What image best represents who we are and the reality others perceive about us?
A recent experience renewing my passport got me thinking…I dutifully filled out the forms and went to the local FedEx/Kinkos to take new passport photos. I smiled, ready, but was told that we are supposed to look expressionless in passport photos. The photo that resulted is dull and almost scary-looking and bears no resemblance to the person I am — but it will represent me on my passport for the next ten years. Looking at this image of me you might imagine that I was at the very least depressed and, at worst, that I was dangerous. So tell me why “expressionless” is the preferred look for a document that will be used to evaluate our identity when we travel?
Images create an impression. Images tell a story about you. Are you happy with what your image is telling others about you?
