What makes a selfie a selfie?

A selfie is a self-portrait photograph taken by a person, typically using a smartphone or a digital camera, held at arm's length or with the help of a selfie stick. Several characteristics define what makes a photograph a selfie:

1. Self-Portrait: The primary characteristic of a selfie is that it features the photographer themselves as the main subject. The person taking the photo is also the person appearing in the photo.

2. Handheld Camera: Selfies are typically taken using a handheld camera, most commonly a smartphone. The photographer holds the camera at arm's length or uses a selfie stick to extend the reach of the camera.

3. Close Proximity: Selfies are often taken from a close distance, focusing on the person's face or upper body. The photographer aims to capture their facial expressions or features.

4. One or More Subjects: While selfies typically feature a single person as the main subject, it is also common to see group selfies (known as "groupies" or "wefies") where multiple people are captured in the photo.

5. Informal and Casual: Selfies are usually informal and casual in nature, often used for personal communication, sharing on social media, or documenting a moment or experience.

6. Front-Facing Camera: Many smartphones are equipped with front-facing cameras specifically designed for taking selfies, making it easier for the photographer to frame themselves in the shot.

7. Social Media Sharing: Selfies are commonly shared on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, and Twitter. They have become a popular way for individuals to express themselves and connect with others online.

8. Different Angles and Poses: Selfies can be taken from various angles and may include different poses or expressions to capture the photographer's mood or personality.

9. Filtered or Edited: Selfies are often edited or enhanced using photo editing apps or filters to adjust lighting, colors, or to add special effects before sharing them.

The term "selfie" gained popularity with the rise of social media and the ubiquity of smartphones equipped with front-facing cameras. The ease of taking selfies and sharing them on various platforms has made them a significant part of modern visual culture and communication. While some may view selfies as a form of self-expression and documentation, others have criticized the trend for promoting self-obsession and contributing to concerns related to self-esteem and body image.

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