How Photography Can Heal: An Interview with Tanya Beloved on the Transformative Power of the Lens
In an era where wellness encompasses not only physical fitness but also emotional balance, new forms of therapy are gaining attention. One of them is photography — not just as art, but as a therapeutic tool. At the intersection of creativity and mental health stands Tanya Beloved, a distinguished family and portrait photographer whose work has been featured in Forbes, USA Today, NY Weekly, and exhibited internationally in Be Art New York, Be Art Los Angeles, and WINZAVOD Center for Contemporary Art in Moscow.
Over the past 15 years, Tanya has photographed more than 200 families annually, built one of Southern California’s most trusted photography practices, and become a mentor to dozens of young artists. A two-time winner of the Best of Russia national photography contest and a member of the Professional Photographers of America, Tanya is known for capturing moments that heal, connect, and empower.
We spoke to Tanya about how photography can influence mental health, especially for women and families, and why the experience behind the camera might be just as important as the photo itself.
Dr. Julianne Brooks: Tanya, you’ve worked with hundreds of families and individuals across different countries. Can photography really support mental and emotional well-being?
Tanya Beloved: Absolutely. I’ve seen it again and again in my practice. Many of my clients, especially women, come to a session with emotional baggage — whether it’s related to body image, identity after motherhood, grief, or burnout. The act of being photographed in a safe, non-judgmental space often becomes a turning point. It’s not about looking “perfect” — it’s about being seen, accepted, and celebrated as you are. That alone can be profoundly healing.
Dr. Brooks: What are some psychological effects you’ve noticed during or after photo sessions?
Tanya: People begin to reclaim parts of themselves they forgot or were taught to hide. I’ve had women cry — not from sadness, but from relief. One client told me, “I didn’t recognize myself — in the best way.” They see beauty, strength, softness — not the flaws they fixate on. That’s powerful. And it stays with them. Many display their portraits at home or use them as reminders during challenging times. It becomes a symbol of worth and resilience.
Dr. Brooks: You mention creating a “safe space.” Can you share more about that?
Tanya: Over time, I’ve developed a method where people feel emotionally secure from the first moment. I don’t just shoot — I connect. I talk to my clients beforehand, ask how they’re feeling, what story they want to tell. During the session, we slow down. There’s no pressure to perform. I let emotions unfold naturally — laughter, tenderness, even vulnerability. That’s when the most authentic images emerge. I always say: I’m not taking your photo; I’m witnessing your moment.
Dr. Brooks: How does this impact families or children?
Tanya: For families, photography creates memory anchors — moments that unite them emotionally. In children, it boosts confidence. I’ve photographed kids with autism, with anxiety, with shyness. When they see their photos — joyful, playful, free — they light up. I also work with parents to remind them: this moment matters. You’re doing great. These images can support bonding, improve mood, and even reduce parental stress. There’s science behind visual memory and emotional regulation, and I see it every day.
Dr. Brooks: You’ve created a community of photographers in California. Why was that important to you?
Tanya: Healing isn’t just individual — it’s collective. I saw how competitive the industry was and wanted to change that. So I brought photographers together in Orange County, Los Angeles, San Diego — we share knowledge, support each other, even collaborate. It’s become a space of growth and empathy. I truly believe that when artists uplift one another, the quality of the work — and the well-being of the community — improves for everyone.
Dr. Brooks: What advice would you give to someone seeking a more healing experience with photography — whether as a client or a photographer?
Tanya: Slow down. Breathe. Focus on connection, not perfection. Whether you’re behind or in front of the lens, ask: “What emotion am I inviting?” Let it be real. Also — print your photos! Hold them. Frame them. Surround yourself with your story. It’s a reminder that your life, your family, your presence — they matter. That reminder can be the first step in a healthier self-image and emotional recovery.
In a world saturated with digital images, Tanya Beloved reminds us that photography is more than pixels — it’s presence. Her work serves as a quiet revolution in how we see ourselves and others, revealing that healing sometimes begins with simply being seen.
