What does it mean to be seen in midlife, not just for your roles or your résumé, but for who you are now?
For Rawnica Dillingham, stepping in front of the camera wasn’t easy. As Chief Sales Officer at New Riff Distilling, she’s used to commanding rooms, managing strategy, and leading expansion efforts around the globe. But being photographed, especially in a moment designed to spotlight her personal story, felt entirely different.
“I’ve felt less confident and less in love with my body in recent years,” she shared during her post-session interview. “This shoot was about reconnecting with parts of myself I’ve overlooked. I wanted to see myself in a way that felt honest and empowering.”
That intention was exactly what brought Rawnica into the 40 Over 40 portrait project: a desire to challenge aging stereotypes and create space for authenticity. Like many women entering their 40s and beyond, she was navigating questions of identity, beauty, and visibility. This session was a pause. A reset. A chance to reflect not on who she used to be, but on the woman she is now.
From Nerves to Ease – How the Photoshoot Unfolded
Rawnica admitted she was nervous at first. She doesn’t love being in front of the camera and wasn’t sure what to expect. But as the session unfolded, something shifted. With soft encouragement, professional lighting, and a space designed to be comfortable and honest, Rawnica began to let go.
“I felt relaxed and calm,” she said afterward. “It was done in a way that I kind of forgot we were taking photos. It just felt fun and casual.”
What followed was a series of portraits that captured more than her image. They revealed her presence. Her strength. Her warmth. And maybe most importantly—they reminded her how to love herself again.
Why The 40 over 40 Portrait Project Matters
In Rawnica’s words, “All women should invest in themselves in ways that rebuild confidence. Especially as we age.” She compares the importance of a portrait session to therapy—another way to hold up a mirror and ask, “Who am I today?”
This isn’t about glamour. It’s about truth. About allowing ourselves to be fully visible in a world that often prefers us to shrink or smooth the edges of our stories.
For Rawnica, this session became a moment of alignment. Professionally, she’s leading New Riff into new territory, overseeing their international expansion across the EU and beyond. Personally, she’s reclaiming space, not just as a leader, but as a whole woman.
Final Thoughts on This Portrait Experience
Portraits like these offer something deeper—a way to reconnect with identity and self-worth at a time when many women feel overlooked or invisible.
Rawnica showed up with courage and clarity. She reminded us that strength can look like letting go. That beauty doesn’t follow age, it follows truth.
And if you’ve been waiting for permission to see yourself again, this is your sign.
You’re not too late. You’re right on time.
Want to learn more about the incredible work Rawnica is doing at New Riff?
Visit New Riff Distilling to explore the brand’s bold take on modern bourbon and their expansion into international markets.
To connect with Rawnica professionally or follow her leadership journey,
you can find her on LinkedIn here.
Feeling inspired to step into the frame yourself?
If you’re curious about a session designed to reflect your story, your strength, and your present-day identity, I invite you to explore my Personal Branding Portrait Experience. Let’s create something meaningful together.
Hair and Makeup: Sarah M. Lockwood
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