Say Cheese!!

BY: RACHEL WUMKES

**original post on June 21, 2019**

While the word ‘selfie’ has only been in existence for a few years, it appears the selfie itself has been around for ages.  Since 1839 to be exact!  Funny, I thought the fascination with pictures or photos of oneself was a new thing.

Back then, the image was referred to as a self-portrait, often drawn or painted on a canvas for the purpose of displaying regally in the home.

The actual first selfie with a camera took place in 1920.  At a rooftop party, five men huddled together for a photo.  It took two men to hold the camera at arm’s length because they were so heavy back then.  From across the roof, another man thought they looked ridiculous and snapped a photo of the men.  He didn’t realize that he’d captured a piece of history.

But just think… they couldn’t know immediately if the photo was good, bad, or ugly.  If Johnny closed his eyes or Jeffery had a double chin in the picture.  Nope!  They had to wait until the film was developed to see the final product.  Y’all remember those days?

Oh, the horror. 

As time marched on, so did our technological advances, making cameras lighter, easier to use, and the instant gratification of seeing your photo immediately.

Hence – more selfies!

In 2015, the invention of the selfie stick was a game-changer, making it possible to include more background and additional people in each photo.

So, where am I going with this, you ask?  Well, we’ve come up with a SUPER fun idea for you in celebration of National Selfie Day!  Here’s the rundown…

Take any selfie from the list below (or come up with a fun idea of your own!).  Post your photo on social media and tag your location, as well as Clear Lake, Iowa.  Be sure to smile pretty and show all the love for your favorite Clear Lake spot!!

Here’s the list of Clear Lake selfies.  Do one.  Do them all.  It’s up to you.  Enjoy!
  1. In front of the South Shore Donut Company sign
  2. In front of the Surf Ballroom
  3. At the seawall
  4. At State Beach / City Beach / McIntosh State Park
  5. In front of Lake Theater
  6. At the Splash Pad
  7. ON the lake (kayak, sailboat, swimming, boating, fishing)
  8. Selfie with a Fish
  9. On the Lady of the Lake
  10. In front of your FAVORITE Clear Lake restaurant
  11. Shopping at any local Clear Lake store

Ready.  Set.  GO!!!

Happy (day late) Selfie Day, Clear Lakers – hope you see you around town!