This photo series project is related to Body Positivity and Natural Beauty. Body Positivity is against social pressures and idealistic beauty standards. Body positivity is a social movement that promotes a positive view of all bodies, regardless of size, shape, skin tone, gender, and physical abilities. The body positivity movement is a powerful agent in challenging and reframing the concept of the ‘ideal body.’
Although body positivity is perceived as the celebration of one’s physical appearance as it is, women are highly motivated to advocate the normalization of body hair, bodily fluids, menstruation, and to challenge preconceived ideas regarding a woman’s appearance.
This photo series focuses on female body standards and female body hair standards(!)
As a plus size woman, or as a woman for that matter, feeling comfortable in your own skin can be a lifelong challenge. We’re told that the only way to have value is to look pleasing, look palatable to others. We’re told that if we don’t fit within the standards set by white colonialism that we aren’t worthy. Taking photos of myself is a way to deconstruct these standards, give them less power, and to celebrate my body. Joy is a revolution, and I encourage everyone to celebrate themselves and give themselves joy with stunning photos. Finding a photographer like Erman, who makes me feel comfortable is a priority. Your photographer should always highlight what makes you unique and bring out what makes you, you.
Alex J.
I was very excited when Erman reached out to me for this positive body hair photoshoot because I want to be a role model for people like me who are uncomfortable with their body hair. I radiant confidence to inspire others.
Learning to love my body hair was not easy. I spent many days out in public ashamed of myself, feeling everyone’s eyes on me as I tried to cover up my legs and pits. But I put years of work into learning to love and accept my body for what it is, and I was eventually able to change my mindset. I don’t exist for other people, I don’t exist for the male gaze, I exist for myself, and I am proud to embrace that.
Ria