woman over 40 during her 40 Over 40 photoshoot in Tampa Florida

40 Over 40: 6 Ways To Celebrate Being a Woman Over 40

In a world often obsessing over youth, it’s high time we shine the spotlight on the wisdom, experience, and beauty that comes with age.

As a woman over 40, I’m not gonna lie – sometimes I get bummed out! Just take a look at TV, a movie, or a magazine; it seems like women over 40 don’t exist! This is why Brent (my husband) and I decided to celebrate women with our 40 Over 40 Portrait Experience.

Our goal with this photography campaign is to capture the fabulousness of women over 40 and all we have to offer!

We’ve photographed:

Doctors
Accountants
Dog rescue founders
Medal-winning runners
And more!

We’re celebrating our clients’ wisdom, experience, achievements, and beauty. With so much focus being on the young, it’s high time we focus on the glory that is a woman over 40!

6 Ways for Women to Celebrate Life Over 40

It’s time to change the negative stereotypes associated with aging. A great way to break these stereotypes is by giving women over 40 a chance to share their stories.

But before I get into our 40 Over 40 Portrait Experience, let’s talk about other ways you can celebrate life now that you’re a woman over 40.

Because age is not a barrier to achieving your dreams.

Whether it’s starting a new business, pursuing higher education, or changing cities, you have the power to defy expectations and create your own narrative.

Here’s how:

1. Embrace New Adventures and Reinvent Yourself

40-over-40 photoshoot: brunette woman sitting on the ground in lounge clothing smiling at the camera

Your life looks different at 40, just like you’re life at 30 was different from life at 20.

It’s time to embrace change and live the life you want to live.

I mean, who says you can’t reinvent yourself in your 40s, 50s, or 60s? This is the perfect time to explore uncharted territories. Here are some ideas:

Go on that solo trip you’ve been dreaming of;
Take a spontaneous road trip with your girl friends, partner, or kids;
Dive into that hobby you’ve always been curious about, such as photography (it’s a lot of fun), sailing, quilting;
Unleash your creativity in a way you’ve never done before (write, paint, or dance);
Pursue a new career path.

The world is your playground. Step out of your comfort zone and go on an adventure.

You’ve earned it.

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2. Redefine Beauty Standards

woman over 40 with pink/purple hair, wearing a nice blue blouse for her 40-over-40 photography shoot

One thing I love about the younger generation is they’re beginning to realize there is nothing shameful about sharing your natural beauty.

More of these young women are showing their period-bloated bellies, laugh lines, and cellulite. And why not?!

It’s time for you to join them. Post a photo on Instagram (no need for filters) and remind yourself that confidence is your most radiant accessory.

In a world obsessed with unrealistic beauty standards, women over 40 have the power to redefine what true beauty means.

It’s about embracing your unique features, loving your laugh lines as reminders of joy, and appreciating the strength and resilience that comes with age.

3. Celebrate Achievements, Big and Small

woman over 40 feeling confident in her gold dangly earrings and detailed black and gold mesh top

Stop focusing on what you haven’t achieved yet. I want you to tell me what you’ve accomplished!

Whether it’s raising a family, excelling in your career, starting a business, pursuing your passions, moving to a new area, thriving after a divorce, or recovering from an illness— every achievement deserves a round of applause.

Take a moment to reflect on all the fantastic things you’ve accomplished in your 40s and beyond. Now, share it with me! I really want to hear about it. Write in the comments below or share your story with the other women in our 40 OVer 40 VIP Lounge.

You’ve come a long way, baby, and you’re just getting started. Share your success stories with others.

You never know who you’re going to inspire.

4. Cultivate Connections and Build a Supportive Tribe

Jennifer of Golden Ears Sanctuary with her Turkey, Eddie

Let’s not forget the power of sisterhood and support. Another great reason to check out our VIP Lounge!

Connecting with other women who are experiencing the same joys and challenges as you can be so cathartic. It’s hard to make friends as an adult, but there’s no shortage of support groups out there.

Whether you join a 40-Over-40 Facebook group, dive into the world of Bumble BFF, or join a local hobby group, building connections will enrich your life in countless ways.

Now is the time to finally surround yourself with a tribe of strong, like-minded women who lift you up, inspire you, and celebrate your journey alongside theirs.

5. Embrace Self-Care and Well-Being

gorgeous woman over 40 during her photoshoot; she has black/gray hair and is wearing a black and teal top which matches the backdrop

As you navigate your 40s, it’s crucial to prioritize self-care and well-being.

Take time to recharge and nurture your mind, body, and soul. Explore new wellness practices like yoga, meditation, or a spa day. Fuel your body with nutritious food and stay active to maintain your vitality.

Self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential for living your best life and being there for the ones you love.

This is also the age where you can finally ditch the insecurities and embrace self-love and acceptance. You’ve earned every laugh line, every silver strand of hair, and every wrinkle as a badge of honor.

So, stand tall, look in the mirror, and give yourself a big ol’ high-five for being the amazing woman you are.

6. Join the 40 over 40 Photography Campaign

gorgeous blonde woman over 40 during her 40 over 40 photoshoot; she is wearing a pink and white top which matches the pink backdrop

And now on to our BIG idea: the 40-Over-40 photography campaign!

You deserve a platform to show young women time is your greatest asset. You’ve weathered storms, conquered challenges, and learned valuable lessons.

It’s about time you got the opportunity to share your knowledge and wisdom with younger generations.

It’s a dazzling showcase of women who have embraced their age and are rocking it like nobody’s business.

This empowering project captures the essence of women who radiate confidence— even when you don’t think have it. It’s a celebration of the diverse stories, achievements, and dreams of women who are thriving in their 40s and beyond.

You get the chance to be pampered by a hair and makeup stylist, wear some killer outfits, and have your photo taken by my husband, Brent! He’s been at this for over 30 years; he’ll walk you through powerful poses so you’ll finally have pictures of yourself you’ve always dreamed of.

We’ll end your 40-Over-40 Experience with an interview with me— Dawn! I’ll dive deep into our recorded interview to get to know the real you. And you’ll get to walk away with photos you can pass down for generations to come!

Take a moment to browse through what you get with this experience by visiting Angela Clifton Photography. If you feel inspired, fill out the commitment-free form on this page so you can learn more about it!

Conclusion

So, dear women over 40, it’s time to celebrate, embrace, and shine!

Remember, you’re never too old to dream, inspire, and create. The world is your stage, and you’re the star of your own story.

Join the 40 over 40 photography campaign and let the world see the incredible, vibrant, and fierce woman you are.

May 17, 2023

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Prepping for an engagement, maternity, newborn, family, or senior portrait session can make you feel excited, anxious, a smidge stressed … and of course, making a giant mess in your closet as you search for the perfect outfit. Inside our blog, we’re serving up all the inspo, tips, and tricks you need to have a stress-free photo session, from how to pose without feeling super awkward to what you and your family should wear. Reap the benefits of our 30 years of photography experience and wisdom, or just enjoy looking at the pretty pictures.