Why do people take selfies and put them on the internet?

Handsome man taking selfie on the phone. Photograph by Michal Bednarek

There are several reasons why people take selfies and share them on the internet. Here are some common motivations:

1. Self-expression and self-presentation: Selfies allow individuals to express their identity, creativity, and personal style. By taking and sharing selfies, people can curate their online image, showcasing different aspects of their personality, interests, and experiences.

2. Social connection and validation: Sharing selfies on social media platforms provides an opportunity for individuals to connect with others and receive social validation. Likes, comments, and shares can boost self-esteem and create a sense of belonging.

3. Documenting moments and memories: Selfies serve as visual records of significant moments, events, or experiences in people's lives. They capture personal milestones, travels, gatherings, and achievements, allowing individuals to preserve memories and share them with others.

4. Building personal brand or online presence: For individuals in certain professions or industries, sharing selfies can contribute to building a personal brand or establishing an online presence. This can be particularly relevant for influencers, celebrities, or those involved in fashion, beauty, fitness, or lifestyle-related fields.

5. Creative expression and artistry: Some people take selfies as a form of creative expression and artistic exploration. They may experiment with different angles, poses, lighting, or editing techniques to create visually appealing or thought-provoking images.

6. Fostering connection with a community or fandom: Selfies can be a way for people to connect with others who share similar interests, passions, or fandoms. By participating in selfie challenges, using specific hashtags, or imitating poses associated with a particular community, individuals can feel part of a larger group or express their support for a cause.

7. Promoting products or services: Selfies can also be used for promotional purposes. Influencers or brands may include products, services, or sponsored content in their selfies to raise awareness, engage with their audience, and potentially drive sales.

It's important to note that motivations for taking and sharing selfies can vary greatly from person to person. Some individuals may prioritize self-expression and creativity, while others may focus more on social connection and validation. Additionally, people's attitudes towards selfies and social media can differ based on cultural, generational, or personal factors.

Source: Some or all of the content was generated using an AI language model