In the realm of portrait photography, every subject brings a unique story that adds depth and richness to their images. Robin Throckmorton, a recent participant in our 40 Over 40 Portrait Project, embodies a narrative of resilience, transformation, and empowerment. Her journey offers profound insights into the evolving identity of women over 40.
A Life of Multifaceted Roles
Robin’s professional journey is nothing short of inspiring. With a master’s degree in Human Resources, she founded Strategic HR in 1995, coinciding with the birth of her first child. Over three decades, she nurtured both her business and family, navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship and motherhood simultaneously. Her dedication led to the growth of her company to a 40-employee enterprise, which she eventually sold before retiring at 55.
Balancing a thriving business with raising two children, each facing their own challenges, Robin’s resilience was continually tested. Her son, diagnosed with high-functioning Asperger’s, and her daughter, overcoming dyslexia and ADD, both achieved significant academic and personal milestones. Robin’s unwavering support and advocacy were instrumental in their journeys.
Redefining Retirement: A Second Act
Retirement for Robin is not about slowing down but about redirecting her energy towards passion projects. She is deeply involved in volunteer work, offering job coaching, business consulting, and serving on various boards. Her co-authored book, “Bridging the Generations Gap,” continues to position her as a sought-after speaker, necessitating a current and professional portrait to represent her evolving brand.
Participating in the 40 Over 40 Portrait Project was a deliberate step in this rebranding journey. Robin expressed, “I’ve never had professional pictures done of me… just family photos. I need a current and professional photo for all of this.” This experience was not just about obtaining a photograph but about embracing her identity in this new chapter.
The Portrait Experience: Beyond the Lens
Despite initial nervousness, Robin found the photoshoot to be a transformative experience. She shared, “You all made me feel so at ease and comfortable. It’s like we knew each other forever.” This comfort translated into confidence, allowing her authentic self to shine through in the portraits.
Reflecting on the importance of self-care, Robin emphasized, “Women, we should all do it because we don’t take time for ourselves.” The photoshoot became a metaphor for this philosophy, offering her a moment to focus solely on herself, an act often neglected amidst life’s demands.
Wisdom Gained: Insights Beyond 40
Robin’s journey has reshaped her perceptions of aging and self-worth. She candidly admitted, “When we were younger, ‘old’ just seemed old. You know – 40, 50, 60… As I still feel like I am 25 – well most of the time.” This realization underscores the importance of mindset in embracing each stage of life.
Her advice to younger women is poignant: “Embrace each day as it is your last! You don’t know if you have tomorrow and who will be there with you.” This mantra reflects a life lived with intention and presence, qualities that her portraits aim to encapsulate.
Empowerment Through Portraiture
For Robin, the portrait session was more than a photoshoot; it was an affirmation of her journey and the person she has become. It served as a reminder that confidence and empowerment are cultivated through experiences that challenge and celebrate us.
Her story is a testament to the multifaceted lives women lead and the continuous evolution of their identities. Through the lens of the 40 Over 40 Portrait Project, we aim to honor such narratives, capturing the essence of strength, beauty, and resilience that women like Robin exemplify.
Be Like Robin—Rediscover Confidence at our Cincinnati Portrait Studio
Robin Throckmorton’s story is a testament to the resilience, strength, and evolution every woman over 40 carries. Her portrait session wasn’t just about capturing a photo—it was about redefining confidence, reconnecting with self, and stepping boldly into her next chapter. If you’re a woman in Cincinnati who’s been too busy building careers, raising families, or putting others first, take a cue from Robin: you deserve to be seen.
Want to learn more about Robin’s incredible work in the HR world? Visit Strategic HR or connect with her directly on LinkedIn.
And if you’re ready to step in front of the camera and celebrate your story, join the 40 Over 40 Portrait Project—because it’s your time, too.
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