Former U.S. Marine Joel Pares cautions us about the dangers of "judging a book by its cover," in his new series 'Judging America.'
The Dallas-based photographer seeks to question long-held prejudices on race, sexual orientation and socioeconomic status that seem to run rampant and unchecked in our culture. Pares photographs his subjects twice: once, in a way where they personify a prevalent stereotype, and the other where they are photographed as themselves. The two portraits, which are shown side by side, present the prejudice against the reality in a striking way; one that might have you thinking twice before labeling a stranger.
The powerful series demonstrates that coming to conclusions about others, before we know the full story, can be damaging and painful.
Stereotype-Challenging Portraits
'Judging America' Reveals Ingrained Prejudices
Trend Themes
1. Stereotype-challenging Portraits - Opportunity to challenge and question long-held prejudices through visual storytelling.
2. Questioning Prejudices - Using photography to reveal and dissect societal stereotypes.
3. Reframing Perception - Highlighting the dangers of judging others based solely on appearances through powerful dual portraits.
Industry Implications
1. Photography - Innovative techniques and approaches in photography that challenge societal norms and perceptions.
2. Social Justice - Creating awareness and prompting conversations about biases and prejudices in society.
3. Education - Developing curriculum and resources that promote empathy and understanding by examining stereotypes and prejudices.