Valerie's Inspiring Journey: Embracing Myself After 40 through photography session

Valerie shares her story about discovering herself through photos. The pictures focus on women over 40, showing their true selves. In her heartfelt talk, she talks about how the process goes beyond what society expects. At Depiction Portraits by Diana, I specialize in making the photo experience unique for women like Valerie. We don't just take pictures—we also meet in person to reveal and discuss the photos together. Additionally, I create personalized designs to make each woman's photo session truly special and tailored to her individual style and personality. It's all about capturing the core of each person in a way that goes beyond just taking pictures.

Joining the 40 over 40 Project: Seeking a Different Perspective

Valerie's decision to join the project stems from a desire to see herself through a different lens. Initially focused on showcasing her strength and sexiness, she discovers that there's more to her identity than meets the eye. She wanted to see herself in a different way, so she joined a project for women over 40. At first, it was hard for her to look at 183 pictures of herself. She didn't think it was necessary, but Diana was patient and kind. As they went through the pictures, Valerie started to see more than just being strong and sexy. It was uncomfortable for her, but the helper encouraged her to look at each picture, shared favorites, and asked questions. By the time they got to 58 pictures, Valerie was tired, but Diana kept her focused, calling her a piece of art, not just a regular picture.

“I was looking for someone to capture my “and”. I wanted to see me through a different lens - literally and figuratively. Looking at 183 photos of me was not easy. It felt like too much. It felt like overkill. It felt so uncomfortable to think someone else had also suffered through all those pictures. Because when we started, I was still firmly rooted in the belief that looking at me for that long was ridiculous. You didn’t rush me though. You pushed me in a caring and safe way to look at each one. You shared your favorites. You asked me questions. You were patient with me as I unrooted my beliefs about how I should look. When we got to 58, I wasn’t sure I had the energy to keep going. It had already been almost an hour. But again, you nurtured me and kept me focused. You kept calling me a piece of art. Not a piece of work - a piece of art. Something beautiful.”- Valerie

The 9 Frame Reveal

One particularly special part of our sessions is the creation of a 9-picture frame, customized exclusively for each client. For Valerie, this collection showcased all the different sides of her personality—playful, sexy, coy, sincere, and joyful. As she looked at this frame, it hit her that it captured all parts of herself in one picture, bringing out strong emotions. The 9-up photos became a clear representation, offering solid proof of the beautiful complexity and richness of Valerie's identity, showing the different layers of who she is.

“Then we viewed the 9 frame. Something you created for me. Looking at the pictures was emotional, but I didn’t know why until you texted me. It was/is emotional because the 9 frame captures exactly what I asked you for. It is all of my “ands”. It is my playful, sexy, coy, sincere, joyful, all of me. In one piece. When I was able to finally name this, I broke down into tears. It is the manifestation and physical evidence of all of me.”-Valerie

Valerie's Role in the Campaign

I would also like to highlight the profound impact of this experience on her. She not only felt exceptionally well-cared-for but also genuinely noticed. The depth of this encounter left her so moved that she graciously approached me, extending an offer to be the Master of Ceremonies (MC) at my inaugural gala.

It was an unexpected and heartwarming gesture, demonstrating her connection to both me and the project. The fact that she not only wanted to be involved but also expressed her willingness to introduce both me and the project with a beautiful testimony was truly an honor for me. It underscored the meaningful connections and the power of shared experiences that can lead to collaborations rooted in genuine support and appreciation.

Valerie's Insights on Being Over 40

Valerie shares her perspective on the best thing about being over 40 — a sense of finally coming into her power. She said “I feel as though I’m finally coming into my power.” Her journey becomes an inspiration for others to embrace the aging process with confidence and self-assurance.

Valerie's Unique Superpower

Valerie identifies one of her superpowers as the ability to recreate herself at different phases of life. “I think one of my superpowers is recreating myself at different times in my life.” This adaptability and willingness to change contribute to her resilience and growth as an individual.

Valerie's Pleasure and Passion

Valerie finds immense pleasure in feeding other people, highlighting the joy derived from acts of kindness. Her passion for nurturing extends beyond her immediate circle, embodying the spirit of giving.

Conclusion

Through her words and experiences, she invites us to reflect on the beauty that lies in embracing the full spectrum of our identities, finding strength in vulnerability, and, ultimately, dancing to the rhythm of our own authentic selves. The 40 Over 40 Portrait Session at Depiction Portraits promises an unforgettable experience. It's a celebration of life, a recognition of self, and a timeless reflection of the beauty that flourishes over 40.

All the best,

Diana