“BIGGER” is a new photo book project and the third book release by portrait photographer Joseph Wolfgang Ohlert. The book focuses on men of stocky or larger stature. Ohlert aims to contribute to making images of larger or thicker individuals more visible. Many men feel insecure and lack self-confidence because they do not see themselves represented in the media. However, as we become accustomed to images of diverse bodies, we can all feel more liberated. The book features around 80 portraits and various personal texts by five writers, spanning approximately 200 pages.

The book showcases men with stocky builds. There are numerous terms for this: “bear, cub, chubby, husky, fat, plump, big & tall, curvy, thick,” and so on. With a natural and matter-of-fact approach, I want to show the variety of bodies that are worth capturing.

In general, the topic of “bigger men” is gradually emerging in the media. Model agencies are looking for “big & tall,” the male equivalent of “plus-size & curvy,” and fashion magazines are featuring bodies outside the traditional mainstream beauty ideal of “fit, athletic, and toned.” Campaigns are promoting diversity. There is a shift happening. This topic is not new, but it’s alarming that it can still be challenging for larger individuals to feel represented.

When it comes to self-love and self-perception, there is often silence or ridicule, especially for men. This can lead to depression and create a vicious cycle. Many men believe they are not allowed to feel sexy or desirable. Shame plays a significant role. Our society struggles to love itself, as self-love is often mistaken for vanity. The desire to feel beautiful is hidden beneath layers of toxic masculinity or predefined, limited male role models.

Even some well-conditioned athletes who strive for “more” every day are often unhappy and dissatisfied. A goal cannot be achieved if one does not value themselves enough.

By Joseph Wolfgang Ohlert
Pre-order and support the project HERE.