One might call the blind pursuit of an ancient legend foolishness. Few, however would say the same of religion. I can see little difference except for organisation and scale. For the followers they may serve the same purpose. They both have faith in something unverifiable but with power nonetheless.
A Refection on a Questionable Practice
School pictures are one of the most uninformative ways to graphically represent a person. They rank only slightly higher than a labelled stick figure and the same as a picture for any ID. Even a formal painted portrait is better. The reason school pictures are so inexpressive is that they are like a bad scientific diagram, except without the informative labels (grumpy expression from being posed hidden by a fake smile, etc.). The subject is posed in an unnatural and often uncomfortable position that usually does not reflect their mood or personality. Their special dress often worn also degrades the quality of information given. Not being the subject’s normal clothing it may lead to misinterpretation or lack of the information present in the photograph. These same reasons can lead to the degradation of the picture’s appeal, assuming it could have had any at all. In some cases the school photograph may reveal more about school pictures in general that about the subject.
My experiences with school pictures is not as bad as it could be. Many of my pictures are quite informative as school pictures go. For example, I haven’t worn a special outfit for “picture day” since first grade. That, itself, was a traumatic experience. My annoyance at the photographers may have helped the informational quality of the picture. I dislike posing and find no good reason to fake a smile so that a stranger can take my picture, albeit for my family’s use. My reluctance to smile and my being difficult when told to pose adds another layer to the monotony of the picture: that of the tortured child. Unfortunately it also resulted in the dreaded retakes. With a bit of refinement they would be a useful disciplinary mechanism.
In conclusion, school pictures are a waste of time except when the subject is rebellious or when used as a punishment for misbehaviour.
This is a blog about many things, all of them interesting, to me anyway. I hope that you will be informed and entertained. I also hope that I will be informed and entertained. Let the blogging commence.
