In my line of work, as a photographer in Toronto, I get to meet so many incredible people from all walks of life. I get to know them intimately. And I am fortunate enough to tell their stories, visually. Oftentimes shining light on the little things that define them, and highlighting those nuances through my lens, through photographs.
The 40 over 40 project is a whole photography movement that I'm excited to be a part of. The goal of the project is to empower and celebrate amazing women in their 40s, 50s, 60s, and beyond, and to bring to the world their stories - as diverse and special as the women themselves.
My work is not about highlighting transformations, glorified makeovers, or dramatic before-and-afters. My intention is to show you the way you see yourself - all that you are - different angles, different versions, different moods and vibes on different days. The 40 over 40 project is a collection of stories that celebrate women and their journeys.
Take a glimpse into one woman’s journey! Meet Masha: one of the first participants who helped me kick off this special project. Masha is a copywriter, founder of a content creation agency, entrepreneur, wife, mom of three, and so much more.
Masha, 40
“I wish I could say that age is just a number and I don't think about it.
The truth is, of course I do, occasionally. Once in a while a thought pops into my head about all the things I thought I’d accomplish or try by the time I turn 40. With an air of regret, I sometimes wish for things to be a little different.
I wish I’d gotten sooner into working out and mental self-care.
I wish I was married younger and had kids in my 20s.
I wish I’d launched my business sooner instead of climbing the corporate ladder for years.
I wish I’d traveled across Europe when I had the time, opportunity, and disposable income.
I wish I’d mastered money-saving skills early on.
The list goes on and on and on.
But then eventually the noise settles.
And that’s where I take a less melodramatic look at my life and appreciate it for what it is. Full of amazing people and things, necessary mistakes and valuable lessons, surprises and confirmations, places and experiences, opportunities and discoveries. And the list evolves each day.