I love taking photographs. I love looking through the lens and capturing a moment. I bring my camera to all of the events I attend at our synagogue and I've been taking photos at brunches, Sisterhood dinners, Purim celebrations, Religious School events, etc, for about 8 or 9 years now. People see me and my camera and say "oh the picture lady is here!" My simple hand gesture of huddle up is enough to get everyone together for a quick photo.
But, at every event, despite the fact that everyone is smiling and having a good time, inevitably there are those who protest when I approach them with my camera. I hear things like a) I am not photogenic, b) I have too many wrinkles, and c) I have gained too much weight.
There is a lot of worry - should I put on lipstick first, do I have salad in my teeth, should I leave my glasses on or take them off? The idea of a photo being taken makes so many people very self conscious. They automatically focus on what they perceive to be flaws.
I have to tell you all that when I look at you through my lens, I see beautiful, happy people, surrounded by friends and community members, having wonderful moments with people they care about. There are no flaws. You are all photogenic. Embrace having your picture taken and embrace the joy that comes from knowing that you can look back on the memory! Let go of what you perceive to be flaws. Be confident in who you are and just let loose with the biggest smile you have. We are our own worst enemies when it comes to our looks. Let's promise to stop doing that to ourselves!
As we prepare to spend time with friends and family for Thanksgiving, make sure to take lots of photos regardless of whether or not you are wearing lipstick! Looking back at these photos years from now will make you smile.
Wishing you and your families a very Happy Thanksgiving!
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