14th April 2023, Mumbai: Producer Chitra Vakil Sharma says that while the use of filters is not harmful, overuse of them is not recommended. She says that we need to decide how we can regulate ourselves and not get carried away.
“Filters are commonly used on various platforms to enhance photos and videos, but their overuse can negatively impact our perceptions of ourselves and others, creating unrealistic beauty standards. However, we have the power to choose how we engage with filters, and by being aware of their potential effects on our mental health and self-esteem, we can make intentional choices about when and how to use them. We can also work towards a culture of authenticity and self-acceptance, celebrating our unique features and natural flaws. Additionally, filters can be a source of creativity and self-expression, allowing us to create visually striking content that reflects our individual personalities and interests. Ultimately, with a positive and mindful approach, we can use filters as a tool for self-expression while celebrating our authentic selves and prioritizing our mental health and well-being,” she says.
Ask her if she feels is celebrities might be setting the wrong precedent for people who follow them by using these filters, and she says, “As a producer, I am well aware of the impact that media and entertainment can have on people, especially young audiences. While I strive to create content that is entertaining and engaging, I am also conscious of the messages that it sends and the precedent it sets for those who follow us. It is a responsibility that I take seriously, and I am constantly working to ensure that my content is positive and uplifting, while also being entertaining and engaging. I am mindful of the fact that I have a platform and that people look up to me, and I try to use that platform to inspire and motivate others to be their best selves. Of course, there are times when I may not get it right, and I am always open to feedback and criticism. It is important to me that my work is received positively, and that it has a positive impact on the world. At the end of the day, I believe that, as producers and creators, we have a responsibility to be mindful of the messages that we are sending, and to use our platforms to make the world a better place.”
However, she says that giving them up completely is not the solution. “As a producer, I think it’s important to acknowledge the potential negative effects of overusing filters on social media, but I don’t believe that the solution is to completely give up on them. Filters can be a useful tool for adding a creative touch to visual content, and when used in moderation, they can enhance the overall aesthetic without creating an unrealistic standard of beauty. However, I do think it’s important for individuals to be mindful of their usage and the impact it may have on their mental health and self-esteem. As content creators, we have a responsibility to promote authenticity and self-acceptance, and that includes being transparent about the use of filters and the potential impact on our own perception and the perception of others. So, while I don’t believe in completely giving up on filters, I do think we should approach their usage with a balanced and responsible mindset, and encourage others to do the same,” she says.