Overthinking is sneaky.

It often disguises itself as being “responsible,” “prepared,” or “just wanting to make the right decision.” But there’s a point where research stops helping us move forward — and starts keeping us stuck.

I’ve been thinking about this a lot lately, both in my own life and while watching friends (and even my kids) navigate decisions. And I realized something important:

There’s a difference between doing your due diligence and overthinking your way into inaction.

When Research Turns Into Inaction

Research is important. Necessary, even.

But I think it’s worth asking yourself this question when you’re faced with a decision:

Is the information I’m gathering helping me move forward — or is it keeping me from taking action?

Because sometimes we keep researching, not because we need more information…
but because making the decision feels uncomfortable.

A classic example:
You know you need to switch insurance because your rates went up. You get quotes. Some are better. Some feel right. But instead of choosing one, you keep gathering more quotes, thinking maybe there’s a better option out there — and suddenly, weeks pass and nothing changes.

At that point, research isn’t helping anymore. It’s just delaying the decision.

And often, it looks a lot like procrastination.

Why We Get Stuck

Information is easier to access than ever, which makes it incredibly tempting to stay in “learning mode.” But when we pause and look deeper, the hesitation usually isn’t about the information at all.

It’s often tied to:

• A past bad experience

• Anxiety about making the “wrong” choice

• Fear of wasting money or time

• Not feeling supported in the decision

• Wanting certainty where there really isn’t any

I see this all the time — even outside of photography.

My husband owns a maintenance business, and we regularly hear stories from people who had bad experiences with contractors. Many of those situations could have been avoided with some research — real recommendations, references, and asking the right questions.

So yes, research matters.

But there’s also the opposite problem:
People who research endlessly and never move forward because they’re afraid to commit.

How This Shows Up in Photography (More Than You Think)

This same pattern shows up all the time with photography clients — especially families and parents.

I see it when people:

• Overthink what everyone should wear

• Worry endlessly about kids “behaving”

• Debate timing, seasons, locations, and weather

• Go back and forth on whether now is the right time

• Sit on emails or booking links for weeks because they’re unsure

And I get it. Photos feel important — because they are important.

But here’s the truth:
Most of the stress happens before the session ever takes place.

Once people actually book and show up, they almost always say some version of:

“I don’t know why I stressed so much about this.”

Overthinking steals energy from something that’s meant to feel meaningful, simple, and even enjoyable.

Moving Forward Doesn’t Mean Being Reckless

This isn’t about rushing decisions or skipping research altogether.

It’s about noticing when:

• You already have enough information

• You’re using research to avoid discomfort

• The next step isn’t more information — it’s support, reassurance, or a conversation

Sometimes the thing that helps you move forward isn’t another Google search — it’s talking it through with someone who knows the process.

A Gentle Nudge Forward

If there’s a decision sitting on your plate right now — whether it’s related to photos, business, family, or life — it might be worth asking:

• What am I actually waiting for?

• Do I need more information… or do I need reassurance?

• What would moving forward look like if I didn’t need it to be perfect?

Because moving forward — even imperfectly — is usually what gets us closer to the life, memories, and goals we want.

And when it comes to photography, I’ll say this with confidence:
You don’t need to have everything figured out to take the next step. That’s part of what I’m here for.

If you’ve been thinking about booking a session but feel stuck in the “what ifs,” consider this your permission to stop overthinking it. You don’t need to have every detail figured out before reaching out. I’m always happy to talk through timing, locations, outfits, and expectations so you can feel confident taking the next step.

A lot of this comes from not knowing what to expect or which session option fits best — and that’s something I help guide people through when they’re choosing between different types of sessions.