Shine on Camera: Embrace Your Radiance during Perimenopause and Menopause

For many women over 40, the idea of being photographed can be frustrating. It's not uncommon to feel self-conscious or dissatisfied with the results. 😩

But what if I told you that you can step in front of the camera and radiate confidence, even during the transformative stages of perimenopause and menopause?

The truth is, many women over 40 often grapple with negative self-talk and doubts about their appearance. Society's unrealistic beauty standards only add to the pressure, making women feel like they don't measure up.

Imagine a scenario where you're invited to a special event, and the photographer is ready to capture your essence. Instead of feeling self-conscious, you exude confidence, knowing that you can look and feel amazing on camera. 📸

How would that make you feel?

In this blog post, I want to introduce you to the inspiring story of Tia Haygood, a remarkable portrait photographer. Tia's wisdom can help you shine on camera, regardless of where you are on your menopausal journey.

Meet Tia Haygood: The Woman Behind the Lens

Tia Haygood's journey into the world of photography is a captivating tale of inspiration and passion. It all began with her grandmother, who carried her camera everywhere, documenting every moment.

Tia's fascination with photography ignited when she received her first camera at the tender age of 13—an SLR film camera that became her constant companion.

Her love for the art deepened through high school and college photography classes, solidifying her passion.

Today, Tia is a highly regarded portrait and event photographer based in Japan.

Her journey from an inquisitive teenager with a camera to an accomplished photographer is not just a story of skill development; it's also a narrative of empowerment and self-expression.

Tia's journey serves as a reminder that our passions can evolve into our life's work, and it's never too late to pursue what sets our souls on fire.

Tia's Passion for Empowering Women

Tia's love for photography goes beyond technical proficiency. For her, photography is a powerful tool for empowerment, especially for women. Having experienced the challenges that women face at various stages of life, she brings a unique perspective to her craft.

Tia observed that many of her clients, despite their remarkable life stories and accomplishments, would often become self-deprecating during photoshoots. She questioned why these exceptional women weren't feeling empowered during these sessions.

With Tia's guidance, women over 40 can learn to break free from societal norms and expectations and discover their unique radiance.

Breaking Free from Social Norms and Expectations

It's crucial not to allow societal pressures to dictate how you should look or feel in front of the camera. Tia encourages women to reclaim their presence and defy these norms.

In Tia's own words, "Photography isn't just about capturing a moment; it's about capturing the essence of a person, especially women. It's about helping them see their beauty, strength, and unique radiance."

I, Miyako Hazama, the Menopause Energy Expert and Mentor, wholeheartedly endorse Tia's approach. I believe that Tia is empowering many women over 40 not only to take superficial photos but also to approach photography from the perspective of igniting their inner glow.

The Impact of Self-Talk and Confidence

One of the fundamental lessons Tia imparts to her clients is the power of positive self-talk and confidence. She recognizes that negative self-perceptions often arise from external influences and unrealistic media portrayals of beauty.

Tia encourages women to shift their mindset and focus on their distinctive attributes and beauty.

Tia articulates it beautifully: "I often wonder when there's talk of desirability of women who are under 25 or who are under 30 or who are under 40. I always wonder what about the curvy woman, the woman whose child has graduated, who's moved on? That woman is still desirable, beautiful, and of value."

I echo Tia's sentiments, acknowledging that societal pressures and comparisons can erode self-esteem. It's essential to understand how your emotions influence your self-perception and actively practice self-flattery.

Three Practical Tips for Looking Your Best on Camera

Tia doesn't stop at empowering words; she offers practical advice for looking and feeling your best on camera, especially during perimenopause and menopause.

1. Visualize Your End Goal

Consider what your desired outcome is when you step in front of the camera. What does success mean to you? Whether you have a clear vision or not, collaborate with your photographer to explore your style and preferences. It's about capturing your authentic self and creating empowering images.

2. Trust Your Photographer and Communicate

Building trust with your photographer is crucial. Share your concerns, energy levels, and any distractions. A skilled photographer will provide solutions and create a comfortable environment. Trust the process and allow your authentic self to shine through.

3. Have Fun with It

Tia's final tip may sound simple, but it's profoundly impactful: Have fun during the experience. Let go of self-consciousness and relish the moment. When you relax and enjoy yourself, your genuine self emerges, resulting in authentic and beautiful photographs.

The Lesson: Confidence, Communication, and Fun

These tips underscore the importance of confidence, open communication, and embracing the joy of the moment. Confidence arises from recognizing your worth and embracing your unique journey. Communicate effectively with your photographer to ensure a collaborative and comfortable experience. And most importantly, have fun—let your radiant self shine through the lens.

Creating Visual Milestones: A Legacy for Generations

For mothers, Tia underscores the significance of participating in their children's photoshoot sessions. By actively engaging in these milestones, mothers not only create cherished memories for their children but also capture their own unique journeys. Tia shared a touching story about her own mother, highlighting the importance of legacy photos and their lasting impact on future generations.

Powerful Project: The 40 Over 40 Experience

Tia Haygood's commitment to empowering women is exemplified by her ambitious project, the 40 Over 40 Experience. Collaborating with 40 influential women over 40, Tia orchestrated a transformative studio photoshoot celebrating their authenticity and wisdom. These captivating photographs, capturing the true essence of womanhood, will be featured in her upcoming exhibition.

Conclusion: Your Journey to Radiance

Remember, your journey is an integral part of what makes you beautiful and unique. As women over 40 navigating perimenopause or menopause, you possess a distinct radiance that deserves to be celebrated and preserved through the lens.

Tia Haygood's evolution from a curious teenager to a renowned photographer and my mission to empower women during this transformative stage offer invaluable lessons and insights.

Tia's guidance is firmly rooted in the belief that every woman, regardless of age or life stage, deserves to feel beautiful and confident in front of the camera.

So, let's embark on this journey together—embracing our vulnerability, unleashing our inner radiance, and capturing the beauty of our authentic selves.

This blog, my dear friends, is a celebration of you and your journey to shine on camera like never before! 💃

Connect with Tia Haygood:

➡️ Webpage: https://toptia.com/

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