The aim of study was to investigate whether the process of making photo stories in health care (the photo instrument) matches with requirements of self-motivation in self-management programs. Although training and advice in self-management were absent, the photo instrument shared important elements with self-management: the call upon responsibility, the focus on concrete (visual) details of the life world, and the sharpened awareness of choices to make. Expressing one's views, prolonged reflection, a dialogue, and sharing of the photo stories are components that can be considered building stones for commitment to self-representation of an illness story and a life beyond illness.