Transformations through the Lens: Marcos Alberti's “Three Glasses” Project

In the intricate world of photography and wine, a unique intersection is found in Marcos Alberti's photographic series, "Three Glasses." Initially conceived as a light-hearted experiment among friends, this series has rapidly evolved into a viral phenomenon, transcending the boundaries of mere entertainment. The project offers a captivating visual exploration of the subtle transformations people undergo after consuming one, two, and three glasses of wine.

The genesis of "Three Glasses" traces back to a casual gathering of Alberti with his friends. The concept was straightforward: to capture photographs of participants immediately after a workday, and then successively after each glass of wine. This approach aimed not only to document the evolution of their expressions and emotions but also to provide a playful perspective on how wine can influence our mood and appearance.

The dynamics of the project were simple yet effective. The initial photograph was taken as the guests arrived at Alberti's studio, reflecting the stress and fatigue of a full workday and the tensions of rush-hour traffic. This image served as a baseline, a starting point from which to observe subsequent changes. After each glass of wine, a new photograph was taken, unadorned and without forced poses, just a face and a wall as a backdrop.

The impact of the "Three Glasses" project was immediate and overwhelming. Following its publication on the platform Imgur by the user minabear, the series garnered over a million views and around 1,800 comments in its first week. This unexpected success led Alberti to expand his project, including not just his friends but also other volunteers willing to participate in this photographic experiment.

What makes "Three Glasses" so appealing to the public? The answer seems to lie in the universality of its theme. Many people can identify with the idea of coming home after a long day of work and seeking a moment of relaxation, often accompanied by a glass of wine. Alberti's photographs capture this transformation process in an authentic and relatable manner, demonstrating how wine can act as a social and emotional decompressor.

It's crucial to note that Alberti's project does not seek to glorify alcohol consumption. Instead, it offers a playful yet introspective look at how small amounts of wine can influence our behavior and expression. The images reveal a progression in which initial stiffness and fatigue give way to greater relaxation and emotional openness.

In a world where the digital image is often carefully curated and manipulated, "Three Glasses" stands out for its honesty and simplicity. There are no filters or retouches; just real people experiencing a genuine change, frame by frame. This authenticity is perhaps what has resonated with so many viewers around the globe, turning Alberti's project into a viral phenomenon with an underlying message: sometimes, the simplest things can be the most revealing.