Selfie

Illustrated by Jacqueline Davis Moranti

You ever wake up, pass your full length mirror and surprise yourself by what you see? I don't mean a big pimple or an unexpected scar but an elated revelation. In a world where taking self- portraits with our smart phones is instantaneous and prominent, it's quite easy to get lost in the world of narcissistic joy... or harmless trend? However you see it, I am actually quite intimidated by the thought of it! It isn't that I'm doubtful about my appearance, it's the realization that once something is posted online, it is out there for public elation.

Photos by Lori Berkowitz

With selfies, there's no way of going back and editing it once it has been posted and there always a right and a wrong way to take them, so i've been told. Posing, tilting the angle of the camera a certain way, a subtle smile, perfect lighting, a good background are just a few of the things that need to be planned out for the perfect selfie. At least, no matter how many times you retake the photo, no one will ever know how much vanity was put into that very casual looking pose. 

I'm a perfectionist, and I think that my intimidation stems from the thought of seeming "perfect." Unfortunately, it's an innate human reaction to feel this way. To be completely honest, I'd much rather have someone else play the photographer's role, that way I can focus on everything else and not the picture taking. Lately I have also been too pre occupied to even think about portraits, although I recently walked by a mirror and thought to myself, selfie moment. It wasn't really a narcissistic thought but more of a fragment of time that I wanted to capture and record because sometimes a picture says a thousand words without the presence of words. 

I recently had the opportunity to work with acclaimed NYC boudoir photographer, Lori Berkowitz  who shoots tons of women on a daily basis. What's special about her photography is that she knows exactly how to capture the perfect "selfie," that leaves women feeling empowered with their own beauty and not having to compare themselves with others. Not really a selfie in the traditional sense but she acknowledges the elements in grasping the right light, unbiased poses, and natural beauty. Lori Berkowitz's motto, "I shoot because you're beautiful" is sincere and something that all women should feel entitled with.  This photo shoot definitely left me feeling great and as silly as it might sound, perfect is how you make it to be. 

Dear readers, I would love to hear your take on the instant gratification trend know as selfies. How would you deem them, safe or dangerous to our culture?