Brand photography is a game-changer for female entrepreneurs over 40. It elevates your business presence and boosts confidence. As a brand photographer, I’ve seen how a photoshoot transforms not just how others see you, but the confidence it gives you.

Menopause and Brand Photography: Moving Past Self-Doubt

Menopause brings big changes—physically, emotionally, and mentally. It can shake your self-esteem and make stepping in front of a camera feel daunting. Do these sound familiar?

• Brain fog can make you doubt your abilities
• Hormonal shifts can trigger mood swings and anxiety
• Weight gain or skin changes might affect body image

Sometimes the changes hit us in the face, and for others, they are subtle enough not to be recognized as symptoms.

Here’s the truth: midlife is the perfect time to embrace your power and share your expertise with confidence.

Menopause and the Camera: From Fear to Fearless

Despite these challenges, this stage of life is an incredible time to invest in brand photography. Here’s why:

• Authenticity sells: Your wisdom and experience are assets—own them.
• Confidence boost: Seeing yourself through a professional lens can shift how you feel about yourself.
• Reclaim your identity: Many women feel invisible during menopause. A photoshoot helps you step back into the spotlight.
• Inspire others: Showing up with confidence encourages other women to do the same.

Confidence and preparation ensures you feel more at ease so that your photos actually reflect your brand and personality.

Why Brand Photography Matters

• Builds credibility and trust
• Showcases your unique personality
• Helps you stand out in a crowded market
• Provides consistent, professional imagery for marketing

How to Feel Confident in Your Photoshoot

• Choose outfits that flatter your body and reflect your brand
• Opt for professional hair and makeup if it helps you feel your best
• Communicate any concerns with your photographer
• Bring props or items that highlight your personality and achievements

Shift Your Mindset

• Celebrate your accomplishments and life experience
• Focus on what your body can do, not just the physical appearance
• Remember, confidence is attractive at any age

How to Prep Your Skin for a Photoshoot During Menopause

Hydrate Inside and Out

• Drink plenty of water leading up to the shoot
• Use a hydrating serum or moisturizer suited for mature skin
• Eye drops lubricate your eyes, providing extra shine
• Apply a rich night cream or hydrating face mask before bed

Gentle Exfoliation

• Use a mild exfoliant 2-3 days before the shoot
• Avoid harsh scrubs that can irritate menopausal skin

Makeup Tips

• Use a primer to smooth skin texture – mine has SPF
• Opt for light foundation, not a heavy matte formula

To be sure I was on point with the skincare tips, I sent them to local makeup artist Vicky Mina. She suggested I also add:

Incorporate skin care with active ingredients such as vitamin C and Niacinamide which work effectively yet maintain your healthy skin barrier. No radical treatments just prior to photoshoot. Taking oral collagen and/or omega supplements can be helpful to skin.

Vicky has a skin care line at Vicky Mina Makeup specifically designed for mature women. 

Managing Hot Flashes during a photoshoot

They are going to happen. Take breaks as needed to cool down – I may too!

Keep oil-absorbing sheets handy, and maybe even blotting powder for quick touch ups to reduce shine. .

Most importantly, the key to any photoshoot is be well rested. A good night’s sleep makes all the difference. It is the natural remedy to elevating your mood, and preventing eyes that look weary.  

Brand photography isn’t about chasing perfection—it’s about owning who you are and showing up with confidence. A brand photographer will capture your best angles and highlight your strengths. Trust our expertise, but more importantly, trust yourself.

To truly understand the struggles of what woman may go through during menopause, and the effects it has on their personal branding, I asked my email list. This reply sums it up:

 Mother Nature is not kind to its girls…and when I feel this way and then I see pictures of myself, they are a reflection of the warped sense I have of myself and my appearance. What’s even harder is that to own a business, you have to put yourself front and center and have your picture taken. UGH.

Avai K.

Don’t let menopause hold you back from putting yourself out there and growing your business. You’ve earned your place in the spotlight—let it shine!

In Nova Scotia? I got you. Start by downloading my Branding Guide

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This article was inspired by The MFactor, and compiled with the assistance of

Kathleen Bulger, Holistic Nutritional Consultant

Vicky Mina, Professional make-up artist

PerplexityAi sources:

www.balance-menopause.com

www.mymenopausecentre.com

www.onstella.com

www.everydayhealth.com