BANGERS & SMASH

I found the piece Steven Meisel shot for W magazine in the September 2011 issue particularly inspiring. Entitled ‘Transformers” (No, not the robotic automative kind), it highlights the transformation that models undergo when preparing for a photo shoot. 

“Because the “model off duty” look is often as inspiring as the polished fashion pic” - Karen Elson

To me it is truly remarkable how completely different the models can look in each image, using only the tools of make up and styling. In my eyes, this only helps to prove what grand illusions the fashion industry can create. 

As I often found myself saying about images I had published…. “Its all smoke and mirrors, darling!”

(Source: wmagazine.com)

Every celebrities nightmare… UNRETOUCHED PHOTOS! 

Well, I don’t mind sharing with you guys the ‘before & after’ versions of a shoot I did recently. I think it just highlights the capabilities of retouching. The red squiggles are the notes for where the re toucher should pay particular attention. Ive had my thighs slimmed down, my hips made narrower, the skin tone on my face and stomach evened, and my arm pit and elbow softened.

It seems absurd how the tiniest lumps and bumps are erased in one simple click, and yet also, that they feel the need to change it in the first place!

Im happy I reach for second helpings when we have dinner, I love me some cheese!!! And you often have to wrestle a glass of red wine out of my hands. But I do it all in moderation! 

In my last personal trainer analysis I was told I had 17% body fat, which for my age, puts my in the ‘healthy’ bracket. And yet, here we are, still having my body digitally altered.

What defines the perfect figure? Who dictates how a body looks most appealing? Personally, I think its those curves that make me unique, they are part of me and I’m proud to have them.