February 1, 2025

Kim Vega: Embracing Her Light in the 40 Over 40 Portrait Project

FILED IN: Uncategorized

A smiling woman photographed in a professional Cincinnati studio, seated on a simple black stool against a light gray textured background. Wearing a black dress with lace detailing, she embodies warmth and approachability. This personal branding portrait is ideal for corporate professionals in the Cincinnati area.

In a world that often prioritizes youth, the 40 Over 40 portrait project seeks to celebrate the wisdom, strength, and beauty that comes with age. One of the remarkable women featured in this project is Kim Vega—a mother, wife, and accomplished creative director whose journey is as inspiring as it is empowering.

A Storyteller in Design and Life

A black-and-white dramatic Cincinnati portrait of a woman resting her chin on her hands, wearing a geometric-patterned top. Captured in a downtown Cincinnati photography studio, this image uses soft directional lighting to create depth and emotion, ideal for personal branding or editorial projects.

Kim is a talented graphic designer with a career spanning decades. As the founder of Elevate Design and a senior consultant for major brands like Procter & Gamble, she has helped businesses craft compelling visual stories. Yet, despite her ability to capture the essence of a brand through design, embracing her own beauty and journey has been a personal challenge.

“I love to bring a story to life and help someone tell the story they don’t even know they want to tell,” Kim shares. Her expertise lies in seeing beyond the surface, identifying the core message, and bringing it to the forefront—skills that seamlessly translate into the 40 Over 40 experience.

A Journey of Rediscovery

A Cincinnati studio portrait of a woman standing barefoot on a wooden block against a textured gray background. She wears a flowing wrap dress with a high slit, her profile turned slightly for a graceful and timeless composition. This portrait is perfect for women in Cincinnati seeking classic, empowering images.

Participating in the 40 Over 40 project was more than just a portrait session for Kim—it was an opportunity to reconnect with herself. Like many women, she acknowledges the struggle of seeing her own beauty, especially as she moves through different stages of life.

“I think that a lot of times when women are aging, it’s hard to remember your own personal light and your own personal beauty,” Kim reflects. “Sometimes it takes others to see it in you so that you can see it in yourself again.”

Her words resonate with so many women who have felt unseen or overshadowed by the demands of life, career, and family. This project became a powerful reminder that beauty is not confined to youth—it radiates from within, at every stage of life.

Capturing Kim’s Essence

As a former colleague of photographer Leon, Kim was excited to work with someone she admired. She had always appreciated the way he captured light and authenticity in his subjects, and through this experience, she had the chance to be on the other side of the lens.

The portrait session was a mix of emotions—fun, energizing, and deeply personal. With every frame, Kim’s essence was captured in a way that reflected not only her external beauty but also the inner confidence and grace that define her.

A Message to All Women Over 40

A Cincinnati-based portrait of a woman with curly hair seated confidently in a red trench dress against a neutral beige background. Photographed in a professional studio, she exudes elegance with her silver cuff bracelet, red nails, and delicate earrings. This stunning portrait captures timeless beauty, ideal for personal branding or headshots.

Kim’s journey serves as a reminder that confidence and self-love evolve with time. Her participation in the 40 Over 40 project is a testament to the fact that every woman deserves to be seen, celebrated, and cherished.

For women who may feel hesitant about stepping in front of the camera, Kim’s experience is an encouragement: “This project is ambitious and important. It recognizes that beauty is only limited by the light within. And at every age, we can shine on.”

Be Part of the 40 over 40 Portrait Project Movement

The 40 Over 40 portrait project continues to empower women by capturing their unique beauty and stories. If you are in your 40s, 50s, 60s, or beyond, this is your chance to embrace your journey and let your light shine.

We are now booking for round three of the 40 Over 40 project! Click here to learn more and reserve your session.

Check out our LinkedIn post about Kim’s shoot here.

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