Does A Photograph Take Part Of The Soul?
August 31st, 2009 | 
Author: Several American Native tribes, most notably the Hopi, have held the belief that photographs diminish the soul of the person whose picture is taken.
Although this may at first seem absurd, consider the lives of celebrities. Photographed all the time, they often appear to live frivilous lives of moral relativism, often involving promiscuity, drugs, alcoholism and sometimes violence. Could it be they have weak souls?
Then ask yourself, how many times have you been photographed, filmed or taped? Does it boost your ego when you see pics of yourself? Has it ever made you feel superior to others, or made you feel that you could do no wrong because you look so good?
Do you think the Hopis might have been onto something?
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You make a remarkable point. But celebrities should know what they are getting into by now. They have let themselves be part of the public eye. They chose how they handle the publicity. Some turn to drugs, others hiding, and some just don’t care. To me, photographs are captured memories. They allow us and help us remember our past. It gives us a glimpse of our souls.
in the case of celebrities i think its more than just getting their picture takin that results in increased ego, promiscuity, depression, drugs, etc… I think it is their entire lifestyle.
As to what the Hopi’s believe I think it is very interesting and i can believe that a picture captures a part of you. Many other cultures believe that it is bad to keep pictures of dead loved ones in the home because then their spirit stays in the home as well.
what is a camera except a flash and the capture of light? cameras work similar to our eyes, light goes in upsidedown and is flipped and sent to the brain/film to be analysed. you might as well ask “when somebody looks at you, does part of your soul die?” besides, our souls are not physical and nothing on earth can touch them. only God can.
I would say it is this same as looking in the mirror, dressing yourself up to go out in public, and showing off to a crowed of people. That is the reasonable explanation I would give.
Superstitions are powerful things, but eventually you just have to say no.
“Does it boost your ego when you see pics of yourself? Has it ever made you feel superior to others, or made you feel that you could do no wrong because you look so good?”
I really hope nobody ever thinks this way. that’s a recipe for disaster
I see pictures as a popularity contest almost, especially on facebook. There is some insight on what you are saying, very interesting indeed.
That would indeed explain why so many celebrities and especially politicians seem to be soulless.
No, because souls are not real. It’s an interesting concept though. I like studying Native American religions.
I think it falls in the same belief as the true hard coar christian being a graven image.
Depends on who you’re talking to. I dont believe it but I dont have control over other people
I don’t believe that it does, but you make an interesting (and good) argument.
Depends on the f-stop.
No. There is no such thing as a soul.
In my case no, I dont look very good.
No it doesn’t !
hmmmm that had me thinking…
Maybe a little….If a person can wear it on their face.
Thank you for bringing this to my attention.
i wish i knew the answer to this… but this is a really good question!