#StartnextCampaign – Joseph Wolfgang Ohlert, the renowned portrait photographer, is set to release his third book, “BIGGER,” a groundbreaking project that aims to celebrate men with stocky or larger builds. In a world that often lacks representation of diverse body types, Ohlert seeks to make images of these individuals more visible and empower them with a sense of self-confidence and acceptance.
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find out more via @jwo_studio / @josephwolfgangohlert
The book, spanning approximately 200 pages, features around 80 captivating portraits and is accompanied by personal texts written by five talented authors. With a natural and matter-of-fact approach, Ohlert skillfully captures the beauty and variety of bodies that deserve admiration and recognition.
In recent years, the media’s perception of “bigger men” has been gradually evolving. Model agencies now actively seek individuals who fall under the “big & tall” category, which is equivalent to the female “plus-size & curvy” category. Fashion magazines are also embracing bodies that do not conform to the traditional mainstream beauty ideal of being “fit, athletic, and toned.” These changes signify a growing shift towards promoting diversity and inclusivity in our society.
However, it remains disheartening that larger individuals still struggle to find representation and acceptance. Many men experience feelings of insecurity and a lack of self-confidence because they rarely see themselves reflected in the media. The societal stigma surrounding body size and appearance often leads to depression and a destructive cycle of self-doubt.
The issue of self-love and self-perception, particularly for men, is often met with silence or even ridicule. It becomes a challenging task for them to embrace their beauty and feel desirable. Shame plays a significant role in perpetuating these negative feelings. As a society, we must recognize that self-love is not synonymous with vanity, but rather an essential aspect of overall well-being.
Even individuals who seemingly possess the “ideal” physique, such as well-conditioned athletes, often find themselves unhappy and dissatisfied. True personal growth and fulfilment can only be achieved when one values themselves unconditionally.
Joseph Wolfgang Ohlert’s “BIGGER” challenges these societal norms and invites us to celebrate the beauty found in all body types. By showcasing the diversity of larger individuals, the project emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and self-love. As we become more accustomed to images that represent a broad spectrum of bodies, we can all feel more liberated and embrace our unique selves.
With “BIGGER,” Joseph Wolfgang Ohlert aims to spark a dialogue about body inclusivity, empowering individuals to love themselves just as they are. This groundbreaking photo book offers a glimpse into the lives and experiences of men who have long been underrepresented in the media. Let us embrace the diversity of the human form and appreciate the beauty that exists in every shape and size.
www.startnext.com/photobook-bigger-by-jwo-studio
