There are women who walk into a portrait session in Johannesburg while silently hoping to feel truly beautiful. And then there are women like Angela, who walk in hoping to feel brave. When Angela first came across the 40 over 40 campaign, she wasn’t just drawn in by the images. She was drawn in by what they represented to her: a celebration of women over 40 who have lived, loved, lost, and kept going. Women who have chosen themselves. For Angela, saying yes to this session was about so much more than portraits (and this is the case for many of my clients). It was about finally stepping into a chapter she had earned!

“What drew me most was the initiative as a whole. Reaching this milestone is daunting enough for women, and what is showcased in these images is truly amazing — confidence, empowerment, self-expression, and above all, self-love. These women reveal not only their outer beauty but their inner beauty as well, and I knew I wanted to be a part of something so meaningful.

Having battled with self-worth, I saw this as an opportunity to push myself beyond my comfort zone and fully embrace this chapter of my life.”

“I believe I am in the Autumn season of my life. It’s a time of transformation and reflection, where I’ve grown into someone who values self-awareness and intentional growth. I actively take time to reflect so I can better understand myself and continue evolving into the best version of who I am meant to be.”

“Grief has shaped me and continues to shape the person I am today. Losing important people in my life has deepened my appreciation for the truly special connections I am still fortunate to have.

It has also made me more compassionate and allows me to support others through my mediumship work. In walking through my own loss, I am able to sit with others in theirs. There is deep fulfillment in helping those who are grieving, because I can genuinely resonate with the pain they carry and offer understanding from a place of lived experience.”

We are at an age where authenticity truly matters. We live according to our own standards, not the expectations placed upon us. It is okay to be single, independent, and thriving — as long as you are being unapologetically yourself and never doubting your worth.

“Completely out of my comfort zone.”

“Life happens. Love comes and goes. People come and go. But the true test is embracing the lessons in it all — choosing to grow through every experience, becoming a better person because of it, and learning to love yourself along the way.”

“I am most proud of not allowing my past experiences to define who I am. Instead, I actively choose growth over resentment. I choose to rise in spite of challenges and setbacks, becoming stronger and wiser with every lesson life places before me.”

Angela walked into this studio feeling completely out of her comfort zone. She walked out with portraits that celebrate exactly who she has become.

If her story resonates with you or if part of you is saying yes (even an uncertain yes) that’s enough to start. There are only 40 spots in the 40 over 40 campaign, so they are limited. Fill in the form and Tamryn will be in touch.