In 2016, Marcos Alberti gained attention with his project called “3 Glasses,” in which he photographed individuals after they had one, two, and three glasses of wine. This series highlighted how relaxed people can look physically after drinking. Many have wondered if they appear as different as they feel after having a bit of alcohol, and the series confirmed that they do.
In 2017, Alberti launched another project similar to “3 Glasses,” focusing on a less talked-about topic: women’s sexual wellness. The project involved taking photos of women before, during, and after an orgasm, leading him to name it the “O” project.
Alberti emphasized that the aim was not to be explicit or erotic. The more than 20 women who took part came from various backgrounds, including those from countries known for their sexual openness, like the U.S. and France, as well as more conservative places like China and Singapore. They were all covered below the waist and used personal massagers during the shoot. Alberti stated that the core message was about women’s right to control their sexuality, regardless of their backgrounds.
Fan Yang, the former Global Brand Manager of Smile Makers, a brand that collaborated with Alberti, mentioned that the goal was to challenge stigma and present female pleasure positively. They hope to encourage society to normalize female pleasure, allowing women to embrace their sexuality openly. According to Yang, all the participants were amazed at their own glowing appearances in the final photographs.
A video on YouTube offered a behind-the-scenes view of Alberti’s work. It showed him welcoming the models, setting up his camera behind a curtain for privacy, and making the participants feel comfortable. The sense of wonder expressed by the women was clear, with one stating that, despite initial nerves, her final image made her feel happy about life.
This project highlights the importance of female pleasure, which is a key aspect of women’s overall well-being. While some research suggests a link between sexual wellness and benefits like reduced stress and improved confidence, the real impact is evident when viewing the photographs. Alberti’s work shows the raw honesty of the experience, prompting discussions about it with more empathy.
To see more of Alberti’s projects, follow him on Instagram at @marcos_alberti. What are your thoughts on this project?
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Source: Upworthy, by Heather Wake