Confidence Issues?

[darker1985]

Does anyone have confidence issues with their photography, this is the main thing holding me back, I am terrified of going out and about with my camera in the fear of someone thinking negative things about me or the fear of totally messing up. I am trying to overcome this but so far I am stuck at the same level, instead of getting shots I only think about them.

Stupid, but scary, anyone else have this or am I alone on this one?

[Bluenoser]

A long time ago I was somewhat fearful, but eventually I just said the heck with it. The majority of people who see you in public are really not interested, probably will never lay eyes on you again during their lifetime, and won't give you a second thought later on.

I am at the point now where it doesn't bother me in the least and I am definitely not afraid to embarass myself in public if it means getting a good shot. Personaly, I'm the same as the public, I'm really not interested in them, will likely never see any of them again, and won't give them an after thought later in the day.


You just have to shed your inhibitions and realize it's about you, not them. Let them think what they like.

[Jim Poor]

Read Visionmongers and you'll see that we ALL have those issues from time to time.

If you don't have any anxiety at all, I'd say you don't care enough.

[SoxAddict]

My main "shyness" is with taking photos of people - strangers I mean. I'd love to be able to capture candid shots of folk out and about in everyday situations, but I'm definitely nowhere near as bold as some folk who have no problem either just going for the shot, or asking up front if they can take someone's photo. So I'm constantly held back there for sure.

When it comes to general photography otherwise though - landscapes/seascapes/architecture etc - I have minimal problems doing what I need to capture what I want.

It's tough overcoming any anxiety, no matter how small it seems to someone else. I suppose you'd just have to take very small steps to try and break through this barrier. Maybe identify a situation that causes you least anxiety & go out for half an hour and take pics in that environment. All you can do is just build-up your confidence by doing small shoots frequently and breaking out gradually into situations that are less comfortable.

Another alternative is finding a photography buddy - even if it's someone who'll just hang out with you while you're out there, doesn't have to be a fellow photographer. Sometimes just having company makes you feel less self-conscious. Another idea is to find a photography group locally that might go out in small groups to places to shoot every so often.

[milosh]

SoxAddict, that was a great post. I agree with every advice you gave here.

This is my take on this matter: look at it simply, you shouldn't be afraid of other's opinions because you're not doing anything wrong or illegal. You're just doing something you love and that shouldn't bother anyone.
Believe me, I know what it's like. People here almost run away when they see someone with a big camera.
I know that it's easier to say this than to do it, but to overcome it, probably the best advice is to take it slowly, one step at a time, just like Sox said. Have good time doing it.

[darker1985]

Guys, really appreciate the advice. It means a lot to me and I know it is something I have to come to terms with. The worst part is knowing I have to! When it comes to it though I bottle it and end up saying, I'll do it another day, that day never comes, obviously.

It's horrible allowing this small matter to bother you and stop you from doing something you love.

[candleman]

so, you're worried about what other people think..
i've been there.

i guess you just need to decide.. who are you doing this for.

i get comments aaaalll the time.
one person actually said "F**** showoff"
i was on holiday taking a picture of a monument for goodness sake!
Sure, i was a bit ticked off... i felt like commenting on her $300 Nike shoes.. but refrained.

But really.. why does it matter what a complete stranger thinks?
There are many nice people out and about too.. heck, the majority of people appologise for walking infront of my camera, many even stop and wait for me.
One guy (in a botanic garden) actually said “ooh, so sorry, ill find another way around”

but don’t let the occasional looser ruin your hobby.

i made a decision that i'm doing it for me... i dont know them.. and who really cares what they think.
when you get home and have had a nice day out, and are relaxing with drink and reviewing your work for the day.. they will be long gone.
you just need to do it for you, and have fun

[beth0b]

I know EXACTLY how you feel! What helps me is thinking about how much you are paying attention to others around you... you probably don't give THEM 2 seconds of a thought do you? They are doing the same with you, they don't care what you are doing. As I have gained confidence and actually whipped my camera out in public I have found the only people that say anything to me are fellow photographers being friendly and sharing advice, chatting casually, and I end up being glad I brought my camera out.

Try this: go somewhere you want to take pictures and just hold your camera - don't take any pictures, just walk around with the camera in your hand, on your shoulder, around your neck or whatever. That's it, just get comfortable having it out. On another day, do the same thing, but for a shorter time, and once you realize no one is looking at you, take a picture or 2, and again, you will see that no one even cares. Unless you are aggressive and in people's faces, making them mad (which you aren't), no one will give you a thought. And if someone does approach you its probably because they are curious and it'll give you a chance to share what you like with them, or they may have some tips or you could even give them some advice!

It's still easier than done I KNOW, but try just getting comfortable and taking it literally one small step at a time, the confidence will come.

[darker1985]

Again, thanks. I must admit I am more comfortable when I am out of my town, I have had moments in town where I feel comfortable doing it but I often let my mind go else where and think about what others are thinking of me. Stupid really, I need to get the hell over this and I will.

[FrankLamont]

Everyone goes through that stage.

In terms of your feelings, everyone - almost - goes through them when taking photos in public. Helps if you look old (or not young at least), and quite big. But it's a common thing now, so don't worry.

Others may be jealous, others angry - "don't take a picture of me even though I'm behind you".

Just stay clear of dangerous situations and you'll be fine.