The History of Selfies

Selfies have become an integral part of modern culture, but they have a long and varied history. From ancient paintings to modern social media, the art of self-portraiture has evolved significantly over time. Here is a brief overview of the history of selfies.

Ancient Roots

Self-portraiture can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where it was primarily used for religious or political purposes. For example, ancient Egyptians would create elaborate paintings or sculptures of themselves as a way to honor their gods. Similarly, ancient Greeks would depict themselves in art as a way to glorify their achievements and status.

The First Selfie

The first recorded selfie is believed to have been taken in 1839 by Robert Cornelius, an American amateur photographer. Cornelius set up his camera in his family’s Philadelphia store and took a self-portrait by removing the lens cap and running into the frame. This primitive selfie was the first of its kind and paved the way for the selfies we know today.

The Rise of the Selfie Stick

The modern selfie as we know it really took off in the early 2000s with the rise of social media platforms like MySpace and Facebook. As smartphone cameras became more advanced, people began taking and sharing selfies more frequently. To get the perfect shot, people started using selfie sticks, which allowed them to take pictures at a distance and capture more of their surroundings.

Selfie Culture

Selfies have become an integral part of popular culture, with people taking and sharing them on a daily basis. From celebrities to everyday people, everyone seems to be in on the trend. In 2013, the word “selfie” was even added to the Oxford English Dictionary, solidifying its place in modern language.

Criticism and Controversy

Not everyone is a fan of selfies, however. Some people criticize them for being narcissistic or superficial. Others have raised concerns about the safety risks of taking selfies, as people have been known to get injured or even die while trying to get the perfect shot.

2 Tips For Best Lighting For Selfies

We will give you two useful tips for best lighting for selfies. Use natural light: Taking a selfie in natural light, such as by a window or outside, can help to provide a more flattering and natural-looking photo.

Use a diffused light source: A diffused light source, such as a softbox or a diffuser, can help to reduce harsh shadows and create a more even lighting on your face. This can help to create a more flattering and natural-looking photo.

Conclusion

Selfies have come a long way since the first recorded self-portrait in 1839. From ancient paintings to modern social media, the art of self-portraiture has evolved significantly over time. While they have faced criticism and controversy, selfies remain a popular way for people to express themselves and share their experiences with others.