The Psychology Behind Social Media Users' Heavily Photo-Shopped Photos
The practice of heavily photo-shopped photos on social media is nothing new. People have always chosen to present the best version of themselves, whether through physical or digital means. This article delves into the psychology behind this behavior and explores the reasons why people opt to photo-shop their pictures.
Why Do People Use Photo Editing Tools?
Insecurity is one of the primary reasons people use photo editing tools. Just because someone is appearing edited in their social media posts, it doesn't mean they are doing it online-first. In actuality, the desire to look one's best is as old as humanity itself. People have been framing and displaying their best pictures in physical formats like photo albums and frames for decades, and the same insecurity drives them to share only their best self through social media.
Common Insecurity
Many individuals are unconsciously driven by the desire to look different from their normal selves, believing that such a change is an improvement. This insecurity can be deeply rooted and is often invisible to those who perpetuate it. Admitting to such insecurities can be uncomfortable, but acknowledging them is the first step towards realistic self-perception.
Technology Affects Behavior
However, the rise of social media and photo editing tools like Photoshop has amplified this behavior. People believe that using these tools will make them look like completely different, more attractive versions of themselves. They want to create an image of themselves that captivates the attention of their followers and evokes admiration.
Presentation Over Reality
The emphasis on presentation is another driving force behind photo editing. Just like a dinner plate is garnished to enhance its appeal, a photo is manipulated to make it more visually appealing. The intent is not just to improve the picture but to enhance one's online persona and reputation.
Pure Vanity and Attention Seeking
Many users engage in photo editing simply to look cooler and more attractive, hoping to draw more attention and likes. This behavior is often driven by a desire for validation and social proof. The feedback from followers serves as a tiny dopamine hit, reinforcing the behavior.
Historical Context
The desire to look one's best through alteration is not a modern phenomenon. Even before the advent of digital editing tools, airbrushing and other techniques were used to improve the appearance of photos. The accessibility and ease of use provided by modern technology have simply made this behavior more common and acceptable.
The Reality of Photo Editing
It's important to recognize that no matter how thoroughly an image is edited, it still reflects the person behind the camera. Photo editing is a tool, but it does not change the fundamental reality of who a person is. Dishonest editing can lead to negative consequences, especially for those who know the person or may know them in the future.
The “Bob Reaction”
Editing photos to look dramatically different can lead to unintended consequences. Just as the person standing in a real-life scenario will know the difference, those who see a heavily edited photo may assume the person has changed significantly. This can result in the "Bob reaction" mentioned earlier—comments and questions that embarrass the person.
Ignoring Those Who Will Never Meet
Some people engage in photo editing for the sole purpose of impressing others who may never meet them. Asking why you care about the opinions of individuals who will never come to know you is a valid question. It’s important to consider the impact of your online presence and whether the effort to edit your photos for validation is worth it.
Professional Perspective
For professionals like myself who work with photo editing, it's clear that excessive editing is rarely necessary. I've never retouched a single school photo of my own children. The photos should reflect reality, not an idealized version. Celebrating natural beauty and authenticity is not just more honest, but it fosters genuine connections with others who see your true self.
Conclusion
The phenomenon of photo editing on social media is driven by a combination of insecurity, vanity, and the desire for social validation. While the tools and technology have changed, the underlying motivations remain the same. It's crucial to strike a balance between presentation and authenticity, and to remember that the best version of yourself is often the one that is true to your natural self.