Tag Archives: why do I hate being photographed

Individual photographs of two men and a woman - that's me you just described! - I don't like being photographed

“That’s me you’ve just described … ”

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“That’s me you’ve just described! – I don’t like being photographed”

Over the years, I’ve given many presentations and networking pitches on the subject of being photographed. Particularly a dislike of it! I’ve lost count the number of times someone has afterwards said “that’s me you’ve just described – I don’t like being photographed”

We may or may not chat further.

They may still go away thinking they: 

  • can’t
  • won’t
  • or not ready

… to change how they feel.

However, the important thing is listen to what they are saying. Then gauge whether to continue the conversation and on what level.

Many may not even realise help is available – and that knowledge will give  them choice and is a great starting point.

I’ve always said it’s an individual journey for everyone.

  • We only adjust our thoughts when we’re ready to do so – fact.
  • Or when someone shows us a way forward we didn’t realise existed.
  • It might be a subconscious shift in perception.

All these reasons are perfectly ok and normal.

Over the years, I’ve done a lot of ‘seed planting’.

For many, a few words, tips and observations have been a starting point of change – that was all they needed. I’ve never directly worked with them, but seen a positive difference in their attitude to being in front of a camera – time for me to inwardly celebrate 🙂. 

For some it’s a much longer journey of gentle support and encouragement. There’s no expectation when they may feel ready to move on.

But the best thing is, (and take heart all of you) a change in perception isn’t necessarily a deep delve into the past. Or involve talking through past issues.
It can be a lot simpler and far more enjoyable than that! 

Currently, the majority of those who come to work with me realise an avoidance of being photographed is not good for their business.

They really need new and up to date imagery. This is often what prompts them to get in touch. I’ll refer you back to a relevant earlier blog on business visibility and why it’s important – Personal Branding and being visible in your business – what does this mean for you?

Now testimonials are ALWAYS appreciated – and have shared snippets from a couple of reviews. Both are really relevant to what I’ve been referring to:

“…This was my second photo shoot with Penny, and once again, she was amazing! Over time, she’s really helped me shift how I feel about being in front of the camera. I used to dread having my photo taken and would pick apart every little detail afterward. But Penny’s supportive and professional approach has completely changed that…” Lorraine Clarke

…From the moment we started, Penny was professional, creative, and truly dedicated to capturing the best version of Kathryn and me. The photos turned out amazing. Crisp, clear, and full of personality. But more importantly, they’ve made a real impact on my business. I’ve had several new clients mention that they were drawn to my website because of the warm, smiley photos that Penny took. Their compliments have translated into actual business wins. I firmly believe that the quality of the images played a significant role…” Joanne Moss.

So next time I hear someone say – “that’s me you’ve just described – I don’t like being photographed” – I will ask (without expectation) “would you like to change that?”

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Don’t forget, keep an eye on the You Tube Channel for short videos on tips for getting in front of cameras – Penny Morgan Photography

Three images of a lady with different smiling expressions

How will you be left feeling?

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How will you be left feeling?

How we are are feeling is very important in our lives.
It’s very powerful, but also very invisible.
It’s just that … a feeling, but something VERY influential to us.

People will always remember how you left them feeling.

What’s that got to do with photography? A huge amount actually… lets look at why.

So why is how we feel, connected to photography?

For whatever reason someone might not enjoy getting in front of a camera or indeed refuse to do so, it will be connected with a feeling of some sort.

When there is a dislike of getting in front of a camera, it will be a feeling from a negative association. This could go back to any period of time. 

You might want to dip back into a blog I wrote some time ago on positive and negative associations – https://www.blog.pennymorgan.co.uk/2025/03/15/positive-and-negative-associations-being-photographed/ 

  • It could be something mild.
  • It could be something really challenging.
  • It could be about any part of you, your personality and your physical appearance.
  • There can be a variety of complex reasons, but there is a positive side! 

Because the flip side of that can be just as powerful and impactful with positive associations:

These may be harder to remember, because we have a habit of focusing on the negatives. But those happy positive occasions will be there.

What we see and feel about ourselves is very connected to what we see in photographs. It will be part of the many reasons we do and don’t like getting in front of a camera.

For many years, holistic therapists have been listening to their clients and treating them for different ailments. These will be strongly and directly associated with how that person is feeling about themselves, their ailments, their relationships and place in life.

Therefore a further connection with how we feel and our wellbeing (another connection with recent blogs!).

I simply do this via photography.

It’s one of my highest priorities in a photoshoot that people leave feeling pretty good about themselves and that they’ve even enjoyed the experience … especially when they thought they wouldn’t. It happens frequently.

Love Your Image sessions, help someone identify those negative associations. We then work to change those perceptions, which is entirely achievable. https://www.pennymorgan.co.uk/gallery-collection/Love-Your-Image/C0000LT3su8s1leA

So if there is one thing you can do today (and everyday) for yourselves and towards those you talk to, is speak kindly of yourself and of others, feel kindly towards yourself and others and make today contain more happy associations.

It’s important to feel good about what we see in ourselves … even in the tough times … and it will help you find that confidence in front of a camera. 

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