Body Neutral Responses for Photographers

Let’s face it, body image can be a touchy, complicated subject. So let’s talk about it!

Before becoming a full-time photographer, I worked as a registered dietitian, specializing in eating disorders and body image work. I was hearing and having conversations around body image with people every day, regardless of what role I was in: dietitian or photographer.

And here’s the thing. The way we respond to clients’ comments about their bodies has an incredible impact–not only on them but also on the kinds of shifts we need to make in our culture.

As photographers, we have a huge impact on our clients. What people remember the most about their photoshoot is the experience you provide and how you make them feel throughout the entire process. And photos are a physical reminder of how they felt during the shoot. If they felt uncomfortable or awkward during the photoshoot, chances are those photos will be tainted. 

There’s a good chance you’ve had a client make a negative comment about their body during a photoshoot. Providing blanket statements like, “aww, but you’re so pretty!” might be an automatic response, but it’s unlikely to truly support your client. While these comments are said out of the goodness of your heart, they often come across as invalidating and can accidentally feed into the idea that there is a “right” and a “wrong” way to look and exist in our bodies.

As photographers, I believe we should strive to make body neutral comments. Body neutrality is a mindset that emphasizes less focus on appearance and more focus on what the body can do (rather than how it looks!). Body neutrality encourages acceptance of the body as it is, without the need for constant positive or negative judgment.

Let’s look at how the topic of body image might pop up in a photoshoot:

Client: “Make sure I don’t look fat in this pose.” 

Photographer’s Response: “Your body is doing exactly what it’s meant to do in this pose. Now, let’s see that energy of yours!”

Here’s why: This response moves the focus away from a preconceived idea of what a body should look like and refocuses the attention on the client–not their body!

Ok, here’s another one:

Client: “I hate my double chin.”

Photographer’s Response: “Everyone’s features shift when they move. Let’s try a different angle to highlight what you love.”

Here’s why: The ultimate goal as a photographer is for your client to adore their photos. This response ensures that you capture your client as they want to be photographed, without making any unhelpful comments about their body!

For more examples like this, make sure to download Supporting Your Clients: Body Neutral Responses for Photographers! I created this guide to help you learn how to give your clients a positive, body neutral photoshoot experience that they’ll cherish.

Our society’s obsession with an “idealistic” body image runs deep. I believe it is our duty as photographers to help make a shift in the culture towards body neutrality. It isn’t easy, and it takes practice, but the important things usually do! If you want to learn more about body neutrality in order to help your clients–or yourself!–I highly recommend the book Body Talk by Katie Sturino. It’s the perfect combination of real talk, humor, and empathy mixed with actionable exercises to help you improve how you think and feel about your body. Oh, and it’s super colorful and actually enjoyable to read!

Do you already focus on body neutrality during your shoots? Have photographers said things to you during a shoot that have helped you feel confident and comfortable? I want this guide to grow, so I would love for you to spam my inbox or comment below with things to add to this guide!