This is my second 40 Over 40 Series where I am celebrating the wisdom, truth and authenticity that comes with getting older. This is a story about emerging into our full selves and eliminating the stigma and negative self-perception we have around aging. It pains me to see women across my network and studio putting themselves down about wrinkles, menopause and changing bodies.

At the same time, I agree that aging is hard and ageism is real. As a portrait photographer, I see its effects. Every. Single. Day. I won’t dismiss those feelings. Instead, I have centered my mission for The 40 over 40 Series around changing the inner dialogue of women and the overall narrative about getting older. I want to teach people how to not only embrace being in front of the camera, but to focus on their strengths and to show themselves off to the world.

This project is meant to elevate our perspectives, and give its participants an experience like no other. It’s a whole new look on what it’s like to be photographed. Coming into my studio is an opportunity to feel pampered, cherished and empowered and our goal is to push you toward your future self. We want you to walk out our doors as a changed woman free of self-doubt and talking to yourself with lots of love. This photoshoot is not just a thing to do, it’s a practice, a habit and a lifestyle. And when those negative thoughts creep back in, you will have the photos as a reminder that you are a badass, empowered woman.

Imagine having a huge portrait of yourself on a wall to remind yourself daily of your strength and your power.

On the application for the project, I ask women to share what excites them most about being a part of this project and there are a few I would like to share because they gave “yes!” vibes:

Empowering women is near and dear to my heart and a golden thread that runs through my business. We have to be there for one another and keep lifting each other up. All of my clients are awesome and doing cool things with their lives and careers. The 40 Over 40 Series is a chance to be a part of community to share, learn and celebrate our paths forward. I’ll be throwing a party for the whole 40 Over 40 cohort once we’ve accomplished photographing all 40 women where we can connect with one another. By building a community of rock stars (you are each one in your own way!), we can cheer each other on, share our learnings, strengthen our networks and raise a glass to each other.

Lindsay Guarino, from our first 40 Over 40 Series

I hope that you want to jump on board this project and apply soon. We still have spots available. I would love to show you that you are gorgeous, strong and empowered at any age and I can’t wait to meet you!