You’re (not) so vain

Printing those photos doesn’t say those negative things about you that you’re telling yourself it does.

In an era dominated by digital snapshots and fleeting social media posts, the act of printing photographs might seem antiquated. But you can’t deny there’s special about holding a tangible print in your hands, especially when it features your own image. What does it say about ME though, when I have an image of myself blown up to not quite life size proportions and plastered on the wall in my own home? Does that make me conceited? Vain? Or is it none of those things, but actually a powerful tool for self-reflection and appreciation? A way to memorialize myself at this moment in time, for all time, and is actually pretty empowering and healthy?

Let's start by tackling the notion that printing photos of ourselves is inherently vain. Vanity implies an excessive admiration of one's appearance or achievements, often at the expense of others. Printing and displaying photos of yourself isn't about seeking validation or comparison though; it's about celebrating our own moments and milestones. It could be a candid snapshot with friends, a cherished family portrait, or a solo shot of pure joy at a significant event. The photos we choose to print go on to serve as physical, tactile reminders of the experiences that shape who we are.

Pure, tooth-baring joy in Venice, Italy.

Aside from just a great way to remember the good times, the act of printing and displaying photos can have major psychological benefits. Seeing images of ourselves displayed in our homes or workspaces can foster a sense of self-acceptance and boost self-esteem - something that we ALL need help with, if we’re being honest. Research has shown that regularly viewing photos of ourselves can help reinforce our identity and strengthen our connection to our past experiences. For example, a study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that reminiscing about positive memories, often triggered by viewing photos, can increase feelings of self-worth and life satisfaction. According to Psychology Today, this positive reminiscence can even end up positively altering your physical health - the mind is a powerful thing.

Printing our photos also allows us to curate our own narrative and challenge unrealistic beauty standards that are inescapable across social media and bombarding us at every turn. By capturing our authenticity and embracing our imperfections, we can redefine beauty on our own terms. Instead of constant comparison, we can turn our gaze to that perfectly executed photo that was taken by a skilled photographer after much consultation and consideration for how we feel inside and how we want to be seen.

In essence, printing photos of yourself is not an act of vanity but rather about honoring your journey, preserving memories, and cultivating self-love in a world that often encourages self-doubt. You don’t have to feel bad for embracing who you are and the experiences that have shaped you. Print that photo, become your OWN idol.