Selfies being mirrored can be traced back to the early days of photography when there were no screens on the same side as the lens. I remember looking at old photographs and noticing that people would often hold up a mirror in front of the camera to see the preview while taking a selfie.
Back then, cameras were not as advanced as they are today. They didn’t have a screen that allowed you to see the image you were about to capture. Instead, you had to rely on your instincts and hope that the shot turned out well. This is where the mirror came in handy.
By using a mirror, people could see themselves in the reflection and adjust their pose or expression accordingly. It allowed them to ensure that they were capturing the image they desired. It was a practical solution in a time when technology was limited.
I find it fascinating to think about how people had to go through these extra steps just to take a selfie. It shows how much photography has evolved over the years. Nowadays, we can instantly see the image on our screens and retake it if we’re not satisfied. But back then, they had to rely on mirrors and hope for the best.
The use of mirrors in early selfies also highlights the importance of self-presentation and self-image. People have always been conscious of how they look in photographs, and the mirror allowed them to have some control over their image. It was a way to ensure that they were presenting themselves in the best possible way.
As technology progressed, cameras eventually started incorporating screens on the same side as the lens, eliminating the need for mirrors. However, the tradition of mirrored selfies still persists today. Many people still flip their phones around and use mirrors to get the perfect angle or check their appearance before snapping a selfie.
In a way, the mirrored selfie has become a nostalgic nod to the early days of photography. It’s a reminder of how far we’ve come in terms of technology and self-expression. And even though it may seem unnecessary in our modern world, there’s something charming and timeless about the act of using a mirror to capture oneself.
So, the next time you take a selfie and find yourself flipping your phone around to use a mirror, remember the history behind this practice. It’s a small reminder of the ingenuity and resourcefulness of those who came before us in the world of photography.