Photography Phobia: An Intimate Look into Personal Fears and Public Transportation Fears

Photography, for some, is a simple task, but for others, it triggers a deep-seated fear. In this article, we explore the personal journey of an individual, diving into both their photography phobia and their unique public transportation fears, particularly related to jury duty. Let's delve deeper into what drives these fears and how they manifest in different scenarios.

Photography Phobia

When asked about having any photo phobias, I must admit that I don't have any significant phobias. However, I do struggle with being uncomfortable and not liking having my picture taken. Despite not believing in the existence of such a fear, the feeling still lingers, and it is a truth I must acknowledge. I find it difficult to get comfortable, and the thought of being captured by a lens is not an enjoyable experience for me.

The question often arises: why do some people not like having their picture taken? Some experts suggest that it's related to a fear of self-presentation and a discomfort with vulnerability. It seems like a Mr. Handsome artificial construct, a persona that doesn't align with the authentic self. Hence, the fear of being photographed becomes a manifestation of this underlying vulnerability.

Photography and Public Transportation Phobia

My relationship with photography extends beyond the lens and captures a broader range of fears, including a peculiar propensity to get called for jury duty. This happens for both criminal and civil court cases, as well as federal court. Traveling to these courthouses involves riding the train, a form of public transportation that has given rise to a series of phobias.

Based on my experiences and those of others, I've encountered a few unsettling images on the subway, the London Tube, and various other forms of public transportation. These visual depictions have created a sense of unease, leading me to develop a series of fears that I attempt to navigate with a mix of courage and caution.

Jury Duty and Public Transportation Phobia: A Daily Struggle

Commuting to court regularly in downtown Pittsburgh is a challenging task. The city's maze-like streets coupled with the daunting task of finding parking can be overwhelming. As a result, I opted to use the train, which, while incredibly convenient, often leads to a series of unwelcome encounters.

However, it's not just the train that has led to these fears. Visual representations of what others experience on the subway have created a sense of terror in my mind. I find myself questioning the safety of my journeys, and the absurdity of it all is not lost on me. These images, while sometimes amusing to others, have left an indelible mark on my psyche, making each journey a calculated risk.

Conclusion

While I may have a photography phobia in a specific sense, it is predominantly about discomfort rather than a debilitating fear. The issue largely stems from a personal aversion to self-presentation and the public scrutiny that comes with being photographed.

Moreover, my experiences with public transportation, specifically the train, serve as a metaphor for these fears. However, it is important to recognize that these fears are not based on any real danger but are rather a manifestation of my own insecurities. Overcoming these phobias requires a conscious effort to understand and address the root cause of my anxiety.