Why Being Photographed Can Be Healing
I talk about this a lot on my Instagram, but exactly why is this a healing experience and not a vanity moment? Let’s get deeper.
During a photoshoot there is a lot going on, not just logistically.. but emotionally.
You’re in front of a stranger who is holding up this camera and suddenly you’re being encouraged to be yourself. Easier said than done!
So what’s happening here? You might be quietly freaking out a little, feeling stage fright, suddenly unsure what to do with your hands, your body, maybe even questioning why you said yes in the first place. This isn’t something we’re naturally taught to do, so you’re not expected to just know how to be in front of a camera.
That’s where I come in. I guide you through it so we can capture your beauty in a way that feels true to you. Because it looks different for everyone.
This is healing because you’re finally being encouraged to be seen, to take up space, to witness how you feel in moments of discomfort, and to be celebrated for doing so through seeing yourself differently (and me cheering you on!)
You create a different perspective towards yourself.
Yes there may be images where you criticise yourself, but you’ll be surprised how often there are more images that leave you speechless. Ones you fall in love with at first glance, and others that you love more over time.
You’re being seen by another woman after all, I know what goes through our minds.. and I’ve been doing this for such a long time, with so many body types and age groups, that I know how to listen and hear your concerns whilst also showing you the beauty you’re not seeing.
During the process of a shoot, you begin to separate your self-image from your inner truth.
You listen to yourself internally, because you can’t see yourself, and you’re probably being quite self aware through it. Your senses are heightened because we’re in nature, yet you’re being directed and encouraged every moment of the way. Instead of self-criticism, you’re navigating self-recognition.
A photoshoot will invite you back into your body, your expression, your energy.
So often our minds are always on, overly stimulated we are further away from our bodies more than ever. Not only do we experience all the above, but a photoshoot offers that gift of connecting into how you move your body, how you express it, what limitations are coming up, how rigid you are in your body. When does your body speak rather than the mind? This space is a great practice to be in the body.
It builds trust in being visible without needing to be perfect.
This one is one I know well. I did my own photoshoot with my partner (who isn’t a photographer) and I had to let go which felt so difficult. You can read that story here.
Leaning into trust is a muscle that we get comfortable with over time. As the shoot progresses the more you’re accustomed to what we’re doing. You’re trusting in yourself, you’re comfortable in the environment, and realise you don’t need to control anything and finally you let go. And those are the best shots.
It’s healing if you want it to be.
This is a big one. If you’re not intentional about doing a photoshoot, you may be caught off guard. Emotions stir, vulnerabilities rise and they can be overwhelming if you’re trying to be in control of the process or how you’re ‘coming across’. However if you’re open to the process without thinking you need to specifically do or be healing something in particular, that’s a good place to be too. My advise? Release expectations and enjoy the ride!
But how do you know if you’re ready for a photoshoot? You can read about that here.
