How Self Portraits Improve Self-Perception and Explores Self- Expression.
Introduction:
Self Portraits have been prevalent in my life since I was a teenager. They have always been really important to me as an artist. I have explored self portraiture through painting, drawing, and photography. In college, my self portraits transformed into an unofficial diary. In a way this habit helped me realize that boudoir photography is the perfect niche for me to focus on. When you become your own muse, your self-perception builds into confidence and it reshapes you. I wanted to talk about 3 reasons taking self portraits have helped me be my most authentic self while building my self confidence.
Reason 1 – Seeing Yourself Through Your Own Lens:
Recently, I carved out time to take updated self portraits in my boudoir studio. I’d put it off for too long being in a stage where I feel uninspired. It had been years since I gave myself the full client experience: perfect lighting, my favorite poses, my curated wardrobe, the full setup. The shoot gave me a deeper understanding of what my clients experience too. Seeing the final images and thinking, “That’s me? I feel powerful. I am authentically me. I am beautiful.” It was truly healing. I stared at those photos for a while. I reminded myself that when I take time for myself, I feel beautiful. Neglecting myself for too long it effects my mental health. This is one of the most personal ways I’ve experienced how self portraits improve self-esteem, it helps me reconnect with my authentic myself.
(Image above self portrait taken in 2023 in boudoir studio- wearing items from client closet)
Yes, I am a boudoir photographer, so I understand you may be thinking “well, duh they turned out well, you’re a professional.” But like I stated earlier, I have been taking selfies for a long time. The practice allows you to see yourself in the way you want to be seen. Exploring personal style, flattering angles, and finding what represents you best. Do all selfie sessions turn out the way you want them to? Absolutely not, but like all art processes, practice makes perfect.
All you need to start is you and your cell phone. A tripod and little remote will make your life way easier. Maybe start sexy, think Marilyn Monroe wrapped in her sheets. Get into it, play your favorite music, have a glass of wine, whatever makes you relax. If you find yourself looking at them a lot, you have been successful. If that isn’t the case, keep on trying different things. And with the rising popularity of Polaroids and Film photography you can play with more creative ways to take selfies. This Instagram account @selfiesonfilm -shares images taken from their audience. Check it out for some inspiration. The important key is staying authentic to yourself.
Self Portraits are found in fine art often too. Cindy Sherman, who built her entire career around self-imaging and identity exploration through story telling. Or Frida Kahlo, whose self-portraits exposed deep emotional truths. Even Van Gogh created a moody portrait in his bandage. Self-portraiture, in any form, has always been a way to examine who we are. Take some time to get inspired by different artists and see what speaks to you. ( An Article focusing on : 19 famous Self Portrait Photographers)
Reason 2- Building Self-Awareness and Confidence:
Confidence is a process. One that takes effort and patience. Body dysmorphia and negative self-talk are very real hurdles. On some days, even the idea of taking a selfie can feel like too much. But each time you show up for yourself: messy, glowing, tired, vibrant: you build that self-trust. Little by little, you discover what you like, what you don’t, and what you’re learning to embrace. That’s powerful.
For me, confidence doesn’t come from liking every photo. It comes from knowing I’m an artist, a business owner, and someone who’s brave enough to be seen. Selfies remind me I’m worthy of being documented, not just at my “best,” but always. We gain power through visibility. And with power comes self esteem and confidence with inspires others like you.
(The image above shows a portrait of my body excluding my head. The portrait is more about the clothing I am wearing on my body than my face.)
Reason 3 – Be Creative with your Self Expression.
Individualism on social media seems to be discouraged lately. By selling you the same trendy clothes, the same viral makeup brands, and hyping up the same hair styles. I am not a fan of this. Expressing yourself is valuable, but I also understand not everyone wants to stand out. So, taking the time to creative self portraits as your authentic self is powerful. Whether it’s sexy or not a photo of your face at all, exploring who you are through photography is so much fun.
Ask yourself a few questions before you start.
- What inspires you?
- How do you feel inside?
- Where do I feel most comfortable?
- Do I have an outfit I have been dying to wear?
- What do I want to avoid?
- How do I want to look?
Put together a mood board for yourself. Gather clothing you already have, or thrift for something special for the shoot. Schedule a few hours to prepare and hype yourself up. The process should feel like a ritual; a self love ritual. Taking time for yourself is so valuable. Self portraits are an art in itself, enjoy the process, especially if you feel uninspired lately.
(Images above show edits from my most recent self portrait set in 2025 including rugs from Loom House in Milwaukee, Wisconsin)
Conclusion:
Self Portraits are more than a trend or a digital habit. They’re a form of visual journaling, a way to mark your presence in this world. Whether you’re capturing a bold makeup look, a quiet moment, or a chaotic bedhead morning, each photo becomes part of your narrative.
You deserve to see yourself through a lens of compassion. Whether you’re posting them online or keeping them just for yourself, don’t underestimate how self portraits improve self-esteem; one frame, one moment, one version of you at a time. You deserve to express yourself authentically, even if only you see the results. Take more self portraits.
( All images shown are taken, styled, and composed my myself. Images taken with my Canon camera with 50mm prime lens, and edited on Adobe Lightroom. The shots assisted with the Canon Camera Connect App via WiFi connection)
leave a comment