The shift towards celebrities not smiling in pictures is largely due to the "always available camera", according to an endowed chair in American Social History at Monmouth University. This constant presence of cameras has altered how celebrities perceive themselves and how they want to be seen.
The Impact of Constant Surveillance
The ubiquity of cameras has fundamentally changed the relationship between celebrities and their public image.
- Always On: Celebrities are now aware that they can be photographed at any moment, not just during official events. This has led to a desire to control their image at all times.
- Image Consciousness: The notion of being captured at any time has prompted a change in behavior. Celebrities often want to look 'perfect' or maintain a specific persona at all times, as if they are constantly being photographed for a magazine cover.
- Sophisticated Appearance: Many celebrities believe that a serious or neutral expression projects sophistication and control. This is a conscious choice to convey a certain image rather than an authentic, candid smile.
Changing Perceptions of Celebrity
The rise of social media and the ever-present camera have resulted in a shift in how celebrities interact with their image.
| Traditional Celebrity Interaction | Modern Celebrity Interaction |
|---|---|
| Controlled by photographers and media outlets during events. | Self-managed on social media and under constant scrutiny of any available camera. |
| Images were primarily staged. | Images can be taken at any time, in any place. |
| Authenticity was less important than perfection. | Authenticity competes with perfection. |
The "Gigi Hadid Grocery Shopping" Effect
The reference specifically points out the expectation of celebrities looking polished and perfect even during everyday activities.
- Unrealistic Expectations: The idea that a celebrity should resemble Gigi Hadid even when grocery shopping highlights the unrealistic expectations created by the constant availability of cameras.
- Pressure to Perform: This pressure to always appear 'on' has discouraged genuine smiles in favor of more controlled, less vulnerable expressions.
Conclusion
In summary, the lack of smiles from celebrities in pictures stems from the omnipresent nature of cameras and the resulting pressure to maintain a carefully curated image. The "always available camera" has created an environment where celebrities prioritize perceived sophistication and control over genuine expressions.
