body positivity
Why I don’t believe in
Body Positivity.
In the evolving landscape of self-acceptance and body image, the term “body positivity” has gained significant traction. However, as a Vancouver portrait photographer deeply committed to authentic self-expression and challenging societal norms for all humans, I find myself questioning the efficacy of this movement. Is it possible that the concept of body positivity, in its current form, inadvertently perpetuates the very standards it seeks to dismantle?
The body positivity movement began with the noble intention of challenging unrealistic beauty standards and promoting acceptance of all body types, sounds good right?! Yet, over time, it seems to have been co-opted, often emphasizing appearance over genuine self-acceptance, not quite what you thought hey. This shift can lead to “toxic positivity,” where individuals feel pressured to maintain a positive body image at all times, potentially suppressing valid feelings of discomfort or dissatisfaction
While the body positivity movement initially aimed to challenge unrealistic beauty standards (yay!), it has often been co-opted in ways that fail to address its deeper roots (boo!). The movement, largely propelled by white feminists, has often overlooked the intersectional realities of body discrimination. Fatphobia is not just about size—it is deeply tied to racism, colonialism, and white supremacy.
Historically, Eurocentric beauty standards have demonized larger bodies, particularly those of Black, Indigenous, and other marginalized communities. By failing to center the voices of those most affected by fatphobia—Black women, queer folks, disabled individuals, and other marginalized identities—the mainstream body positivity movement has, in many ways, upheld the very oppression it claims to fight against
As a Vancouver boudoir photographer, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of intimate portrait sessions. These sessions are not merely about capturing aesthetically pleasing (and sexy af!) images but about facilitating a journey toward self-acceptance and liberation. They provide a safe space for individuals, including those seeking plus-size boudoir experiences or simply getting in front of a camera, to confront and embrace their vulnerabilities, leading to profound personal growth.
It’s essential to recognize that feelings of discomfort with one’s body are valid and can coexist with self-love. We live in a society that bombards us with conflicting messages—telling us to shrink ourselves to fit narrow beauty standards while also demanding we exude relentless self-confidence. This pressure to always “love your body” can feel exhausting and even isolating.
By acknowledging these feelings, we can foster a more authentic form of body acceptance that doesn’t rely on constant positivity. This approach aligns with the principles of body neutrality, which emphasizes valuing one’s body for its functions and experiences rather than its appearance.
In my practice as a Vancouver portrait photographer, I encourage clients to explore this nuanced perspective. Through personalized portrait sessions, we work together to create images that aim to reflect their true selves, free from societal expectations.
This process is particularly empowering for plus-size individuals, as it challenges the narrow definitions of beauty that dominate mainstream media.
So here’s the deal the way I see it, while the body positivity movement has indeed sparked essential conversations about self-love and acceptance, it’s absolutely crucial to approach it critically. By embracing a more nuanced understanding of body image, we can move toward genuine self-acceptance and collective liberation.
As a Vancouver photographer dedicated to capturing the authentic essence of my clients, I am committed to supporting this journey through honest, raw, and inspiring portraiture that doesn’t give a shit about conformity.
If you’re interested in exploring this journey of self-acceptance through personalized portrait photography, feel free to reach out. Together, we can create some badass empowering images that celebrate your unique beauty and story.