10 Tips To Help Women Over 40 Take Better Self-Portraits

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 dryer and grayer, pores get bigger, and skin duller. Our hormones go out of whack, and our bodies change in ways we never thought possible.

So, getting a great self-portrait 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.

Still, if you are a solopreneur running your business, people want to get to know you, and pictures of yourself, your space, and your world are some of the quickest and easiest ways to communicate your business 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 transcends technicalities; it lies within Our mindset.

It's about recognizing the beauty of every wrinkle, laugh line, and imperfection as a testament to a life lived fully.

Approaching the process with a mindset of self-celebration rather than self-criticism fosters authenticity and allows our inner radiance to shine through the lens.

These self-portraits become snapshots and affirmations of our worth, resilience, and the wisdom gained through experience.

In the midlife journey, self-portraits are visual reminders of strength, beauty, and the ongoing evolution of self.

Here are 10 Tips to help you take better self-portraits:

1. Find Good Lighting: Natural light is often the most flattering for portraits. Look for soft, diffused light near a window or outdoors on a cloudy day to avoid harsh shadows and highlights on your face.

2. Experiment with Angles: Try different angles to find your most flattering poses. Angling your face slightly can highlight your cheekbones and jawline while holding the camera slightly above or below eye level can create interesting perspectives.

3. Use a Tripod or Stable Surface: To ensure sharp, focused images, use a tripod or stable surface to steady your camera or smartphone. This allows you to frame your shot precisely and eliminates camera shake.

4. Focus on Composition: Pay attention to composition when framing your self-portraits. Experiment with the rule of thirds, leading lines, and negative space to create visually appealing images.

5. Consider the Background: Choose a clean, uncluttered background. Avoid distracting elements that could take away from the focus on you.

6. Dress and Style: Wear outfits that make you feel confident and reflect your personal style. Consider how colors, patterns, and textures will appear in photos, and accessorize thoughtfully.

7. Express Yourself: Don't be afraid to show your personality and express yourself in your self-portraits. Let your authentic self shine through, whether it's a genuine smile, a thoughtful expression, or a playful pose. This is your time to create.

8. Use Props and Accessories: Incorporate props and accessories that add interest and personality to your self-portraits. Consider what items pertain to your brand and help tell your business story.

9. Experiment with Editing: Use photo editing tools or apps to enhance your self-portraits. Adjusting brightness, contrast, and color balance can improve the overall look of your images, but be careful not to overdo it. When using filters, I recommend selecting a single filter that aligns with your brand and maintaining consistency for a cohesive look.

10. Practice and Have Fun: Like any skill, taking great self-portraits takes practice. Experiment with different techniques, poses, and settings to discover what works best. Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the process of capturing your beauty and confidence at this stage of your life.

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.