The self-portrait can be an image of how we think we appear, how we wish we appear to others, or even a disguise. Other such images may not be so much about how we look but an attempt to sketch an emotion, or a moment of light and color. It can serve as a cathartic release, as a reminder to ourselves, an invitation to the viewer, or a way of creating a mystery. It can show us aspects of ourselves we cannot otherwise see. Perhaps we can even explain to ourselves that which we could not otherwise bear. Bravery is as much a part of self portraiture as deceit.
As Laura Kicey and my Professor Vaughn states,
A self-portrait can be achieved without the use of the photographer's face, or even a part of the body. How we present ourselves, whether it is represented with a macro of our eye or the palm of our hand, can be as revelatory about our true natures as a more formal portrait. The means we use to create a public 'face' for ourselves, and how we build upon this image to tell our story, is the real challenge of self portraiture.
very well written, dear.
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