Clicks, Celiac, and Collagen: Thriving as a Stills Photographer with Celiac Disease and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome
Hello, beautiful souls and shutterbugs! Today, we're delving into a topic close to my heart — navigating the vibrant yet demanding world of stills photography while juggling celiac disease and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS). For those of us living with these conditions, the journey is akin to walking a tightrope, balancing our passion for photography with the need to manage our health. But fear not, my fellow warriors, for this path, though winding, is rich with triumphs and breathtaking views (captured through our lenses, of course). So, grab your camera and let's embark on this journey together, sharing tips, laughs, and maybe a gluten-free snack or two along the way.
Framing the Challenge: Celiac Disease and EDS in the Field
First off, let's snapshot our companions, celiac disease and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. Celiac demands a strict gluten-free diet — no exceptions. It's like being a detective, scrutinizing labels and interrogating ingredients, all in a day's work. Then there's EDS, with its medley of symptoms, from joint hypermobility to skin that's more delicate than damn petals (I bruise like a peach).
The Gluten-Free Photographer
Navigating celiac disease on set means being prepared. Long shooting days don't always come with gluten-free-friendly options. My top tip? Pack like a pro — not just with lenses and batteries but with homemade lunch and snacks that keep you fuelled and focused. Think of your snack bag as an essential part of your photography kit. And hey, sharing your treats might just make you the set favourite (looking at you Diana, you know who you are!)
My favourite gluten-free snacks:
Bear YoYo fruit rolls
Eat Natural Protein Packed Bars
Pears / blueberries / Kiwi
Salted Almonds
Nomo chocolate if I need a sugar hit
Tortilla chips or veggie crisps
The EDS-Equipped Shooter
EDS brings its own set of challenges, especially on long shoots. Comfortable, supportive shoes become your best friend, offering a foundation as stable as your tripod. Listen to your body; frequent breaks are not a sign of weakness but of wisdom. And don't shy away from using aids like wrist braces or compression garments if they help keep your symptoms in check. Remember, the best photographers adapt to their environment, and that includes adapting to our bodies' needs.
I have hyper-mobility worse in my neck, ribs and hips. Because of this I try and do pilates twice a week minimum. I also make sure I use a wrist strap rather than a neck strap for my camera. I used to shy away from taking any pain relief, no idea why, I now use it as I need it. Also, tiger balm! What a revelation that was.
Lighting the Way: Tips for Thriving on Set
1. Communication is Key
Don't hesitate to communicate your needs with your team or clients. A simple heads-up about your dietary restrictions ensures you won't be left hungry during meal breaks. As for EDS, understanding and supportive colleagues can make a world of difference in managing on-set demands.
2. Pre-Planning Your Shoot
Scout your locations with accessibility in mind. Knowing the terrain and facilities can help you plan for comfortable shooting positions and rest areas. It also allows you to identify potential challenges and come up with solutions ahead of time.
3. Embrace Your Unique Perspective
Living with celiac disease and EDS has given me a unique perspective, not just in life but in my photography. It's taught me to see beauty in resilience and to capture moments of strength and vulnerability. Let your experiences colour your work; it's what sets you apart.
4. Build a Supportive Network
Connect with fellow photographers and creatives who share your journey. Social media groups and forums can be great places to exchange tips, find support, and even collaborate on projects that accommodate your needs.
5. Celebrate Your Wins
Every shoot you complete, every challenge you overcome, is a victory. Celebrate these moments. Your journey is about more than just managing conditions; it's about the art you create and the stories you tell through your lens.
The Closing Shot
Living and working with celiac disease and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome is an adventure, full of unexpected twists and turns. But it's also a journey of growth, creativity, and resilience. As stills photographers, we have the power to frame our challenges not as obstacles but as part of our unique story. So, here's to us — the gluten-free, hypermobile, unstoppable creatives, turning our trials into art, one click at a time. Keep shooting, keep thriving, and never forget that your perspective is as unique and valuable as the images you capture.
