How I Turned Quarantine Blues into Self-Love with a Fun At-Home Photo Shoot

Quarantine has been a wild ride for many of us. With the world outside feeling so unpredictable, it’s easy to get lost in negative thoughts about ourselves. On the fifth day of my quarantine, I found myself staring into the mirror, feeling less than great about my appearance. It was tough. But on the sixth day, I made a choice to change my mindset and do something creative. I set up an at-home photo shoot, and this decision turned out to be a game-changer for my self-esteem. Here’s how I turned my quarantine woes into a celebration of self-love.

The Quarantine Struggle

Like many people, I started my quarantine filled with excitement. I thought it would be a chance to read all those books I had set aside, binge-watch my favorite shows, and maybe even learn to bake banana bread, a skill that saw a reported 75% increase in popularity during lockdown. As days rolled into weeks, that initial enthusiasm faded away. I began to feel sluggish, unmotivated, and, frankly, a bit lost in my own space.

The impact on my self-image became clear. Wearing the same sweatpants day after day, I neglected my skincare routine, leading to breakouts and an overall sense of unkemptness. A survey from the American Psychological Association reported that nearly 70% of people experienced increased anxiety during quarantine. I certainly felt like I was slipping away from my best self, and I knew I had to act.

The Decision to Create

On the sixth day, I woke up brimming with a new idea. I remembered my friends talking about their at-home photo shoots and thought, “Why not try that?” It seemed like a creative outlet where I could express myself and have some fun.

I gathered my supplies: my camera, a few props, and some outfits that had been collecting dust in my closet. To create a special vibe, I cleared out a corner of my living room and set up a backdrop using fairy lights. This corner transformed into a little sanctuary, ready for some fun.

Setting the Scene

Creating the right ambiance was key for my at-home shoot. I wanted it to feel magical and vintage. String lights provided a warm glow, and old photos, a guitar, and an old Polaroid added a touch of vintage to the space.

Choosing the right outfits was equally important. I selected pieces that made me feel confident. A fun flat brim hat, which I adored, and a light airy cardigan with a yellow floral sun dress that always gave me that “at home” feeling. Statistics show that wearing clothes you love can boost your mood. I couldn’t agree more.

What a Vibeeee!

The Photo Shoot Experience

Once everything was in place, excitement surged through me. I started taking photos, playing with different angles and expressions. At first, it felt a bit strange to be in front of the camera. However, with each click, I began to loosen up and enjoy myself.

I experimented with lighting and even danced a little between shots. Letting go of my insecurities felt freeing. I reminded myself that this experience was about celebrating who I am, not seeking perfection.

Embracing Self-Love

When I reviewed the photos later, I was taken aback. I saw a version of myself I had overlooked for too long. The images reflected not only my appearance but also my essence. I felt proud of what I had created.

This experience taught me that self-love extends beyond looks; it’s about how we feel about ourselves. During tough times, I realized I could choose to focus on the positives in my life.

Polaroid camera’s & old photos

Sharing the Journey

Inspired by my shoot, I decided to share my experience with my friends and family. I posted some of my favorite photos along with a note about how the shoot helped boost my self-love during a challenging time. The responses were overwhelmingly positive.

Many reached out to share their struggles and how they coped with quarantine. It felt incredibly validating to connect with others and remind each other we are not alone in this experience.

The Final Print

After editing my favorite shots, I opted to print one out as a tangible reminder of this newly found self-love. Every time I look at that photo, I’m reminded of the joy I felt in embracing myself. I was taken aback by its beauty; it truly captured the essence of that day.

A printed photo from the at-home shoot

Lessons Learned

Looking back on this experience, I’ve gained valuable insights:

1. Creativity Heals: Engaging in creative activities can lift your spirits and foster self-expression.

2. Self-Love is a Choice: It is crucial to push aside negative thoughts and actively choose self-acceptance.

3. Connection is Key: Sharing experiences fosters connections and shows that we are not alone in our struggles.

4. Celebrate Small Wins: Every step towards self-love, no matter how small, is worth celebrating.

   
   

Embracing the Journey

Quarantine brought on its share of challenges, but it also opened doors to creativity and self-discovery. My at-home photo shoot was more than just a fun activity. It marked a significant shift in how I viewed myself.

If you find yourself feeling down, I encourage you to try something similar. Set up a space, grab your camera, and let your creativity shine. You may surprise yourself with what you can create and how it makes you feel.

Remember, self-love is an ongoing journey, and every step counts. Embrace who you are, celebrate your uniqueness, and don’t hesitate to let your light shine, even in the toughest of times.