In My Skin

What does it mean to be a woman? From all sides, one is told what it means. Be strong, be confident, be yourself. The question, although old and seemingly worn out, remains relevant. In a capitalist world geared towards answering every tempting query with a transaction, it’s most important to feel good about oneself and find one’s own path. Who is the essence of you? Feeling comfortable in your own skin is one important step to get to the core of oneself.

In her current work, In My Skin, photographer Anouk Brouwer explores exactly this question. Together with her muse, they aim to send out a love letter to all women, as they are on a quest to discover the essence of being a woman. Special thanks to MockFlower and Honey Birdette. Shooting Location is in The Netherlands.

Photographer ANOUK:

“In My Skin” is a visual love letter to all women, celebrating the core of my womanhood; soft, sensual & confident. In a way, I feel like every photograph I take is a self-portrait ; through the lens I am looking for the beauty inside myself. The collaboration with the model added a unique touch to this series. Her openness and trust created a special synergy, allowing us to capture moments that resonate with the essence of being a woman.

Muse:

These photos show how I got to explore a part of myself that has always been there, and finally found the courage to express. I have come a long way with my body image, so the level of comfort in my own body and the confidence these photos exude are the product of years of learning to accept myself. To think I used to not even be able to look at my naked body in the mirror without breaking down, and I am now comfortable to pose in front of a camera like this, is a tell-tale sign of how self-acceptance can change your life and let you be your true self. I have fallen in love with myself, my body, these curves, and with these photos I want to encourage every woman to embrace their bodies, their sensuality and sexuality. If you find yourself held back by fear or societal expectations, gather up the courage to discover all parts of yourself and never be afraid to express them.