What Archetypes Are (Psychologically & Symbolically)
Archetypes, as defined by Swiss psychiatrist Carl Jung, are “Universal, inborn models of personality, behavior, and thought that reside in the collective unconscious. They are not specific, inherited ideas, but rather "empty" templates or innate tendencies to form recurring images, symbols, and motifs that appear across cultures and time.” A great trio of example is the Maiden, Mother and Crone. When we talk about these figures, many of us automatically get visual ideas and symbols of what these archetypes represent.
Popular Archetypes in Empowerment Portraits
There are so many fabulous archetypes to choose from with portrait photography but a few that come to mind are the Goddess, Witch, Queen, Main Character, Warrior, and Siren.
Goddess: Goddess archetypes represent diverse, powerful, and often contradictory aspects of the feminine psyche, channeling themes of autonomy, creativity, nurturing, and transformation.
Witch: The witch archetype represents an untamable, independent, and powerful feminine force operating outside societal norms. Key themes include the reclaiming of personal power, deep connection to nature and intuition, and the shadow aspects of the psyche.
Queen: The Queen archetype represents the pinnacle of mature feminine power, centering on themes of sovereign leadership, unshakable confidence, and the responsible stewardship of one's "kingdom" (career, family, or community). She embodies grace, wisdom, and strategic vision, often acting as a protective, nurturing, yet authoritative force.
Main Character: Main character archetypes are recurring, universal story roles representing fundamental human experiences, primarily driven by themes of personal growth, transformation, and purpose. Key themes include the hero’s journey (quest and return), the orphan’s pursuit of belonging, the creator’s need for expression, and the seeker’s quest for truth.
Warrior: The Warrior archetype represents courage, discipline, and action, driven by a commitment to protect boundaries and pursue high-stakes goals with integrity. It embodies focused energy to face adversity—both internal and external—using strategy rather than raw aggression. Key themes include service to a cause, unwavering loyalty, resilience in conflict, and the pursuit of honor.
Siren: The Siren archetype embodies themes of dangerous enchantment, irresistible temptation, and profound, often destructive, allure. Rooted in myth, she represents the "dark feminine" power to lure others toward hidden, subconscious desires, acting as a catalyst for deep transformation, death, or, sometimes, resurrection.
There are so many more than just these examples! I’d love to hear which archetypes (mentioned above or not) that resonate with you.
Choosing an Archetype Based on Life Season
One of the things I love about archetypes is that they often change from season to season but can also give us a way of expressing a particular season in life. Overcoming adversity? Warrior babe. New to motherhood? The Mother. Perimenopause and taking back your life? Witch or Queen. Are you feeling the change of this life season? Maybe you’re hitting a milestone or just transitioning into a new phase. Whatever the reason is, an archetype is a great way to channel some of the emotions, feelings and stories that you’re experiencing in this season. Maybe it’s just putting a sword in your hand to bring the fierceness you’ve been feeling to the forefront, maybe it’s putting a tangible crown on instead of the invisible one you wear every damn day.
How Archetypes Free Self-Expression
The point is that archetypes allow YOU to let it all the fuck out. Let the power, the ferocity, the rage, the joy, the BECOMING out into the portraits. For some of us, that’s easier by playing a part. And archetypes are just the place to get some really damn good ideas!
Blending Multiple Archetypes in One Session
But maybe you’re like, “Beth, none of these speak to me.” That’s totally okay! Maybe there’s a different archetype that works for you right now or maybe you’re a blend of several. Honestly most days I’m a witch goddess warrior with a touch of Queen. The best thing about creative portraits is they are just that, creative!
If you’re lost or needing to talk though what archetype you want to channel in your session, that’s what I’m here for! I love to help clients step into their power and what works specifically for their season.
