These inspiring women are pushing back against societal beauty norms and reclaiming their identities. Remember the carefree days of childhood when your body felt like your own? You ran, played, and embraced every moment without a second thought. But as you transition into girlhood, the world imposes labels and judgments that strip away that sense of ownership. Just like the courageous women featured in this powerful photoshoot, many of us eventually realize it’s time to take back our bodies and our narratives.
The project, titled “Don’t Label Me,” was created by Abigail Spencer and Meg Bishop, the dynamic duo behind Salt and Light Photography in Grants Pass, Oregon. Their goal? To highlight the harmful impact of derogatory words and to remind us that we are so much more than mere labels.
The photoshoot features seven incredible women, each with their own unique journeys and struggles. They were asked to write the hurtful words they’ve been labeled with on their skin—terms like “useless,” “crazy,” “damaged,” and “fat.” The photographers shared, “We have yet to meet a woman who is completely at ease in her own skin. We’ve all faced name-calling, objectification, and judgments based on our appearance.”
The women also expressed their frustration towards unrealistic beauty standards—those expectations that make us feel we need to conform to a narrow definition of beauty. “To hell with contouring and filters! We are mothers, sisters, and friends. We are strong and united. From now on, we will be unapologetically confident,” they proclaimed.
Personal Stories of Resilience
One participant, Lila Johnson, was diagnosed with a skin condition called Vitiligo at a young age. As her condition progressed, she faced relentless teasing. “I tried so hard to fit in, but it never felt like enough. I hated being different,” she recalled. “Now, I embrace my uniqueness. I wouldn’t trade it for anything!”
Another participant, Sarah Greene, reflects on her life-changing car accident, which led her to redefine what it means to be “handicapped.” “I’ve turned obstacles into opportunities. I want to transform the label of handicapped into ‘handicapable’,” she shared. Defying doctors’ predictions, she has built a fulfilling life, including raising three children.
Similarly, Mia Carter has faced her share of hurtful labels. Growing up, she was often called “the fat girl.” She also bravely endured racially charged comments, but she’s determined to prioritize self-love. “No matter what they say, I will always love myself first,” Mia affirmed.
Tina Lewis, who battled bullying and poverty, struggled with her self-worth for years. “I’m here to show that regardless of your upbringing or looks, you can overcome anything,” she stated, embodying resilience.
Finally, Candice Thompson, a survivor of abuse, shared her journey of healing. “I am fat, yes, but that’s just a label. I am so much more than that,” she said, emphasizing her intelligence and creativity.
After being photographed with their labels, the women smeared the words off their bodies, turning the negativity into vibrant art. The photographers, Spencer and Bishop, were motivated by their own experiences with self-image. They envisioned “Don’t Label Me” as a way to empower every woman to feel beautiful, breaking the mold of traditional beauty standards.
“This is about being real and raw. Here’s to the ‘fat,’ ‘skinny,’ ‘black,’ ‘white,’ and everyone in between. Let’s embrace our true selves and say, ‘DON’T LABEL ME!’”
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In summary, the “Don’t Label Me” photoshoot is a powerful statement against societal labels, encouraging women to embrace their true selves and redefine beauty on their own terms.
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