Body Positivity vs Body Neutrality

You might have heard of the terms ‘’body positivity’’ and ‘’body neutrality’’. But what do these terms actually mean and what is the difference between them?

As a photographer, I believe that both body positivity and body neutrality can be powerful tools to create a truly beautiful and empowering experience for my clients. I recognise that every person’s journey with self-love and/or acceptance is different. Through my work as a photographer, this mindset is present in every single session; I focus on celebrating who my client is, inside and out. 

What is the body-positive movement?

Body positivity refers to the movement that all people deserve to have a positive body image, regardless of how society views are on what the ideal shape, size, and appearance is. For a lot of people, body positivity feels liberating. It can be a freeing space for people to take joy, and pride, in feeling truly beautiful exactly as they are.

But it also carries the weight of becoming a place of toxic ideals. The movement can fall short because it can also reinforce the ideas already held in a very beauty-obsessed society. That someone needs to deem themselves beautiful, in order to feel worthy. Making body positivity a shiny new wrapper, while actually still encouraging societal beauty standards.

What is the body neutrality movement?

But then what is body neutrality? This movement aims to create a world that does not hyper-focus on the way a person looks. It rejects the idea that the ‘’perfect’’ body exists and instead focuses on celebrating all body types, gender identities, and appearances. People who practice body neutrality often believe in experiencing joy and celebration in the fact that their bodies simply exist, and work to separate that celebration from what their bodies look like. There is more emphasis put on the fact that you have a body, that it is worthy, but that you are also so much more than just a body.

For many of us feeling ‘’positive’’ about our bodies, or ‘’loving’’ our bodies can just seem like a step too far away. We all have those days when we perhaps just don’t feel that great about ourselves or not feel confident. And that is okay. Being able to accept that you have a body, that it’s good no matter what, and realising that you are an amazing person; that conveniently has a body to experience life through.

How does this affect my photography?
I view every person as a unique individual, who should be viewed as such without judgment or criticism. Since every person’s journey is different; I take core aspects from both movements and apply them to my art. With my work, I aim to celebrate every single body. Hence why I don’t airbrush my photographs or offer professional hair and makeup; I’m here to show you that you are enough; simply by just showing up as you are right now.

What if I struggle with my body image during my photo session?

It is completely normal to feel nervous before your photo shoot, or perhaps for some negative feelings to creep up in the days leading up to the shoot, they might even make an appearance during the shoot itself. I do my best to look for cues that someone might feel uncomfortable or worried, but please don’t hesitate to speak up and let me know that you are struggling. As always I will do my best to ensure you are as comfortable as possible, and I will never pressure you to pose in a way that you are not comfortable with. I always take my time with getting to know someone and treat you to as many cups of a hot beverage as you like until you feel ready to step in front of the lens. I’m just simply here, to celebrate the wonderful you.