To me, selfies are the ultimate tool in self love, courageous self expression and self confidence. And here is why:
Says Erin Tatum in everyday feminism:
''We’re conditioned to believe that external validation is a necessary substitute for self-confidence. Furthermore, having any positivity toward yourself is deeply stigmatized, policed by accusations of narcissism and superficiality.
The real anxiety with women and selfies is that selfies might provide them with the means to create their own positive image of themselves, thereby severely diluting the impact of outside opinion.
If your confidence comes from within, you can’t be controlled as easily.
While there are people who claim that the selfie is little more than a desperate cry for attention, the alternative of girls using selfies as an expression of independence is far more threatening.
To the outside observer, it can be difficult to understand the point of a selfie. Selfies are usually a very spur-of-the moment type of thing that aren’t meant to commemorate any particular special occasion.
People start to wonder why you’re taking so many pictures without any discernible sentimental value. More often than not, those who take selfies are labeled attention-seekers.
Ultimately, selfies don’t have to be about likes or comments. Sure, everyone enjoys a bit of admiration, but it’s also about your relationship with yourself.
You don’t have to apologize for noticing yourself. Drink yourself in. Celebrate yourself. Never feel guilty for announcing your presence. You deserve to fill up space.
I love taking selfies because there’s no pressure. You’re by yourself or with friends and you can take as few or as many as you like.
They are an instant confidence boost in almost any situation. Headed to work? Selfie. Did your makeup perfectly? Selfie. Procrastinating something? Selfie.
Selfies challenge the idea that you need a justification to be seen. You’re announcing that you exist in the world and are going about your day.
Strategic selfies can also change the way you perceive yourself, both literally and metaphorically. Various effects like lighting, angles, and filters can turn your selfie into a work of art.
To me, taking a selfie is like playing dress-up.
I might put on nicer clothes or do my hair, but it’s also about the psychological benefits of working through your insecurities. I look good and I know it. Your telling me I look good is going to make me feel even better.
And who really cares if people say it’s pointless or try to bring you down with negativity? All that matters is that it makes you happy. Pleasure gives even the most frivolous things purpose.
Selfies can be radical.
Whether you’re documenting your strong hair game or just trying to pass the time, it’s your acknowledgement that you’re here and you’re pretty damn awesome.
It takes a lot of bravery to post a selfie, so you should be congratulated regardless.
Remember that it’s always okay to love yourself and feel proud of yourself. I don’t care if you stare at your reflection in the mirror for an hour, as long as you’re confident.''
She's right, you know.
Integrating self portraits into your self love routine can be a radical experience.
And here are my tips for doing so in the most awesome ways possible:
1. Lights, more lights, please
There is a reason why TV show hostesses refuse to work unless the lighting is to their perfect satisfaction, even a young and fresh and flawless face can look drab and unattractive when under no or poor lighting. My 'trademark' selfie is the elevator selfie because lights are directly above my head there and the added effect of the mirror reflecting them makes me look radiant and fresh. So experiement with natural and artificial lights from various angles and choose the most flattering. You'll be surprised!
2. Feel your way into radiance
Think of some of the happiest moments in your life. Think of the love of your life. Think of moments when you felt loved, cherished, adored. Think of your goals accomplished. Think of anything that lights up your world. Because when you do, your face is instantly transformed into that magical version of you that is irresistible and full of magnetism. Happiness has that effect. Try it out.
3. Movement adds instant oomph
Think plasticity, not rigidity. I learnt this in greek classic art class decades ago. Ancient Greek artists transformed art-sculpture and painting in particular- by adding movement to the rigid human forms so characteristic before their era and gave their creations a life-like resemblance and beauty. So dont just stand there rigidly posing for the camera, looking like some tight-assed fool, add movement. Pretend or really listen to your favorite song and dance to it. Now take that selfie!
4. Makeup-your instant magic creator
Even if you are a die-hard advocate of natural beauty you can still use this powerful tool of instant transformation. Consider make up your Sunday best for your face. You love yourself exactly the way you are, but enhancing your natural beauty now and then is fun way of expressing yourself and transforming yourself into a work of art.
5. It's all a numbers game, baby
In the age of digitalised everything , you'd be a fool not to use this to your advantage. Take hundreds of pics at one go. Experiment with different angles, expressions, movements. Then pick the most flattering. It's that simple.
So go make a work of art out of your self portrait.Remember, Rembrand did a lot of self portraits before he became a celebrated artist, so heaven knows what's in store for you!
Eirini
Salam.. #keepBlogWalking
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