“Unselfies.” We Are Changers. n.p., n.d. Web. 23 Aug. 2014.
http://wearechangers.org/unselfies/
In the face of a self-portrait phenomenon, the Unselfies project aims to switch that focus. The movement encourages amateur photographers to spotlight the world around them, with the intention of capturing their feelings rather than capturing their own physical appearances. This shift prioritizes character over aesthetics. Likewise, the site’s mission places empathy at the forefront. As people upload their own life perspective to the gallery, viewers receive an intimate peek into the lives of other humans.
I see the positives in this project but I also consider selfies to be inherently valuable as well. Unselfies do lean toward an appreciation of the environment and force consideration of the earth before consideration of ourselves. That much is beneficial. However, the project seems to make a dichotomy of humans and their environment. The people are literally removed from the picture, despite having a deeply interconnected relationship with the landscape. Humans are a major player in what the camera sees. Perhaps a selfie within their surroundings would be more effective at driving this point home. We have a responsibility to the world around us. Our actions are not invisible. Our impact, for better or for worse, is there.
