Notes on the Use of Photography in Checking up Unconscious Conflicts

Perhaps to one not versed in the art of photography the suggestion contained in this little article may seem far-fetched, and yet to one who knows photography, the study of unposed photographic prints of patients may be of value, for negatives often register things which the eyes do not observe.

We often see in a patient pretty much what the patient wants us to see. An illustration of this was the case of a young woman in which many interesting points had come to light and the patient, who was manifestly a marked extravert, showed an unfailing good humor and cheerfulness. Her face bright, her eyes laughing, she showed only a carefree disposition superficially. A slight facial asymmetry had been noted, but as the facial expression was so animated it was not considered unusual.

A photograph—an unposed snapshot—was taken about this time, and the picture when printed rather annoyed the original, who exclaimed—“Mercy, don't I look just like a fright.” The picture, of course, as in most amateur photographs, was not retouched, and everyone was quite amused at the “likeness” which was so unlike the original.

The photograph showed a decidedly depressed looking individual, with tired-looking eyes and a sad mouth. There was almost an appearance of illness. The facial asymmetry which was only slightly noticeable in reality showed up distinctly in the picture. The right corner of the mouth went down in a sneer, the right eye drooped. Looking at the right side only, the effect was unpleasant; the expression was cold, cynical, almost petulant. Looking at the left side there appeared a weary, bewildered, puzzled, appealing countenance.

As mentioned before, the actual appearance of this young woman was alert, gay and untroubled. Soon after the study of the photograph was made, some interesting information was obtained from