National Selfie Day

National Selfie Day History

National Selfie Day is a lighthearted observance that celebrates one of the most prevalent social media practices—the art of taking selfies. The event aims to promote self-expression and the sharing of life's moments captured in a single image. It encourages individuals to explore their creativity and the world around them through photographs taken of themselves, while engaging with others who share this same passion for self-portraiture.

This commemorative day, founded by DJ Rick McNeely in 2014, rapidly gained popularity across countries, including Canada. The significance behind National Selfie Day for Canadians lies in the opportunity it provides to showcase their unique regional identities and the diverse cultural tapestry inherent within the nation. From showcasing local landscapes to shining a light on Canada's rich cultural heritage, National Selfie Day invites Canadians to connect and celebrate their shared experiences through the creative lens of a selfie.

On National Selfie Day, Canadians from all walks of life participate in various customs and activities to mark the occasion. These often involve snapping photographs at picturesque or iconic locations in their respective areas, from the splendid Rocky Mountains to the bustling streets of Toronto. Canadians also take part by posting their selfies online using designated hashtags, fostering an atmosphere of camaraderie and community across the country. The celebration takes place on June 21st, globally uniting those who appreciate the art of a well-executed selfie.

National Selfie Day facts

• Amateur chemist and photography enthusiast Robert Cornelius is considered by many to have been one of the first people to take a photographic self-portrait. In 1839, Cornelius set his camera up at the back of a family store in Philadelphia. He managed to capture an image of himself by removing the lens cap and then running into frame. He then sat in frame for several minutes before covering up the lens again.
• Individuals spend 54 hours a year (or 7 minutes a day) taking selfies.
• People aged 18-24 take the most selfies. They typically snap over 1 million selfies a day.
• The increasing popularity of selfies in Canada has raised concerns about narcissism, mental health, privacy, and safety. Accidents and injuries have occurred while people attempted to take selfies in dangerous situations or locations.
• Selfie culture in Canada has influenced art, with exhibits and installations dedicated to the phenomenon, as well as discussions around the impact of self-portraits on art history and contemporary visual culture.

In the News and Trending in Canada for National Selfie Day

Top things to do in Canada for National Selfie Day

• Take a selfie and post it for the world to see!
• Discover several tips on taking a good selfie.
• Plan a trip to the CN Tower in Toronto. Capture a selfie with this iconic symbol of Canada in the background or from the observation deck.
• Visit Banff National Park in Alberta. Snap a selfie while surrounded by the incredible Rocky Mountains or in front of Lake Louise.