomfortable asking to exclude yourself from the images.

You could feel trapped between a rock and a hard place.

Perhaps you have more control than you think.

So considering our subject of ‘comfort zones, confidence and control – what comes first’, perhaps you have more control than you think? You should always feel you are able to politely exclude yourself from images, without fear of judgement or complaint. Learning to deal with responses such as “oh you’ll be fine” or “well I want to capture everyone here”, is both achievable and empowering.

Learning how to position yourself and importantly, what to focus on when in such a situation will also put you much more at ease.

If working with a professional, it is they who should help you feel in control. This will likely make you feel happier and more at ease, achieving a positive effect on the results.

I want to change how I feel.

If like me, you may be a bit stubborn and prefer to discover everything for yourself! However, learning interesting facts and information that provide me with lightbulb moments for change or improvement – is empowering! It’s something I’ve achieved in myself and observed in others.

When you’ve made a decision for change, non judgemental guidance can make so much difference. Not to do the challenge for you – but to provide step by step insights and help you see a different perspective. Provide encouragement and belief in yourself. Your journey is not their journey, but they will be there to help you achieve your goals.

Interestingly, some of the things mentioned in this blog, I did mention in an earlier one, written and published two years ago and you could find a helpful read – I had to step outside my comfort zone

So you receive more blogs like these, make sure you sign up to the mailing list on – Love Your Image

Secondly, you can sign up for a free consultation and review what your options could be – Review Your Image

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All systems are moving forward with the planned online courses – 🙂 – news out soon.

Don’t forget to visit our You Tube channel to find useful tips and recorded conversations – Love Your Image You Tube channel.

What’s really going on in a photograph – Part 2

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Have you ever had your photograph de-constructed?

Well why would you… unless you don’t like what you see?

What’s really going on in a photograph? Last year I wrote a blog on this subject to deconstruct what brings a photograph together. This broke down the various elements to explain why we don’t see beyond what’s directly in front of us. This is particularly relevant if you don’t like getting in front of a camera and think a poor result is all your fault.

If you haven’t already read it, I’m sharing a link to that blog again:

What’s really going on in a photograph?

It’s all about a good conversation.

Recent conversations brought last years observations to mind and worthy of adding another angle on the subject (pun intended). An image is essentially the result of a conversation, or communication between two parties. The success of the photo/s depends on the quality of that connection. Both sides of the conversation would like a good outcome that shows in the results, for their own agendas. But they both have to give the other something to achieve that.

Let’s assume for a moment that the technical side is all good and ok when capturing the image.

However, there still needs a good rapport going in order to get the engagement and guarantee great results. As in a normal conversation, if one always dominates and doesn’t consider or understand the others needs or point of view then the connection may not achieve the results you’d hope for.

Equate this to taking a photograph:

Person being photographed:

Do you feel comfortable with the photographer?
Do they talk you through the process and put you at ease?
Do they give you confidence, that enables you to trust you’ll get good results?
Do you feel out of control?

Photographer:

How closely do you observe your subject?
Do you know what you’re looking for and how to get it?
Do you start a conversation and keep it going?
Are you able to recognise if your subject is feeling anxious?

Let’s add another consideration…

This is not a professional shoot and someone has their phone camera out. This is traditionally where any conversation ends. There is also unlikely to be any guidance on the assumption you know how to stand/sit/smile. The photographer is intent on looking at their phone and before you know it… the photograph is taken. You are left with no idea how that image looks and perhaps a feeling of apprehension of its result. The photographer doesn’t see this through the same eyes as you.

If you express your feelings of “do we have to do this?” – it can be met with “you’ll be fine – don’t worry about it”.

So, you can now understand a bit more of what really goes on in a photograph, whether you are being captured, or, you are the one taking the photograph. If you want great results, start with great engagement with those you have in your camera site 🙂

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The YouTube channel continues to have things added to it. There will be another series of top tips soon, leading up to the Christmas period to help you when the cameras are out – Love Your Image on You Tube

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Buying into a ‘look’ and know what’s really going on.

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Do you buy into a particular fashion trend?

When I say ‘fashion’, I’m including clothes, shoes, makeup and now cosmetic enhancements – do you buy into the current ‘look’ and know what’s really going on.

Some of my blogs may start off and appear not to have much to do with photography. But over the last 19 months of writing, there is always a vital and relevant connection. They are always on a subject that affects how people feel in front of a camera or what they see in an image. This could be a direct attachment to a subject, or a general underlying influence that has affected you over a period of time.

This one is mainly based on our attitude to following fashions and why we do it in relation to how we see and feel about ourselves.

Clothes:

Now I love clothes and make-up as much as anyone and have probably adopted different styles over the years. But my attitude has changed also… for the better (I consider) I’m glad to add. Once, I would try something on and be disappointed in the result, because my basic self-esteem on how I looked was not the greatest. Yes, I would see a fashion or trend and try to replicate that look. What I saw in a picture was what I thought I wanted to be like and how I wanted others to see me… whether it suited me or not!

Valuable guidance

Working as a photographer, I frequently get asked for advice on what to wear for a shoot. I give them a few tips, but also recommend they consider the services of a stylist. Such a person can help them with what colours and styles suit them, whatever age, shape and size they are at. Many will also help you make the best use of your existing wardrobe, rather than buying new.

Below, I’ve shared a video interview with Shirley Webb, who is a colour and clothes stylist.

Fortunately, I’ve never been a ‘label’ follower. Yes, I look for decent quality clothes, but not highly priced, recognised branded items. There is nothing wrong in these items if you really love it, looks good on you and you can afford. But there are those who will buy into this, regardless of its cost and whether they can afford it, simply because of it’s name. Many believe they will be judged positively because of what they are wearing, believing it creates a sense of where they sit in society.

Makeup:

Once I would never go out, or go to work without some on. Why? Because I didn’t want people to see the real me. I had been conditioned in my younger years to think that the ‘look’ of makeup was expected and I’d be judged by not ‘looking my best’. But not so influenced to remember my grandmother suggesting my own mother should wear a little more. My mum never did wear a great deal, she was busy bringing up five children, so her priorities were elsewhere.

So my use of make-up has now vastly reduced. I can happily go out with or without makeup and confident in how I look. So I wear it when it suits me now and enjoy the look of both.

Cosmetic enhancements:

This one I question the most, however for many is a regular expenditure:

Botox
Lip augmentation
Facelift
Eyelid lift
Forehead lift
Rhinoplasty
Plastic Surgery
Breast augmentation
Liposuction

I’ve never had any of these as I don’t consider I need them. However, having never experienced any, will try and stay balanced in my opinions, as once upon a time a younger me may have felt differently.

Yes, I can completely see why some might be helpful and favourable in certain circumstances. They have perhaps been born, or experienced changes to their appearance through accident or disfigurement. This can already have led to a lifetime of challenges with bullying or judgement.

I also empathise with those who’ve already bought into this option for whatever reason they felt it necessary.

Fashions change!

Of course they do and will always continue to do so through time. Why does this happen? Well yes, we all need to buy clothes for practical reasons but would also want to look good in them… nothing wrong in that. From my own observations it’s driven by the big corporates who sell us ‘fashion’ and our insatiable want to carve an identity in how we look. One feeds the other.

Therefore, if you’ve bought into permanent cosmetic enhancements to be part of a particular look or style – what happens when that fashion changes? Our skin is our largest organ and serves many purposes. It’s not there just as an aesthetic covering.

How I want others to see me

I don’t know when I became aware that this life is not a competition – it’s really not.
Or, looking for approval from others in how I look in order to fit in – is not needed.
Or, perhaps it was when I introduced the idea to myself that I’m exactly as I should be just as I am.
Or, I stopped criticising myself and wanting to change things.

I choose to buy into MY own look and continue to nurture that thought that I am enough.

This leads me onto that word ‘perfect’.

When we apply it to ourselves, does the word ‘perfect’ get taken out of context?

If we can agree that we are all different and unique in our own ways, why do we consider ourselves as having ‘imperfections’?

Who has the authority to say a particular size, shape… or ‘look’ is what we should be aiming for to be a ‘somebody’?

If it makes us individually feel better to make a change in ourselves then we do it for us and not for others. Why should we entertain others judging us on our size or looks?

When we start to consider and embrace that we are already perfect, you can start to like and love what you see to a level you never thought possible.

Yes that might seem like a goal many of us couldn’t achieve. But, what have you got to lose by trying? Is buying into a particular look because you compare yourself to others, the best reason?

Being photographed and viewing images of ourselves, simply underlines and exposes that view we have of self.

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Don’t forget to visit the Love Your Image You Tube channel and find the top tips for getting in front of a camera.

Love Your Image on You Tube

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Have your free review and find out how to move forward with getting in front of a camera.

Review Your Image

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Social media, advertising and our self-esteem

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Social media, advertising and our self-esteem.

Powerful influences, invisible by their constant visibility!

If you have phones, tablets, computers and TVs, you’re exposed to advertising and social media.

Yes, we can create ‘free’ accounts on all the various platforms, in return for placing adverts and ‘sponsored’ or ‘suggested’ postings in our viewing. Algorithms cleverly watch what you view and search on, to tailor the adverts and posts you see. But how aware are you of the effects of social media, advertising and our self-esteem?

Should the very word ‘influencers’ on platforms such as Instagram and TikTok ring alarm bells?

What’s this got to do with photography and getting in front of a camera?

Well quite a lot really – mainly in the way it influences how people see themselves in an image.

I’d love to say I see as many positive comment as negative, but I don’t. However, I’ll let you be the judge of that in comments you see and read on your own platforms.

Is all advertising and social media bad?

Definitely not – there are many things we see or search on, that are useful to us and just what you need in your personal or business life. People can also be very supportive of each other in images they see of their friends and loved ones. So I’ve become quite an observer of these influences and the way they operate.

But it’s a lot to do with how easily you are influenced?

This is what I often observe:

Are they trying to make me feel bad about myself in order to sell me something?
Are they using urgent time scale pressure, so I will make a quick decision to buy/commit?
Are they using sensationalism or ‘click bait’ to draw me in?
Are they using peer pressure, so I will want to be part of that gang or tribe?

I use the word ‘they’, because there are humans who make decisions on marketing strategies. The algorithms, mainly collect the data they want to know about on peoples behaviour – that includes you.

I could go on…

What’s the damaging end result in amongst all this, if the above list works?

People, thinking they should be more like this that or the other, or have this that or the other, because they are led to believe they will then be a better person, or, accepted and ‘fit in’ to society.

I hope you get an idea of what I’m observing here. People can be subconsciously influenced to have a poor image of themselves, for no good reason! However, it’s something I both hear and observe in many who come to work with me. Yes, I include myself in that as a younger person, when I hated my photograph being taken. A lot of it was to do with my own self-esteem and how I viewed myself.

At this point I’d like to share a very relevant and current You Tube video from Dove:

Dove Self-Esteem project video.

Realising if we are to truly be in charge of our own lives and the decisions we make, for the sake of our own mental health, awareness of these influences is absolutely key.

Yes there are many plus points having the technology to connect with each other and, have easy access to important information so freely. However many in society are being blindly led in a direction these influences want them to go and most of us are exposed to this much of our waking day.

Remember it is you and you alone who are in charge of your life.

You can be in control of what you see and hear. Be aware of what influences your life. Others will respect you far more for being your own person.

So, how aware are you of the effects of social media, advertising and our self-esteem?

Do you want to be in charge, or be influenced?

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If this has been helpful to you, you can sign up to the Love Your Image mailing list and be advised when a new blog is published. https://loveyourimage.co.uk/blogspot/

You can also subscribe to the Love Your Image You Tube channel and benefit from regular tips on getting in front of a camera. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSAtg3HmSQBsoVugqs21Nlw

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Pro camera v phone camera – what’s the difference?

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Why does it take me so many attempts to get a good selfie? Pro camera v phone camera – what’s the difference?

Selfie, after selfie, after selfie… you take several, to finally get one you think will be just about ok – sound familiar? Have you ever considered the different results between a pro camera and a phone camera?

It’s an observation I hear frequently.

‘But we all have the cameras on our phones so I can do my own headshots can’t I?’…

Now before you switch off, I’m NOT going to get technical, although the differences are all technical. I’m going to show you comparisons and why it makes a difference to the way you view your own image.

As always, I often refer to related content in a previous blog, take a read, it may help: Using Phone cameras and filters.

The following two images were taken in the same spot, same angle, minutes apart, very similar ratio crop, no retouching:

The first was taken on an phone camera – The second taken on my professional camera:

Selfie image, full on to the camera, no re-touching.

Selfie image, taken on a phone, illustrating distortion.

Selfie image, taken on a professional camera, no-retouching.

A selfie image, taken with a professional DSLR camera.

Firstly, let me point out the distortion on my facial features, which is pretty obvious as you can see. The image taken on my pro camera is far more representative of who I am and what I look like.

I promised I wouldn’t get technical … but these are all technical issues and if you want to know more on that, please get in touch.

Secondly, the colour representation. In fairness to our phone cameras, (especially the newer models) they can do a pretty good job. However, that’s often when there is plenty of natural daylight. The jumper colour is really accurate with my pro camera.

Thirdly, the light level. Although there was reasonably good ambient light, I didn’t have a good source of natural daylight directly on my face. You can see the difference in how the two cameras managed it.

The following two images were again taken in the same spot, same angle, minutes apart, very similar ratio crop, no retouching:

The first was taken on an iPhone – The second taken on my professional camera:

Selfie image, with part of my hand in view.

This is a second illustration of phone camera distortion.

Selfie taken on a professional camera with part of my hand visible in front.

Selfie on a professional DSLR camera comparison.

This illustrates the distortion again. While I was holding my hand the same distance from the lens, my fingers are clearly much larger in the first image. Again, the colour representation and light levels differ too.

The following two images are a little older, both taken with a phone camera, a little further away from the lens.

You can still see some distortion in these, but as they are further away from the camera, it’s less obvious.

Selfie taken at arms length with slightly less distortion.

This selfie taken at arms length illustrates slightly less distortion.

What’s this comparison got to do with how we see ourselves?

I may have mentioned this before, but it’s worth covering again. One of the first things that can cause us to question or dislike an image of ourselves is ‘unfamiliarity’. We are used to seeing ourselves in the mirror. However, when we see a photograph, it’s the other way round, which is how everyone else sees us. We may all think our faces are symmetrical, but we’re not. So slight differences on each side of our face are reversed. Add to this additional unflattering distortion as shown above, potential for poor lighting, wrong angle, and it’s no wonder people keep trying to take selfies unsuccessfully.

Pro camera v phone camera – what’s the difference?

In conclusion, you can clearly see quite a difference between phone camera images and those taken on a professional DSLR. So working with a professional photographer, is not just about their knowledge of how to get the best from you. It’s the type of camera they are using too.

Both the following help sessions are good starters for you to understand more about the images you have and why you might not be so keen on them, especially if they were taken on a phone camera:

https://loveyourimage.co.uk/review-your-image/

https://loveyourimage.co.uk/explore-your-image/

Did you know Love Your Image is on LinkedIn?

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Is judgement human nature or a choice?

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Is judgement human nature or a choice?

Sticks and stones can break my bones but words will never hurt me… or do they …? Cue the suit of armour!

We all do it, but we hate when it’s done to us.

Judgement is everywhere – we all have opinions on a lot of things throughout our lives.

Unless you’ve had a particular incident that you can relate back to, a fear of being judged is one of the biggest contributors for a dislike of being photographed.

It’s a frequent observation when meeting and working with new people in front of a camera. The apprehension and anxiety is visible. Until they realise there is no judgement or expectation for them to be anything else but themselves.

This ties in with the last blog regarding the values and expectations we learn from birth. It’s taken me years of my life to understand this. I work on changing things when I consider necessary, in my efforts to be a better human being… there, I’ve just made a judgement upon my own life.

Let’s look at what judgement or, to judge means.

We all have opinions on things – so is it when we share or verbalise an opinion that it becomes a judgement? That may depend on whether it’s referring to a fact, or, judgement being passed, as in a court of law. When it comes to speaking/posting a personal opinion about someone/group of people, are we aware of the impact it could have on their life?

The one thing you can be sure of… if you judge others, you in return will be judged.

Yes we have far more freedom of speech in the UK than some other countries. So perhaps some see it as their right to pass judgement? However, it doesn’t change universal law that what you give out, you will get back.

Have you ever considered reducing the amount you judge?
Refrain from verbalising an opinion a little more often?
Would it make you a happier person?
Would it change the dynamics of your relationships with others?

Who are we to pass comment on someone when we perhaps know little about them, or their life. Or how their day was panning out when you crossed paths with them? Is judgement only considered negatively, or can you have positive judgement?

All points to consider.

To change this in ourselves, we first need to understand why we do it.

Many of us live a life of comparison and trying to be what others expect, for fear of being judged. It’s born out of wanting to be accepted, liked, loved and to fit in. It takes, a lot of learning, self assurance, confidence and belief in yourself to feel comfortable NOT to do this. Reading that back, I’m thinking “Why would we do that to ourselves?” But we do.

How do we deal with judgement and what can we do about it?

We may not have control of what people say to us. But we definitely have control and choice of how think and behave when it’s dished out!

When we receive judgement, our initial reaction can be one of upset and hurt. You may feel you want to hit back and defend yourself. Please remember to keep this in context of a particular situation. But you can learn to realise, things people say, speaks much more about them, than it does about you. Judgement from one person, may be a compliment from another, according to their opinion. How many times have you heard an opinion being voiced? But it wasn’t asked for and was fairly obviously unnecessary.

It’s a challenge to keep our opinions to ourselves when others have been judgemental to us. Very often, it’s said in jest, or it can be followed up with “I was only joking”. If you’ve been following my blogs, I refer to an example I shared in ‘Photographer Responsibility – part 2’.

There is strength and power in knowing when to stay silent and when to respond.

Very often things others say stay with us, cause us to doubt ourselves, and question what we do and who we are. This is something some people will have endured for many years. It can cover all sorts of things, in every area of our lives. How we behave – even expectations in what we look like in our dress and style. It’s often most difficult to deal with if we are tired or feeling a little low.

What positive can come out of this? An individuals unique personality will always want to break through and be itself. You can start your journey of change to become who you want to be.
*** Awareness of ourselves is key to helping you on that path.

Being stronger to deal with judgement starts with ourselves.

Be kinder to yourself and stop giving yourself a hard time, it’s not a sign of weakness or giving in. If you feel you’ve made errors in the past, you were simply doing your best at the time. Judging others less will also reap its rewards.

So in answer to my original heading question. Is judgement human nature or a choice? I believe it’s a mix of both. Yes it’s part of human nature, but you do have a choice and can learn to deal with it. Start changing some lifetime habits. As I mentioned previously, it is essential for someone to feel they can be themselves when being photographed, without fear of being judged.

A date for your diaries 🙂 – this blog ties in perfectly with the event.

*** I will be one of the panelists at the ‘BE YOU’ event on April 28th 2023 in Bury St Edmunds at The Athenaeum. It’s all about driving change through conversation and support, to help you BE YOU. Do book your ticket and come along :).

Don’t forget, you can follow me on social media channels and check out and subscribe to the Love Your Image You Tube channel.

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Culture shock photography!

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Does the culture and society we live in affect our attitude towards being photographed?

Does the culture and society we live in affect our attitude towards being photographed? Here in the UK, we live in what is considered a modern civilised society. We are a developed country, as like Europe, Canada, North America, Australia, New Zealand. But the world is ever more multicultural, and effects of our society filter through to other countries and cultures. Made ever easier with the growth of the internet, mobile phones and social media connectivity.

One thing that is certain, culture, fashion, image, beauty, styles, all evolve and change over the centuries. In my opinion one of the things that can drive change and evolution in a culture is money. Whether it’s a lack of it, or lots of it. Innovation is and can be great for the world population. Although as mankind has discovered that can come at a cost when misused.

But what’s all this got to do with getting in front of a camera?

Well the culture we are born into and grow up in is going to have a profound effect on our learning and development. Yes it’s also got a lot to do with those closest to us. If they’ve grown up in the same environment, a lot of expectations and beliefs can be very similar.

Now we are getting closer to the point…

Part of our belief system that we learn and develop from when we are children, comes from the society we are born into. Our youngsters haven’t experienced a world where the internet and computers, including mobile devices didn’t exist.

Each generation can be heard to say “when I was young, we didn’t have (this that or the other) … “. You’ve only got to search YouTube for Monty Python’s Yorkshireman sketch if you fancy a real giggle on this.

But somewhere in the world there are children who live without access to clean water. Have nothing more than the clothes they stand in, let alone a TV or a mobile phone.

This blog is not about the right and wrong of these things. It’s to highlight the beliefs we form, including that of ourselves, according to the world we are raised in.

Somewhere in the world all these things have been and are considered beautiful and attractive:

Large in size
Tooth sharpening
Lip and neck stretching
Flawless skin
Small feet
Pale skin
Dark skin

In our world, we can easily see ourselves. We have mirrors. We have phones and cameras with which we can capture pictures. As a two year old, you may have discovered yourself in a mirror, and kissed your reflection. When was the last time you were able to look in a mirror, and genuinely love what you see?

Nowadays, we have ‘trendsetters’ and ‘influencers’ on platforms like Instagram and TikTok.

Copying a style has become normal. The pressure to confirm and be like others in our peer groups is HUGE.Reality TV produce series in the name of ‘entertainment’ that further highlight current ‘trends’. It’s invisible in its normality as an accepted part of our daily life… until it causes us problems. The term ‘reality TV’ itself I find questionable. Does it really reflect real life and real people? Trendsetters and influencers can be an inspiration to many and be a positive thing in lots of ways. However, it’s the expectations we put on ourselves, to be like this that or the other that I find unsettling.

Some people lives their lives by others benchmarks.

I’ve always wanted to encourage people to be their own person and to learn to love who they are.

For those who don’t like being photographed or seeing the results, it can have evolved from the belief system they developed in the society they grew up in. This would include how they see themselves – not something you would necessarily be aware of. There is another given in life. WE are responsible for ourselves and the person we become. This is made up of the choices we make and how we get there. Yes life has a habit of throwing us good things and big ‘ol curve balls. We can’t necessarily change what has happened, but we can change and be in control of how we react.

The pandemic has highlighted our need to take care of our mental health…

Perhaps there are some positive things to come out of the challenge of the past 3 years. If it causes us to be more aware of ourselves and what affects us, it’s never too late to make changes to feel happier and healthier… and love who we are and what we see.

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For those who find getting in front of the camera for Video, there will soon be a series of Video shorts on the Love Your Image You Tube channel – using a personal project for illustration, these will be video clips on creating videos 😎

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Photoshop and airbrushing

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You can change anything in an image now using Photoshop and airbrushing.

This is a software program I use nearly everyday – it enables me to shoot in Camera Raw and open the images in Photoshop to edit … WAIT … that’s already too technical and if you haven’t switched of, let me explain something that will make a lot more sense to you.

I’m sure most of you have heard of the term ‘photoshopped’, it’s even in the dictionary! In brief it is image editing software. It’s the industry standard widely used by Photographers, Videographers, Graphic Designers and many other creatives. It is huge and very versatile. You can use it for years and still find you only access a small part.

As a professional photographer, I need to get as much right in camera as possible rather than spending hours in Photoshop afterwards. However, generally speaking, there are situations where I need to be able to correct an image because conditions were not quite right at the time of taking the image. Photoshop enables me to do this – i.e. adjust the light levels, colour balance, improve the crop. Most of these are only small adjustments, and is part of the processing.

However, most of you who know me as a photographer of people and that is the focus in this blog, so …

Are you aware of just how much can be changed and its effect on how we see ourselves?

To illustrate, the two following images of myself, say it all really. I would add however, that while the two examples are a bit extreme (in my opinion), a lot of media airbrushing that happens, is barely noticeable and it’s kept very realistic. Leading us to truly believe that models, celebrities and those frequently in printed media do look just like that.

Before editing …

After editing …

If I was happy and liked the results of the second one, what I’ve really said is …

“I don’t like how I look in the first image”

“I’m not good enough without some re-touching”

But if you hadn’t met me, what would you think if I used the second image as a headshot!

If you are in business and out and about networking, what does your headshot say about you? This is what people may have seen before they meet you for real.

Where has all this come from???

Before editing software was available, photographers had to get it right in camera, or have a very fiddly task of correcting something on a film photograph. With the rise of digital cameras has come the development of editing software. Don’t get me wrong the software editing tool is hugely useful for all sorts of things. My concern here is what it can do to our self esteem.

Here are a few examples where I would and have agreed to correct:

An engagement shoot and there was a very sunburnt nose on display.

Someone had a tooth fall out and the person was having it replaced with an implant.

A black eye!

You never know what might happen just before a booked shoot.

However, technology develops at a great pace.

Our younger generation especially, don’t know an age when photo re-touching at the touch of a few buttons didn’t exist.

The following video is by Dove and has been in circulation for about a year now.

Why aren’t we telling all young girls that they are beautiful just as they are???

Well hats off to Kate Winslet – in this this particular video as she removes her makeup, but the message is the same, whether it’s makeup, or digital editing.

BUT Christmas is round the corner, so let’s finish this blog with some positive tips.

If you are heading off to Christmas and New Year parties, or catching up with friends and family, the cameras will be out in abundance!

If you’ve been following my posts on social media, or have signed up to receive the top-tips, yes all these things apply. However, we are talking about situations where there will be a lot more spontaneous moments. The tip on lighting still applies, but there will likely not be an opportunity to do anything about it… you may be amongst dance floor lights, Christmas lights, and spotlights!

Tip 1 – Don’t stand and wait to be positioned. Whether on your own or in a group, it’s unlikely to happen! Position yourself at an angle that is comfortable for you and watch the person with the camera at all times!
Tip 2 – Be yourself, and in the moment. Not all successful photographs have to be looking to camera.
Tip 3 – Get the person in charge of their camera, to give you some idea of when they are taking the photograph! You can do this too when capturing others.
Tip 4 – Don’t let others make you feel awkward or bad if you politely decline to be in a photograph. They are not in your shoes or understand how you feel.
Tip 5 – Typical example of what can happen when people are just not ready … and seconds later when they are. Give people a chance to be at ease and smiling.

Let people know when the shot is being taken!

These tips will be posted on my social media platforms each Friday throughout December, with an image to illustrate. However you get to have the tips early :).

I hope there will be another blog before the end of the year, but in the meantime, do have a happy and enjoyable festive period, wherever you are and whoever you share it with.

PS – don’t forget Love Your Image has a You Tube channel

PPS – If you haven’t already done so, do sign up to the mailing list and always be notified when there is new content to devour!

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The photos got inside my head!

Her story really troubled me and I found myself with all sorts of questions.

BUT as I mentioned earlier, it was the effect the results had on someones view of themselves.

Why do I bang on about the importance of lighting, angles and an enjoyable experience?

NEWS – Watch this space!

Personal branding and being visible in your business – what does it mean for you?

It’s is really important to get yourself visible for your audience, but what if you just don’t feel comfortable doing this?

But you can do so much more with it.

Find your stories

I’ve been photographing Kim both personally and professionally since 2012.

You don’t need to struggle!

What comes first to make a change or feel we are moving forward in our lives?

So what happens first?

Well yes, anyone of these things may be right for different people.

People feel out of control.

You could feel trapped between a rock and a hard place.

Perhaps you have more control than you think.

I want to change how I feel.

Have you ever had your photograph de-constructed?

Well why would you… unless you don’t like what you see?

It’s all about a good conversation.

Equate this to taking a photograph:

Person being photographed:

Photographer:

Let’s add another consideration…

Do you buy into a particular fashion trend?

Clothes:

Valuable guidance

Makeup:

Cosmetic enhancements:

Fashions change!

How I want others to see me

This leads me onto that word ‘perfect’.

Social media, advertising and our self-esteem.

Powerful influences, invisible by their constant visibility!

What’s this got to do with photography and getting in front of a camera?

Is all advertising and social media bad?

This is what I often observe:

What’s the damaging end result in amongst all this, if the above list works?

At this point I’d like to share a very relevant and current You Tube video from Dove:

Remember it is you and you alone who are in charge of your life.

Do you want to be in charge, or be influenced?

Why does it take me so many attempts to get a good selfie? Pro camera v phone camera – what’s the difference?

The following two images were taken in the same spot, same angle, minutes apart, very similar ratio crop, no retouching:

I promised I wouldn’t get technical … but these are all technical issues and if you want to know more on that, please get in touch.

The following two images were again taken in the same spot, same angle, minutes apart, very similar ratio crop, no retouching:

The following two images are a little older, both taken with a phone camera, a little further away from the lens.

What’s this comparison got to do with how we see ourselves?

Pro camera v phone camera – what’s the difference?

Is judgement human nature or a choice?

Sticks and stones can break my bones but words will never hurt me… or do they …? Cue the suit of armour!

Let’s look at what judgement or, to judge means.

To change this in ourselves, we first need to understand why we do it.

How do we deal with judgement and what can we do about it?

There is strength and power in knowing when to stay silent and when to respond.

Being stronger to deal with judgement starts with ourselves.

A date for your diaries 🙂 – this blog ties in perfectly with the event.

Does the culture and society we live in affect our attitude towards being photographed?

But what’s all this got to do with getting in front of a camera?

Now we are getting closer to the point…

But somewhere in the world there are children who live without access to clean water. Have nothing more than the clothes they stand in, let alone a TV or a mobile phone.

Somewhere in the world all these things have been and are considered beautiful and attractive:

Nowadays, we have ‘trendsetters’ and ‘influencers’ on platforms like Instagram and TikTok.

The pandemic has highlighted our need to take care of our mental health…

*******

You can change anything in an image now using Photoshop and airbrushing.

Are you aware of just how much can be changed and its effect on how we see ourselves?

Where has all this come from???

However, technology develops at a great pace.

BUT Christmas is round the corner, so let’s finish this blog with some positive tips.

Tip 1 – Don’t stand and wait to be positioned. Whether on your own or in a group, it’s unlikely to happen! Position yourself at an angle that is comfortable for you and watch the person with the camera at all times!

Tip 2 – Be yourself, and in the moment. Not all successful photographs have to be looking to camera.

Tip 3 – Get the person in charge of their camera, to give you some idea of when they are taking the photograph! You can do this too when capturing others.

Tip 4 – Don’t let others make you feel awkward or bad if you politely decline to be in a photograph. They are not in your shoes or understand how you feel.

Tip 5 – Typical example of what can happen when people are just not ready … and seconds later when they are. Give people a chance to be at ease and smiling.