Let's Do a Selfie

It is all the rage these days, but it is nothing new... people taking photographs of themselves. The greatest difference today is that is easier to do since the creation of smartphones, digital cameras and webcams.  Unlike the past, when people used a camera that had a timer, station it on a tripod, shelf or table top. They would set the timer and then hurry to get in front of the camera before the timer would go off and the photo was taken.  Or better yet attend the fair or amusement park and go into one of those photo booths and get some black and whites done.  That will certainly make your day. 

Now days, all a person has to do is to hold their smartphone about an arm’s length or pointed at a mirror and start taking photos.  You can choose your back ground, who in it with you and location.  And those photos can be uploaded to a number of social networking services such as Facebook, Google+, Instagram, Snapchat, Tumbir, Twitter and of course this list continues to grow.   

A lot of older Americans don’t get what is behind the rise in interest in this strange phenomenon.   But I certainly can tell you, it continues to grow in popularity, especially among the 18-34 ages demographic.  My view is not along, if fact major industries, business and governments have all taken notice as well.  A number of new companies have emerged and are benefiting from use of this new technology.   

The real question is why do people take selfies?  Those psychological factors vary and would depend upon a person situation.  It could include; to get attention from as many people as possible, to get a self-esteem boost, to show off, to get a specific person’s attention, boredom, and perhaps fun.  There is meaning behind why we do it, and why it’s has become such a massive trend.  And the meaning varies including as a way to stay connected with family, interest among friends, colleagues or to capture a special moment as it happens in time.  

Today, taking a selfie is mainstream and part of our daily lives.  Its reemergence and wide spread use is changing how we think and feel about the community, world, family and ourselves.  These self-portraits of ourselves in these moments of time are also helping us to cope with others thinks as well.  But in all cases, a "selfie"captures what it sees and sometimes that it the truth.  It is time to take a real good picture with our community in the background.  Now, hold that pose... No, Duck lips please!!! What do you think?