Say cheese!
This is Sandra Tsing Loh with the Loh Down on Science, saying, taking pictures has never FELT this good!
Breakfast selfie, outfit selfie… They are EVERYWHERE! Selfies are a popular way to capture and share moments. But could they also have a psychological component?
Richard Eibach from the University of Waterloo and his team wondered.
Four hundred participants were asked to choose between taking a selfie or a picture of their surroundings. For each scenario, participants were asked to rate the experience and the greater meaning behind it.
Results? Photos of scenery were related to a greater emphasis on the importance of the event. Like taking a picture of a monument! In contrast, selfies were associated with capturing the experience itself: the FEELINGS.
Different types of photos hide specific meanings behind them. Selfies are not just a new trend, but a new way of expression.
Neat, add a couple filters and, bamo! You’re feeling better already! Just call it SELFIE CARE!
Reference:
Niese, Z. A., Libby, L. K., & Eibach, R. P. (2023). Picturing your life: The role of Imagery Perspective in personal photos. Social Psychological and Personality Science, 194855062311630. https://doi.org/10.1177/19485506231163012