The Trauma of Being Photographed

Many individuals experience significant discomfort when having their photos taken, often rooted in childhood memories of forced poses and unnatural smiles. This experience can lead to a lifelong aversion to photography, where adults find themselves feeling awkward and unconfident in front of the camera despite their accomplishments. David Suh, a portrait photographer, notes that this insecurity stems from a cultural expectation of perfection, resulting in people internalizing their discomfort. To address this, he emphasizes creating a safe and relaxed environment, allowing clients to reconnect with their authentic selves during photo sessions.