Social Media and Me - A Personal Perspective from Behind the Lens
As a professional newborn and family photographer, I understand the importance of staying connected in today’s digital world. Social media has become a powerful tool in helping small businesses like mine reach new audiences, keep in touch with clients, and showcase our work. But if I’m being completely honest (and I’ve talked about this before) I don’t really like it.
In fact, I often find myself feeling deeply uneasy about the world of social media. It’s a space that was once meant to connect us, to celebrate life’s happy moments, and to give everyone a voice. But over the years, it has grown into something far more complex, and not always in a good way.
The Dark Side of Social Media
One of the things that saddens me most is how easily social media allows lies, hatred, and cruelty to spread. Behind the safety of a screen and the anonymity of a username, people say things they would never say in person, and sometimes those words can cause real harm. Studies have shown that online abuse and cyberbullying have dramatically increased, especially on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter). According to Ofcom’s Online Nation report, more than 60% of UK adults have encountered harmful content online, ranging from misinformation to abusive or offensive posts.
And yet, despite the damage it can do, social media continues to give some of the worst voices in society a platform, and worse still, even power and status! I’ll never be fully comfortable with that.
A Studio That Welcomes Everyone
What makes me especially sad is the way social media is sometimes used to vilify and target people from minority groups, whether it’s based on race, religion, sexuality, gender identity, or disability. It’s heartbreaking. At my studio, everyone is welcome, always. I take huge pride in creating a space that is warm, safe, and inclusive for people from all walks of life. Every family, every story, every baby is valued here, no exceptions. Photography is about connection, and I believe that starts with respect and kindness. The divisive, harmful language I see online directed at certain communities is the very opposite of everything I stand for, both personally and professionally.
Why I Still Use It (Carefully)
So why do I still post on social media if I feel this way? Simply put: because I love what I do, and I want to stay working and connected to the wonderful families I’ve had the privilege of photographing over the years. Social media helps me do that. It allows me to showcase my work and, hopefully, reach new parents who are searching for a safe and experienced photographer to capture their most precious memories.
But I will never compromise on my values to do it.
Your Privacy Always Comes First
While I might post the occasional preview image from a client session - with permission, of course, I will never share identifying details. I do not and will not ever name or tag clients, their children or even their dog in my posts. Any image I share will remain completely anonymous, unless a parent specifically asks me to mention them.
And if you would rather I don’t share your child’s photo on social media at all then that’s absolutely fine by me. I completely understand, and I would never go against your wishes. Your trust means everything to me, and it’s an honour every time a family chooses me to capture such a personal moment in their lives.
Let’s Keep It Real
I believe in kindness. I believe in connection. And I believe in protecting the innocence of childhood - both in real life and online. I will continue to use social media carefully and mindfully, not because I love it, but because I believe my work matters and deserves to be seen in the right way.
My studio is a safe space in every sense of the word, and that includes how your images are handled after you leave.
Thank you, as always, for your continued support. 💛
Lorraine.