Was photographing certain parts of your body ever difficult for you? How did you overcome this?
Brielle Anyea: For me, it was my back. I'm very broad in the shoulders and have my plenty share of back rolls, too. It took some praying and getting uncomfortable to get comfortable shooting. To help me be OK with it, I started wearing backless outfits in the mirror, then outside with a jacket, and then outside without a jacket. It took me three years to get to that point! I can love something but not like it. If I want to change it, that's perfectly fine too. Whatever I do on my body or for my body, it's because I want to, and that's nobody's business but mine. Just know that I love me regardless!
"We all have good and bad days, but on some of my bad days, I still have to show up to set and shoot."
Hayley Hasselhoff: Yes and no. It is part of my job to find ways to let go of how Hayley feels about her body and remember I am there to do a job. We all have good and bad days, but on some of my bad days, I still have to show up to set and shoot. With this, I have gotten very good [about bringing] along things that help me reconnect to my being while I'm in the makeup chair, and can prep my mindset. I use crystals, essential oils and affirmations. I feel very blessed that most of [the] shoots I have been on have always been very welcoming and [encourage me] to feel great in my figure. I love what I do so much, and remember on the bad days that I am never alone. I am here for a purpose to make a change in equality in fashion.
Tess Holliday: I never thought there would be a point in my life where I would be able to look at my naked body and feel anything other than disgust. I have multiple full length mirrors in my house, and there were times even recently where I caught myself not loving what I saw, but then I checked myself quick [and said] "stop that shit." I started believing that I was worthy of loving my body. That was the only thing that changed. I think we are sold the idea that if we love ourselves, everything will fall into place. Once you realise that's not true, it's a lot easier to shift into a more loving space towards yourself. Also, people that love themselves and their bodies can simultaneously really dislike parts of themselves, and we have to allow space towards forgiving ourselves, and being kinder and more gentle. The road towards loving your body will never be perfect, but hopefully we can change society to make it easier for generations to come.
Chloe Marshall: I have my down days where I don't like certain things [on my body], but more and more, those days are very few and far between. I have focussed so much of my energy on body acceptance and confidence over the years.