The Fabulous@40+ Project

Artist Sherry Penner writes: The Fab@40+ Project celebrates women over the age of 40 in a glamour style. The goal was to photograph 40 women over the age of 40, showing them how beautiful they really are and offering each an option to have one of their portraits edited in my signature Art style (this could be themed or digitally painted). The project grew beyond the original 40 participants and lasted for 4 seasons; in total 123 women were photographed for the project, and 100 unique art portraits were created.

As we enter this second chapter of life, many women face a crossroads, grappling with the physical changes that accompany this transition. Often, women in this age group have not had the chance to be photographed professionally, especially as the sole focus of the image. While they are typically the ones behind the camera, capturing their families and children, they may feel less confident when it comes to being photographed themselves. This project was conceived to highlight the inherent beauty in every woman and to celebrate the transformations that come with age.

The Fab@40+ Sessions embrace a glamour portrait style. Unlike boudoir photography, which tends to focus on the body from a voyeuristic angle, glamour photography centers on the connection between the subject and the viewer. This style can exude sensuality while prioritizing the expression, emotion, and essence of the subject rather than just the physical form.

Having a stunning portrait of yourself displayed can profoundly alter your inner dialogue. You’ll see yourself not just as the person in the morning mirror but as someone vibrant, joyful, and at their best. A glamour portrait session is a powerful means for women to boost their self-confidence and celebrate their unique beauty.