In this digital age, how we capture and cherish memories has undergone a significant transformation, and to speak candidly, I think it's pretty sad. With the arrival of smartphones and social media platforms like Instagram, Snapchat and TikTok, our lives have become more interconnected than ever (it's actually scary). While this connectivity has advantages, it has also changed how we take, edit, and store photos.
I'm not saying we should all throw away our iPhones and grab an old-school disposable camera (80s kids will get this), but I think it's a conversation worth having and thinking about before it's too late for our kids.
The Pursuit of the Perfect Selfie
So, what comes with these visually pleasing platforms has inadvertently encouraged us to focus on capturing the perfect shot. Whatever the photo may be of, I would confidently assume more than half of us chuck a filter over it or crop it to some level; when I say us, I mean those of us who are mums and dads- The younger generation appears almost addicted to putting over a cheeky edit that often makes them look, well, basically, like another person. A teenager I know even sticks an emoji over her face in every photo, so it's fair to say they will have some "awesome memories". (sigh)
Unfortunately, we aren't just guilty of glamming up a selfie. We also seem to do it to family holidays, our kid's birthday party, or a random day at the park. The mission for the 'perfect photo' often involves multiple retakes, meticulous editing, and filters to achieve the desired aesthetic. How many of you have the same photo taken 20 times on your phone to get a slightly 'better smile' or angle?
While there's nothing wrong with striving for beautiful photos to share with friends and family, this can sometimes overshadow the moment's authenticity. What are we missing out on while aiming for the perfect shot, and what memories do we miss capturing?
I mean, I, for one, don't want to look back at a holiday to QLD and remember the 400 pool selfies over the fact that I went scuba diving for the first time, regardless that I look like a lost whale in a wetsuit, it was one of the best adventures of my life.
I sound old, but seriously.....
In contrast to the modern obsession with perfection, old-school action shots offer a raw and authentic glimpse into our lives. These candid photos capture the moment - the laughter, the chaos, and the imperfections that make each memory spesh. These photos often feature spontaneous smiles, untamed hair, and imperfect backgrounds, but they hold an unparalleled charm.
In the last few years, I lost both of my parents, and one thing I used to take for granted was the family photo albums at their house. I am lucky my mum enjoyed taking photos, and you can bet your bottom dollar there was always a disposable camera on the table at Christmas. When I finally had the emotional capacity to open the old photo albums, I was overcome with memories. They say when people pass, that's all you have, but without photos, my mum brain would have forgotten a lot. I also have the most incredible keepsakes to show my son his grandparents.
Going through these albums, I realise that you tend to flick over the posed shots, and really, the enjoyment comes from those old-school action shots, which can transport us back to a particular moment in time.
Being Present in Photos
Now, while I have a heap of selfies from my 20s and 30s, there is a gap in capturing the big moments. While my appearance is certainly not how I would love it to be, I have stopped myself from inadvertently distancing myself from the moments I seek to preserve, like jumping in the pool with my toddler on the grand final weekend. Remembering that our children won't remember the filtered and staged photos but the genuine experiences they shared with us is crucial. Being present in images means not just capturing our children's smiles but also our own. It means participating fully in the moment, cherishing the laughter, and embracing the messiness of life.
Actually, printing a photo.
Finally, I am guilty of requiring more iPhone storage than the average person, but I am now fully on the photo album bandwagon. I will keep this tradition for my family because I get it.
I'm not saying I won't ever apply a filter or take a selfie; I'm just focusing on being in the moment more and on the other side of the camera because I know they will serve as a valuable connection to our past.
P.S. Big W have a simple app you can upload and get them sent to your home; it's super simple.
Lastly,
While social media is great for sharing our lives with randoms we went to high school with, it's essential not to lose sight of the value of authentic photos and be present in them! Take a step back from the abundance of likes and comments and actually print some pictures. Trust me, your kids will thank you in some way or another.
Love to hear your thoughts.
Jem X
Comments