conquering my social anxiety
Here’s the story of conquering one of my biggest fears (filming or taking pictures in public) in order to get my dream prom photos!
From the moment my friends decided we wanted to go downtown before prom I knew I needed photos of my boyfriend and I all dressed up in the record shop. It’s been a regular date spot of ours forever and I just knew they would be so cute and so very us.
I swallowed my nerves and waltzed inside boyfriend in tow. My main motivation here was knowing that I would regret it forever if I didn’t at least try to get these photos. The worst that could happen is the owners asking us to leave or stop taking photos. Luckily they had no problem with us (even when we sat on their floor taking up space), likely because we have been regular customers.
It’s also important to note here that we were not overly drawing attention to us. People walked through our shot several times (we were propping the phone up in various spots and taking timer photos) but we didn’t say a thing. It’s important to keep in mind when doing things like this in public you are the nuisance, not the people “ruining” your shot by going about their day.
Despite the anxiety I had upon first entering the store, there were zero negative interactions while there. Many customers just continued about their shopping without batting an eye! We got many compliments and the perfect photos that I was dreaming of :)
Moral of the story is to face your fears, the payoff is likely worth it. (and I promise not everyone is staring at you :))
Social anxiety can be overwhelming, but facing it often leads to rewarding experiences. Many individuals who grapple with this fear avoid situations like public photography, worrying about how they'll be perceived. However, as my story illustrates, public spaces are not as scrutinizing as we might think. Taking photos in a public venue, like a record shop, sparked nerves but also presented an opportunity to create cherished memories with friends and loved ones. It's vital to remember that most people are preoccupied with their own lives and are unlikely to notice you. This realization can encourage those struggling with anxiety to step outside their comfort zones. Moreover, the rewards of such experiences can be exceptional. Capturing beautiful moments while embracing a favorite spot can lead to unique expressions of creativity. Instead of succumbing to anxiety, find ways to redirect that energy positively. Whether it’s reaching out to friends for support or preparing in advance, every little step counts. Facing social anxiety takes courage, but each success builds confidence. Little by little, you can conquer your fears and enrich your experiences—showing that taking risks can yield unforgettable rewards.
Oh my gosh I love these! It is giving retro vibes and your dress is grogeous