There was no such thing as social media when I graduated college in 2001 (goodness, when I write it like that it seems like a million years ago!). I remember that exciting time in my life vividly—the college meal plans, the freshmen 15, the friends, the parties, the sweet taste of new freedom, newfound vegetarianism, and signing up for every women’s literature class under the sun. Back then, I was a bright-eyed, bushy tailed (where was the wax when you needed it?! Hey-o! Also, I’m kidding. SHEESH), 21-year-old about to embark on a new career with all the optimism of the world and a very tiny backbone.
I had a good head on my shoulders thankfully, and on most days, hair that wasn’t completely unmanageable.
Naturally I was ready to get out there and date all the men. If you had told me then that one day, we’d all be glued to our phones and we’d check in places and take pictures of our food before eating it, I never would have believed you. Get on a chair and photograph my veggie burger?
Stop your face.
But it’s happening. And as a blogger, there are routine things that even I do that might drive some to drink. I’m ever grateful for an understanding boyfriend who doesn’t mind driving around town looking for a “good wall” or spending 10 minutes trying to perfect an aerial shot of dinner. THE FUCK?!
Yes! These things are happening all around us. Which makes me wonder, how do young couples survive? As the stakes of the influencer marketing game change each year and the trend dictates immediate content that wows and gains followers, I have to imagine that it must be very difficult for a lot of relationships to thrive when there is constantly a camera and a need to edit and share and like and tag.
Here are some things I’ve learned along the way about taking personal pictures or photos for my blog/social media, but I’d love love love to hear from any bloggers about their experiences dating/being in relationships.
Ask permission to check in somewhere. Bryan and I have an unspoken rule about this kind of thing—we very rarely check in because I’m paranoid and don’t like to broadcast my business
Know before you go, especially if you need to take pictures for your blog/social media. I try not to “surprise” my partner with an impromptu photo shoot, especially in the winter when daytime hours are limited
Pack snacks. I can easily recognize the minute Bryan gets low blood pressure and I’ve learned to carry a chia bar around in my handbag for just this moment. If he’s doing me a solid by helping with photography, I’ll offer to pay for lunch or dinner at one of his favorite restaurants. Food = the best form of bribery
Make a date of it. If I need him to take pictures of something for my blog and we’re doing an outdoor shoot and weather permits, we bring the pup and go for a nice long walk, catch up on life, and breathe in the fresh air
Don’t criticize. I really struggle with this though I’ve learned there is a right and a wrong way to ask for help. Also I really don’t you need to post that picture with my three chins, thankyouverymuch. DO: Offer suggestions and possible camera angles that can help your significant other get a better shot.
Have advice to share? Please leave it below!
My husband is stuck with the Facebook checkins! I don’t ask and he’s never complained before. Plus, that’s about the only activity on his account
No lie – I have heard of one couple splitting because of this. I think there was more to it, and he needed an excuse, but it really happened!
Cassidy is such a pal with my photography and blogging whims..
This is an interesting topic, Charlotte. Your Beau sounds very helpful! Mine isn’t a social media guy. At. All. He gets mad if I post a picture of him anywhere. I’ve posted one or two but it’s the back of him so he isn’t exposed. I’m kind of sneaky that way. Ha! He isn’t even on facebook. Actually, I’ve considered closing my facebook account but I don’t want to lose my book page. As for pictures for my blog, as you know, I mainly try to get copyright free images from various sites like unsplash. I just don’t have the time to include photography on my blog. Mine is more about stories and tips etc. the images are kind of a fun complement. Sorry this is so long. I love the pics you have on your blog!
It sounds like Bryan takes your social media needs in stride, which is awesome! I love that he’s supportive and helpful to you and that you’re understanding that it can be an inconvenience.
I love that Bryan is such a good sport and helps you out! My family knows about my picture taking, like when we go out to eat, as soon as the food has arrived I have to take a pic. But Leonie is already stepping in my footsteps, snapping away for her IG! Haha – like mother like daughter. xxx
We out our phones away when we are out fur a meal, socialising or have friends over ?
You know how young couples do it? They just do because they know no other. They sometimes text instead of physically opening their mouths to talk to eachother; it’s baffling!!
Jeff aka hates getting his picture taken, it’s so annoying at times. Lol
*no aka, god one would think I’m drunk for crying out loud. Sorry!