Practical confidence tips for photographers who doubt themselves — from someone who’s been there.
by Hannah Brooke, Yorkshire wedding & brand photographer.
Self-sabotage is real — especially in creative businesses like photography where comparison culture is everywhere. It’s too easy to wake up scrolling Instagram, feel overwhelmed, and suddenly wonder “Why am I even bothering with this business?!” But here’s the truth: almost every photographer you admire has wrestled with the same thoughts. And they don’t define your worth, your style, or your success.
Here are 10 self-sabotaging thoughts you’ve probably had, plus gentle, practical ways to shift your mindset — for good.
1. EVERYONE is doing better than me.
1. “Everyone is doing better than me.”
Why this happens: Social media portraits of success make it feel like everyone is ahead.
Mindset shift: You’re comparing your behind-the-scenes to someone else’s highlights. Track your own progress privately, and celebrate real wins (bookings, enquiries, client praise). Growth isn’t linear — it’s personal.
2. I got one negative comment — I’m doomed.
Why it stings: Criticism hits the heart of our creative ego.
Mindset shift: One comment doesn’t cancel decades of good work. Learn what you can from honest feedback, but don’t let one voice drown out the dozens of supportive ones you’ve earned.
3. If I take time off, I’ll lose clients.
Why it feels true: You want to be dependable — and you are!
Mindset shift: Rest fuels creativity and prevents burnout. Put clear boundaries in your calendar (and on your website), and most clients will respect it — many will appreciate it.
4. I’m just not good enough.
Why this happens: Creative work is inherently vulnerable.
Mindset shift: Expertise grows with practice and experience. When self-doubt shows up, turn it into a question — “What can I learn here?” — instead of a judgement.
5. I’m too expensive.
Why this feels scary: You don’t want to lose bookings.
Mindset shift: Pricing reflects your value. When you charge what you’re worth, you attract clients who respect your work and business. Cheap rates often lead to burnout, not sustainable success.
6. My Instagram following needs to be massive.
Why it haunts you: Tools equate numbers with success.
Mindset shift: Engagement matters WAY more than followers. A smaller audience that actually interacts and books you is worth more than ten thousand silent followers.
7. If a client asks for something I don’t offer, I should just do it anyway.
Why it’s tempting: You don’t want to turn money away.
Mindset shift: When you stray from what you do well, both you and the client lose out. Stay true to your style and services — and refer out work that isn’t the right fit.
8. I need to appeal to everyone.
Why it feels urgent: More clients should mean more bookings, right?
Mindset shift: Niching your audience helps you attract the right clients — the ones who value your work and become raving fans. Trying to please everyone dilutes your brand.
9. There are SO many other photographers out there.
Why it shakes you: Saturation feels intimidating.
Mindset shift: There’s only one you. Your unique perspective, voice, and approach are your greatest assets. Instead of competing, focus on honing your style and serving your ideal clients.
10. I can’t raise my prices — what if clients find out I charged less before?
Why this scares you: Old pricing feels permanent.
Mindset shift: Your experience, skills, and service have evolved — and your pricing can too! Most past clients will see the value in your growth, and new clients simply pay what your current offerings are worth.
Final Thought
Self-sabotage isn’t a flaw — it’s a pattern born from comparison, fear, and high personal standards. The more you recognise these thoughts, the more power you take back over them. You’re building a creative business that works, not just a portfolio that looks good.
Ready to shift your mindset and own your year? 📸✨For hints and tips on running a successful photography business, come and join me on Instagram at @hannahbrookephoto.
