A fair number of writers come through the studio for an author photo — the one that goes on the book jacket, the byline, the festival programme — and a surprising number of them say something like “I'm not really a writer, I've only had one thing published.” That feeling has a name, and it turns up in the way people hold themselves in front of a lens as much as in the way they talk about their work.
The impact of imposter syndrome on writers
Writers, particularly newcomers, can be especially vulnerable to imposter syndrome. The perception that only published authors are considered “real” writers can intensify feelings of self-doubt. Even established authors like Maya Angelou have spoken about their own struggles with it, which shows that success and recognition do not necessarily make these feelings go away.
The effects of imposter syndrome on writers
Imposter syndrome can hinder a writer’s progress and creativity in several ways:
- Constant self-critique. Writers experiencing imposter syndrome tend to excessively criticise their work, leading to over-editing and a reluctance to share their writing.
- Excessive self-editing. The fear of being exposed as an imposter may lead writers to spend far too long editing, which stops projects ever being finished.
- Procrastination. The fear of not meeting expectations, or of being discovered as a fraud, can result in avoidance of writing altogether.
These effects can prevent writers from fully embracing their craft and inhibit their growth as storytellers.
Practical steps to overcome imposter syndrome
While imposter syndrome may never fully disappear, there are strategies writers can use to manage it. Here are some practical steps:
1. Embrace your identity as a writer
You don’t need external validation to consider yourself a writer. Regardless of publication status, if you write, you are a writer. Shed the label of “aspiring writer” and fully embrace your identity as a writer.
2. Reflect on your progress
Take a moment to review your body of work and acknowledge how far you’ve come. Whether you’ve been writing for years or just started, observing your growth and improvement can provide reassurance that you are not a fraud.
3. Connect with other writers
Reach out to fellow writers and share your feelings of self-doubt. Discussing your fears with others who have experienced similar struggles can provide a sense of relief and offer new perspectives.
4. Immerse yourself in positive feedback
Focus on the positive feedback you have received for your writing. Celebrate your accomplishments, whether it’s winning a contest or receiving praise from readers. Remind yourself of your abilities and the value your writing brings to others.
5. Develop resilience to negative feedback
Criticism is part of being a writer. Develop a thick skin and understand that not everyone will appreciate your work (you can’t win everybody, and that is okay). Constructive feedback can help you improve, but don’t let negative comments discourage you from pursuing your passion.
6. Give yourself permission to learn and grow
Acknowledge that growth as a writer takes time and practice. Give yourself permission to make mistakes and learn from them. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and no writer starts as a master. Embrace the journey and allow yourself to improve.
7. Keep writing
Above all, don’t let imposter syndrome stop you from writing. The more you write, the better you become. Embrace the process and continue honing your skills. Writing consistently is the key to overcoming self-doubt and becoming a more confident writer.
A note on author photos
The moment imposter syndrome tends to surface most visibly for writers is the author photo. A publisher asks for one, a festival needs one, a byline wants one, and suddenly you have to look like someone who is allowed to be on a book jacket. The people who arrive at the studio most nervous are nearly always the ones who have just had their first thing accepted.
What helps is the same thing that helps with the writing: doing it rather than dreading it, with someone directing. We shoot tethered, so you see each frame on a big screen a second after it is taken, and most people relax the moment they see they look like themselves rather than the version they were bracing for. You don’t need to arrive knowing how to pose. That part is our job. Headshot sessions start at £95, and our guide to what good portraits actually need covers the difference between a jacket photo and a LinkedIn one.
Conclusion
Imposter syndrome is a common struggle for writers, but it doesn’t have to define your writing journey. Embrace your identity as a writer, reflect on your progress, and connect with fellow writers for support. Focus on positive feedback, develop resilience to criticism, and give yourself permission to learn and grow. Most importantly, keep writing and believe in your abilities. Overcoming imposter syndrome is a continuous process, but with perseverance, you can become a more confident and accomplished writer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is imposter syndrome common among writers?
Very, and it tends to get louder at exactly the points where things go well — a first acceptance, a first review, a first festival slot. That timing is worth noticing: it usually means progress, not fraud.
Should I see someone about it?
If it is affecting your work, your sleep or your relationships, yes — a GP, a therapist or a mentor who has been through it. This article is general encouragement, not professional advice.
What should an author photo look like?
Like you on a good day, in something you would actually wear, with light that flatters rather than flattens. Publishers generally want a clean, simple portrait they can crop square or tall. The £150 Quick-Fire session covers two or three looks in 40 minutes, which is enough for a jacket photo and a byline crop.
Where is the studio and how do I book?
Dock Street Studio, Unit 9, 30–38 Dock Street, Leeds LS10 1JF — central Leeds near Leeds Dock, a short walk from the train station, with parking on site. Book online or call to talk it through first.
Book an author portrait in Leeds
If the thing standing between you and sending the manuscript off is not having a photo you can bear to attach, that one is fixable in an afternoon. Book online, email hello@dockstreetstudioleeds.co.uk, or call 0113 4400102.
Written by Mark Wheelwright
Commercial photographer & studio owner, Leeds | ISO Photographic Ltd
Dock Street Studio, Unit 9, 30–38 Dock Street, Leeds LS10 1JF
18+ years' experience | 900+ projects | 300+ five-star reviews | 1M+ shutter count
dockstreetstudioleeds.co.uk
Shot, written and built by the Dock Street team
Every guide on this blog comes from the team at Dock Street Studio — Mark behind the camera with 18+ years' experience, Nicole on styling and lighting, Beya on video and bookings and Austin keeping the site fast and findable. If you'd rather have us do it than read about it, book a session or explore our photography services in Leeds.