The catalyst for this little missive, I must admit, is Bruce's recent series of NSFW semi-nudes. That being said, it's not directed specifically to or at Bruce. It's more a comment on the whole female nude thing. Others have posted similar photos in the past and likely will do so again.
My problem, of course, is the objectification of women. And it's not because they're sexualized by showing "dirty parts". It's because there's such a huge disparity between male nudes and female nudes. As in: there has never been a male nude shown here (that I've seen in some thirteen years). I don't believe I've ever seen a penis here. A couple of years ago someone posted a few photos that appeared to have been semi-erotic (but not nude) gay pin-ups. The only comment I recall was something to the effect that, "all I see here is gay soft-core porn". No comments about the technical aspects of the shots, the nice light, nothing. I stand accused and guilty myself. I only mention that because there seems to be a double standard here: it's okay to show female sexuality but not male. And I wonder why? I understand that an individual photographer will say, "But I don't want to photograph male nudes. As a straight male I just don't appreciate male nudity, erotic or otherwise. It's my right to choose to photograph only female nudes." Fair enough. And yes, the female nudes shown here have been tasteful and relatively discreet. Nothing gratuitous. But here's the rub: showing genitalia and breasts is sexual. It sexualizes the women. Even if they consent to it they are being portrayed in such a way that shows them as primarily sexual persons which takes away from other aspects of their being. I know that sexuality is a part of our adult lives. However until there is some balance between portrayal of the genders I can't support female nudes. Because until that happens females will be sexualized and males won't be. And I just don't think that's right. I'm not trying to stop anyone from posting female nudes. But I won't encourage it by commenting (except in the rarest of circumstances). In closing, I'm no prude. And I'm sure I'll be accused of spouting the politically correct lefty party line. So be it. What I'm really doing is expressing my personal opinion. Thanks for you indulgence. Cheers, frank “Analysis kills spontaneity.” -- Henri-Frederic Amiel -- PDML Pentax-Discuss Mail List [email protected] http://pdml.net/mailman/listinfo/pdml_pdml.net to UNSUBSCRIBE from the PDML, please visit the link directly above and follow the directions.
