Many people depend on others to document their speaking and pictures next to their artwork in social receptions. “Do you want me to take your picture?” I hear often.

Ha, ha, some even ask me if they can use MY camera to take it!

But I smile and decline because I know how they are going to look, simple as that.

What diva behavior I exhibit is largely around odd looking portraits taken of me in candid, ‘well-meaning’ social situations.

My mouth and eyes are both lively and mobile and moving at different times, and from experience sitting for and seeing photographs from others, the person on the other side of the camera is finding it difficult to catch a good expression.

It has even happened with someone taking my photo for an award I won:

I didn’t ask to see them (it’s not good manners), but the short shoot did not inspire confidence: photos for the archives only.

I am grateful for the viewer sending me a picture of me during my reception, catching a composition made with a view of my artwork,

but seeing that this image also has my eyes and mouth moving, mid thought,

reminds me in one shot to curate my own images for how I want to look.

Dorothy is a Chicago portrait and lifestyle photographer following her energetic eyes through her world. Buy artwork or hire her creativity through her Contact Page.