Finding Beauty in Authenticity: A Conversation with Esther Honig

Human-interest journalist, Esther Honig wanted to investigate whether there is a single global beauty standard. To find out, she sent out a photo of herself via a freelance website and asked Photoshop users around the world to “make her beautiful” by using their personal and cultural beauty standards.

The results are fascinating, became a social media sensation, and prove just how impossible striving for idealized beauty really is. Listen in as Esther and I chat about the power Photoshop images have to impact our self-esteem and mental and physical health, and the freedom of finding beauty in authenticity.

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View all of Esther’s “Before and After” photos.

For more information and tips on building a positive body image and embracing the beauty in imperfection, visit the archives at ExperienceLife.com.

Heidi Wachter is the Community Engagement Specialist for Experience Life.

Photos used by permission of Esther Honig.