How to Take Better Self-Portraits After 50: 5 Simple Tips
At 24, 30, or 42, aging wasn't on my mind as it is now in my 50s. The signs gradually appear over time … until one day, you glance in the mirror and wonder, when did that happen?
Things feel different. Our hair gets drier and grayer, pores get bigger, and skin duller and droopier. Our hormones go out of whack, and our bodies change in ways we never thought possible.
So, getting a great self-portrait often takes more effort, time, good light, and angles.
And I know it can be intimidating and maybe even feel a little narcissistic to post photos of yourself online.
But if you’re a business owner, eventually people will want to get to know the woman behind the brand. Pictures of yourself, your space, and your world are among the quickest and easiest ways to communicate your aesthetic and vibe.
But how do you get from not wanting to be seen in photos to taking selfies?
For women in midlife, the most crucial aspect of taking self-portraits lies within our mindset.
It’s recognizing how far we’ve come and owning every wrinkle, laugh line, and imperfection as a testament to a life well lived.
Approaching the process with self-acceptance vs. self-criticism helps our inner essence come through the lens.
And I know that’s easier said than done when so much is changing during this time of life. But learning to accept who you are now, instead of constantly comparing yourself to who you were then, can change the way you see yourself in photographs.
A self-portrait captures this version of you. Not the younger you. Not the person you used to be. You, now. And there’s something pretty powerful about having a visual record of that.
Here are 5 Simple Tips that will help you Take Better Self-Portraits After 50:
Find Good Light: Soft, natural light is usually the most flattering. Try facing a window or shooting outdoors in open shade to avoid harsh shadows.
Experiment with Angles: Move around and find the angles that feel most like you. Turning your face slightly or positioning the camera just above eye level can make a big difference.
Consider Your Background: Keep it intentional and relatively uncluttered. Look for interesting walls, textures, architecture, or environments that complement you without competing for attention.
Dress With Intention: Choose clothing, colors, textures, and accessories that feel like you and connect naturally with your brand.
Show Some Personality: Skip the stiff posing. Move, laugh, look away from the camera, use a meaningful prop, or interact with your environment. The goal isn't perfection. It's capturing images that actually feel like you.
As we navigate the changes that come with aging, the journey to capturing a great self-portrait becomes a testament to embracing ourselves wholly.
It's about acknowledging the evolution of our appearance and finding beauty in every stage of life.
While it may require more effort, time, and patience, taking self-portraits becomes an act of self-expression and self-empowerment. It's not about vanity but about celebrating our authenticity and sharing our stories with the world.
So, from finding the right light to embracing our unique angles, let's embark on this journey of self-discovery through the lens, one self-portrait at a time.
