I Hate Being Photographed: Let’s Talk About That (and How to Stop the Performance Act)
If you've ever said "I hate being photographed," congratulations, you’re human! Seriously, I doubt that there are any statistics on the matter but I would be confident in saying that 99% of human beings feel somewhat uncomfortable with a camera pointed at them.
I’m Cat, a Montreal-based brand portrait & headshot photographer who loves helping business owners overcome the fear of showing up.
“I’m not photogenic.” I hear this phrase all the time from thoughtful, talented entrepreneurs and creatives who do amazing work, yet feel a very real and paralyzing fear the second a camera appears.
So, let’s unpack that, shall we? Because hating photos isn't about vanity, it’s about vulnerability. And it’s completely normal. Here are a few thoughts to chew on before you say it next time.
That’s me!
1. It’s Not Your Fault (Blame the System)
If you’ve had awkward photo experiences in the past (which you probably did), that discomfort doesn’t just vanish.
Who hasn’t been awkwardly placed by a stranger as a child for a rushed school photo, knowing that your parents were desperately hoping for that one GREAT photo of you? Or been asked to “just smile” for a professional headshot, wanting to look effortlessly powerful? Maybe you’ve hired someone in the past who pointed a camera at your face, asking you to “act natural.” (There’s nothing natural about that setup, Karen.)
These moments condition us to associate photography with pressure and performance, not presence. So it’s only normal to feel tight inside when thinking about having our picture taken, especially when we want to use these pictures to showcase how awesome we are (we really are!!!).
Most of us never had the opportunity to feel comfortable in front of a lens. To have someone make us feel comfortable, give us clear direction and laugh off the cross-eyed pictures with. To end up with photos that we actually like and that feel like us.
So if you're someone who gets a knot in your stomach before a shoot, the problem isn’t you. It’s the system that made you feel you had to perform instead of just be, with a bit of help.
2. You Deserve to Be Seen As You Truly Are
There is a bit of unlearning to do here, but let’s just put it this way: YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL. The thought that you hate having your photo taken is a byproduct of your experience and not the absolute reality of photoshoots. Think about it. Is there ONE picture you like of yourself in this world? Let that be proof that ending up with pictures you like is possible.
We usually like pictures of ourselves that were taken in moments when we felt comfortable, and associate the picture with this feeling. And when you feel comfortable, a.k.a you feel like yourself, you show up on camera as the real you. The human behind whatever it is that you do. And that’s the energy we need to put forward for your audience, clients and collaborators to see. The ones that really connect with your brand and want to support you.
When you allow yourself to be photographed just as you are (thoughtful, passionate, maybe even a little camera-shy!), you’re showing up with authenticity. And that’s what builds real trust and resonance online.
3. My Photography Approach is Built for Normal People
When I start working with someone, at no point do I expect them to know where and how to stand, to pose without help or to look effortlessly giggly/confident/approachable.
I know that for most of us, being in front of a camera feels like standing naked in front of a crowd.
That’s exactly why my process is built the way it is. By connecting before the shoot, exploring your objectives with care and designing the whole session together, we both show up knowing the kind of energy we want to create. I leave nothing up to guessing, other than the kind of magic that will naturally unfold.
Before a session, I make sure we both understand, at the very least:
What you need the photo(s) for
What kind of energy you want to bring forward
Some poses that you feel inspired by
The type of clothing that might be suitable for that
During the session, I will calmly guide you through everything, and all you have to do is show up and let yourself ease into the experience. Photography doesn’t have to feel stiff or performative. It can be collaborative, empowering, even fun (yes, really!).
4. How My Actual Clients Really Feel
One of my favorite parts of this work is seeing someone relax in a context that they didn’t expect to have fun in. There is something liberating about finally feeling comfortable being seen.
Clients often start the process feeling a bit anxious, and end up sharing how they enjoyed it and like themselves in the photos. To me, this is the fuel that keeps me going:
“I am not someone who enjoys having their photo taken, I don't tend to love seeing pictures of myself, but I did really enjoy the way she captured me (...). It was authentic and artistic. Thank you Cat!!!” - Ashley, Montreal professional
“Cat was an absolute joy to work with. She has the ability to make people feel at ease: her leadership, humour and charisma help capture graceful, authentic shots, even for the most camera-shy. The final photos truly felt like me. I highly recommend her!” - Pauline, Montreal urban planning consultant
I’m so grateful for every client that trusts me with their photos. These testimonials show that with the right approach, even the most camera-shy people can walk away with images they’re proud to share.
Final Thoughts
Being photographed doesn’t have to mean pretending to be super confident and trying to convince the world (and your photographer) that you are. It’s not about being “photogenic”, it’s about trusting the person holding the camera and letting yourself be seen.
So if you’ve been avoiding the camera, I see you. You don’t need to change who you are, you just need a photographer who gets it.
And if you're ready to feel more at ease in front of the lens, I’d love to help guide you there.
FAQ
Q: I never like photos of myself. What if I still don’t like these?
A: Totally valid fear. But when you feel more relaxed and seen, your photos reflect that. Most clients are shocked (in the best way) by how much they love their images when the process feels safe and supportive. If you don’t like any of your photos, I will literally reimburse you.
Q: I don't know how to pose. Will you help?
A: Absolutely. You’ll never be left to “figure it out.” I’ll gently guide you with easy, natural prompts so nothing feels stiff.
Q: What if I feel awkward during the shoot?
A: That’s normal, and actually expected. The good news is, awkwardness fades quickly with the right guidance and energy. Most clients start to relax within the first 10 minutes.
Q: Do you offer wardrobe advice?
A: Yes! I’ll send over a prep guide with outfit tips based on your brand vibe and color palette. We’ll review outfit choices together before the session too.
Q: How long does the session take?
A: Base sessions last between 60-90 minutes, with enough time for outfit changes. More extensive sessions can last a full day, with different locations if needed.
