These Powerful Photos Of Women 'Flip The Bird' At Society's Standards

Julia Busato Photography

Photographer Julia Busato’s “Mannequin Series” is meant to break the mold.

Inspired by Instagram and (briefly) banned by Facebook, the 46-year-old’s body-positive series shines a light on women of all shapes and sizes. It all happens with the help of a unique prop ― a mannequin she had in her closet.

“A friend of mine said she would love to flip the bird at society’s standards so we grabbed the mannequin and started shooting,” Busato told The Huffington Post via email. “From there it just evolved as more people came forward asking to be part of it and answering my requests for volunteers.”

The subjects used in the photos are not all professional models, and are mostly locals from Busato’s town in Guelph, which is in Ontario, Canada. The mannequin used in the photos is nicknamed “Lucy” after Lucille Ball. According to Busato, posing with Lucy helps the women loosen up and laugh during the shoot.

The mannequin also helps people share their stories, which Busato says range from body issues to mental and physical health.

“Each person has their own personal story about how they don’t fit the standards expected from society. It’s not just about weight anymore, its about being happy in your own skin,” the photographer told The Huffington Post.

If there’s one thing people ― and women in particular ― take away from the shoot, Busato hopes that it’ll encourage women to come together in support of each other around the globe.

“I really want to show the world that no matter what size, color, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, physical/mental limitations or social status; we are all women and all strong enough to get through this together,” Busato said. “I just want women to love themselves unconditionally because we are all beautiful in our own way.”

To see more of her photos, scroll through the slideshow below:

CORRECTION: A previous version of this post misstated Guelph’s relationship to the province of Ontario.

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