Courtship in Pixels: Examining Romantic Expressions in Digital Photography Through a Mixed-Method Approach

Abstract

This exploratory research sought to address gaps in understanding the role of digital photography in modern courtship. The study was motivated by the evolving landscape of romantic expression in the digital era and aimed to investigate how digital photography influences romantic interactions. This research employed a mixed-method approach which encompassed quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews. The analysis of observed romantic photographs revealed the prevalent use of techniques such as selfies, candid shots, and symbolic elements to convey romantic emotions. Findings indicated that 75.4% of participants used digital photography for romantic expression during the courtship process, leveraging platforms like Facebook and Instagram for "flexing" relationships and preserving memories. It was reported that emotional engagement with these photos was significant, evoking feelings of “kilig” and nostalgia among viewers. Digital photography's role in the courtship process was emphasized as an enhancement to modern courtship dynamics, blending traditional sentiment with contemporary visual storytelling on social media.