Exploring Constructed Visual Representation of Self: A Semiotic Analysis of Facebook Selfies

Abstract

Development of various social media platforms allow people to create and share self-representation. Among all platforms Facebook is the most popular for constructing visual self-representation through selfies. Therefore, the current study aims to investigate the constructed visual representation of self (signs and symbols) through selfies posted by Facebook users. Semiotic analysis is used to analyze a sample of twenty selfies from five profiles by setting different indicators. Self-awareness, look at me, here I am, what am I wearing and look at this are some of the most significant indicators observed during the analysis. Results indicate that for self-portrayal Facebook users apply different signs and symbols like stretch arms, tilt of head, etc. It is concluded that representation of self through selfies increase the feelings of self-awareness and allows the person to live the time with others on their facebook profiles. Keywords: Selfie, Visual Representation of self, Facebook, semiotic analysis