“I think self-acceptance is important at any size. People often think their worth is dependent on their jean size.”
Los Angeles–based photographer Samantha Geballe has made an honest and deeply emotional series of self-portraits that express the anxiety about and acceptance of her body.
Samantha Geballe
Over the course of several years, Samantha worked on the project as a way to visualize how she felt her body was perceived by others.
Samantha Geballe
And as a way of expressing the emotional pain and agony in her journey toward self-acceptance.
Samantha Geballe
Samantha writes:
“Part of my motivation is to help others understand one another better. If people don’t relate to others, it becomes easier to discard them.”
Samantha Geballe
“I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been harassed, humiliated, followed and bullied by complete strangers because they didn’t like my body.”
“I have to wonder, would these same strangers treat me this way if they really knew me?”
Samantha Geballe
While working on the project, Samantha began to understand these photos as a way of coping.
And after a gastric bypass surgery helped her manage her weight, she began a new chapter of the project and new start in her own life.
Samantha Geballe
“This phase of self-portrait work is about embracing change. It’s about learning to navigate life without the dysfunction and defense of excess weight.”
Samantha Geballe
“It’s about learning to live in a new body.”
Samantha Geballe
“There is absolutely no denying the fact that life is easier at a smaller, healthier size. I feel privileged to be able to cross my legs and not worry so much about seating situations, fitting in chairs, and fitting in general.”
Samantha Geballe
“I think self-acceptance is important at any size. People often think their worth is dependent on their jean size. I just hope to inspire a conversation about weight and blame.”
Samantha Geballe
