Why Female Business Owners in Their 40s and Above Struggle to Be Photographed

Victoria has started a new business and understands the importance of investing in high-quality photos of herself, even though she isn’t fond of seeing her pictures. Before our photoshoot, she had her hair and makeup done and selected several outfit options. Her dedication enabled us to create a diverse range of looks.

There's a moment that happens in nearly every portrait session I photograph. It usually comes just after we've done a few warm-up shots. The business owner will pause, take a breath, and say something like:

"Oh. I feel... okay." It's subtle, but powerful.

For many women in business, being photographed isn't just about getting some nice headshots. It's about stepping into visibility, and that can feel vulnerable. I know this because I've been on both sides of the lens.

Even as a photographer, I've struggled with being photographed myself. I used to hate how I looked. I'd pick apart every little thing. It took years of working with other women to realise how deeply personal and emotional this process can be.

Here is How I Help Women Show Up Authentically

We're not just taking photos.

We're unravelling years of conditioning that told us we're only "photo-worthy" if we look younger, thinner, or more polished. One of the many reasons I'm in therapy, and I feel like a therapist too. We're challenging the idea that we have to perform a version of ourselves to be accepted. And we're replacing it with something far more real.

I recently worked with a client who runs a beautiful coaching business. She told me she'd been putting off branding photos for over three years. Not because she didn't believe in her work, but because the idea of being seen felt confronting.

We spent some time chatting before we started. I gently guided her into poses that felt natural to her. I encouraged her to move, breathe, take up space.

And something shifted.

By the end of the session, she stood tall, relaxed, and glowing, a new version of herself. The transformation was remarkable, and the result was stunning.

She emailed me later to say, "I actually like how I look. That's never happened before." Cue the dancing from me!

This is why I do what I do. I'm deeply passionate about helping women like you feel confident and authentic in their branding photos. My approach to branding photography isn't about stiff poses or forced smiles. It's about connection, trust, and capturing the version of you that your clients already love—the one who shows up in your work every day.

You don't need to be a model.

You don't need to know how to pose.

You need to feel safe and seen.

If this speaks to you, I'd love to photograph you.

My branding sessions are open for anyone!

Let's create images that feel like you — confident, grounded, and authentic.

Get in touch for a quick chat. I'd love to hear your story.