Are selfies with high level leaders professional or not?

SFC Jacob Hinkkanen — Sun, 10 May 2015 00:37:29 -0400

With the popularity of social media outlets such as Facebook, Instagram , and other selfies are everywhere. I'm interested to see other people's opinions on whether or not selfies with leaders such as the CSA and SMA are professional.

Response by COL Charles Williams made May 10 at 2015 12:49 AM

COL Charles Williams — Sun, 10 May 2015 00:49:38 -0400

Never thought about that, but I know it is awesome to have photos of you and leaders for the future. Memories. In my day... we did not do selfies... Someone had to take our photo, which was only done when allowed.

Response by SFC Jacob Hinkkanen made May 10 at 2015 12:58 AM

SFC Jacob Hinkkanen — Sun, 10 May 2015 00:58:52 -0400

The reason I asked this question is because of the pictures I've seen aiming out of last night's Infantry Ball. There are very professional looking pictures that were taken by someone, probably an aide. There are also a bunch of pictures taken that did not fit that description.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 10 at 2015 2:28 AM

TSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 10 May 2015 02:28:41 -0400

I think they are fine as long as they are done respectfully and no stupid duces thrown up etc.

Response by CW4 Private RallyPoint Member made May 10 at 2015 3:40 AM

CW4 Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 10 May 2015 03:40:41 -0400

General Vincent Brooks endorsed this selfie of a coworker of mine at an event here in Hawaii! He was more than happy to do this for her. I don't see any issue with it.

Response by SFC Charles S. made May 10 at 2015 4:41 AM

SFC Charles S. — Sun, 10 May 2015 04:41:23 -0400

As much as it is part of the civilian private sector. It is not a permissible part of the professional work sector. It can even lead to a job being lost over taking a selfie during on the job time. You just have to know when it is and when it isn't permissible. To avoid the problem if you don't know...Don't do it.

I would say the Military should have the same standard. If you are on duty, don't do it. If you are off duty and the high level leader is out on a meet and greet and their doing it, sure go ahead.

Response by Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS made May 10 at 2015 8:02 AM

Sgt Aaron Kennedy, MS — Sun, 10 May 2015 08:02:51 -0400

"Reflections of Society"

Previously, technology didn't really exist which allowed selfies, therefore they didn't exist. We had to have a 3rd party take the photo. Additionally, we just didn't ALL have cameras on us at ALL times.

That said, we now all have cameras on us, nearly every waking hour, and getting a "memory photo" is so much simpler than "back in the day."

The Selfie technique is neither professional, nor unprofessional, as there is no standard, because technology and society have evolved faster than standards. I pause for effect... Military bearing is a constant, however, and if the subjects of said photos, maintain it, then the photo is "as professional as it can be."

If the General/Admiral/Colonel/Corporal allows it, then take it. If they in turn say "Hey Devil dog, come over at take this photo for us" rock on to that as well.

Response by PFC Tuan Trang made May 10 at 2015 8:08 AM

PFC Tuan Trang — Sun, 10 May 2015 08:08:39 -0400

Is depend on the sistuation, Off base selfie with civilian uniform may be ok, but on base with uniform are unprofessional.

Response by CSM David Heidke made May 10 at 2015 9:06 AM

CSM David Heidke — Sun, 10 May 2015 09:06:19 -0400

If permission is sought, and given, then I don't see a problem with it.

Times change... It's best we change some things to accomodate.

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made May 10 at 2015 9:19 AM

Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 10 May 2015 09:19:04 -0400

If it's professional enough that CMA or CSAF are engaging in it, it's professional enough for the lower ranking members.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 10 at 2015 6:58 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 10 May 2015 18:58:19 -0400

I don't want vote Yes or No and here is why, If someone is going to get a "selfie" then they most likely could get someone to take the picture with them. If for some reason that they could not make that happen and they REALLY felt the need to have the picture with someone, then I honestly do not see the problem as long as the picture is professional.

Response by Col Private RallyPoint Member made May 10 at 2015 10:10 PM

Col Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 10 May 2015 22:10:49 -0400

I could care less.

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made May 10 at 2015 10:40 PM

Maj Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 10 May 2015 22:40:10 -0400

I really understand people wanting a "selfie" but with our AF Leaders my choice is a "no"... and I've been in the position to ask but didn't. There is always someone else around to take the photo for you.