Once upon a time, in a world where women over 50 were seeking to reclaim their true selves, is how this story begins.

It all started when an extraordinary woman contacted me within a span of just a few weeks. Little did I know, she was about to embark on a quest to rediscover herself, just like so many women do.

You see, as we chatted about her reasons for wanting a portrait session, something magical happened. Her initial explanation turned into heartfelt confession. It became clear that, deep down, she was yearning to find herself again. Years of being a dedicated wife, nurturing mother, and selfless caregiver had left her feeling a little unsure. Somewhere along the way, she had lost sight of the women she was before taking on those roles.

I empathized with their struggles, for I had felt that same yearning within my own soul many years ago – right about the time I turned 50.  We both experienced the joy and fulfillment that comes with caring for others, but in the process, we had forgotten to care for ourselves. Our identities had become intertwined with the responsibilities we had shouldered, leaving us with a lingering sense of being a little lost.

And that's when I knew it was my calling to help this remarkable woman rediscover herself. With my camera as a guide, I set out on a mission to capture her essence, strength, and her unique beauty. We embarked on a journey of self-exploration, filled with laughter, shared stories, and moments of vulnerability.

During our portrait session, something magical happened. As I clicked the shutter, I could sense her true selves emerging from within. The images became portals to another time, transporting her back to moments of joy, freedom, and self-discovery. And when the time came to reveal the finished portraits, the room buzzed with anticipation and excitement. Her eyes lit up as she caught a glimpse of her authentic self, and words of disbelief spilled forth, "Is that really me?"

In those precious moments, I knew that our time together had been a success. Through the power of imagery, I had helped this incredible woman reconnect with the parts of herself that had been forgotten or hidden away. Each portrait served as a mirror, reflecting her inner strength and beauty. It was a profound reminder that age is just a number, and the best chapters of our lives can unfold at any moment.

But it wasn't just about the photographs. It was about the journey of self-discovery that unfolded before my eyes. I realized that my purpose as a photographer extended far beyond creating beautiful images. It was my duty to uplift and empower my clients, to gently guide them towards self-acceptance and self-love.

The impact of my work didn't end with the final click of the camera. It continued to resonate in the hearts and minds of my subjects, and their stories spread like wildfire. If you ever meet one of my ladies over 50, ask them about their experience with Cathy Benton Photography. They will tell you how those portraits became a turning point in their lives, a catalyst for embracing their uniqueness and stepping into the next chapter with confidence.

And so, the story continues. More women will come, seeking to find themselves again, and I will be there, ready to capture their true essence, one photograph at a time. Together, we will embark on a journey of self-discovery, weaving a tapestry of strength, beauty, and resilience. For every woman deserves to feel fifty and fabulous, knowing that her true self has been found once again.