Why I Embrace the Gift of Nature | 50 Over 50 | Dayton, OH | Photographer

Our latest 50 Over 50 client’s words are true inspiration for any woman coming to terms with aging. Acceptance and self-love can really go a long way. 🖤


This is what she had to say:
“Aging …we can’t stop it; it happens to all of us, but we can embrace it. We can choose to be happy for another day and know that we’ve earned every line and wrinkle on our faces. Every sagging part of our body, it tells us that we are survivors and we are still here. I feel as I’ve gotten older I have embraced the fact that I still have so much life to live. I FEEL young inside so I don’t necessarily feel I have to dress “my age” as they say, or wear my hair a certain way. The saying “you’re only as young as you feel” is so true and goes from the inside out. I do my make up every day, I get dressed every day, put on my jewelry every day, not for anyone else, but for myself. It is my daily ritual that gives me positive energy and a positive start to each new day. After all, we all have been aging from the very day that we were born, it’s something we can’t stop so we might as well embrace it. Yes, our bodies may change, our faces may look a different, but we need to remember that we are STILL WORTHY, and that we’ve earned every minute of the right to be who we are, our authentic self. So at 60 years old I’m going to embrace what the gift of nature has given me and try to pay as little attention to those lines, wrinkles and sags as possible. I am proud of who I am today. I am ME.”

What Experience Has Taught Me… | 50 Over 50 | Dayton, OH Photographer | Photography Studio

This 50 Over 50 client stepped out of her comfort zone fully for this shoot, and after speaking with her more I am so glad she did; her take on aging gracefully was so inspiring. She shared with us what that means to her, and how her own experiences have guided and taught her over the years.

This is what she had to say:

“What experience has taught me…

Experience has taught me that it’s ok to ask questions and that I’m not expected to know everything.

Experience has taught me the value of self-care.

Experience has taught me that it’s ok to like myself.

Experience has taught me that I don’t have to tell people what I think they want to hear. I can express my true thoughts… with gentle words of courage.”

Hair + Makeup by Courtney Yurt

Heavenly Light in High Contrast Black + White | Ohio Portraits + Boudoir

It’s no secret that a gorgeous set of high-contrast B+W shots are my jam. There’s something timeless and wild about a strong B+W portrait. “Timeless” is one of the main points of our mission, and a wild woman is our ideal client.

Check out some of our favorite high-contrast portraits from the past year, paired with inspiring words of art that every wild woman needs to hear.

When we accept our own wild beauty, it is put into perspective, and we are no longer poignantly aware of it anymore, but neither would we forsake it or disclaim it either.

Does a wolf know how beautiful she is when she sleeps? Does a feline know what beautiful shapes she makes when she sits? Is a bird awed by the sound it hears when it snaps open its wings?

Learning from them, we just act in our own true way and do not draw back from or hide our natural beauty. Like the creatures, we just are, and it is right.

-Clarissa Pinkola Estés

How wide and sweet and wild motherhood and sisterhood can be.

-Rebecca Wells

Do not water down your wild. Show up as the powerful woman you are.

-AB

Some women fear the fire, some women simply become it…

-R.H. Sin

She slept with wolves without fear, for the wolves knew a lion was among them.

-R.M. Drake

She was a wild one; always stomping on eggshells that everyone else tip-toed on.

-Kaitlin Foster

Sometimes an angel, sometimes a hell raiser, always a strong woman.

-R.H. Sin

Frequently Asked Questions Before a Photoshoot with WDP


Q: Some of the women in your portfolio look like models. I am not a “model” persay… is this really for me?

A: My sessions are for EVERY person! You don’t have to know what you’re doing in front of a camera at ALL. I will direct you every step of the way; we’ll prepare for your photo shoot together with styling tips and preparation YES and NO’s, and during the shoot I’ll pose and direct you, showing your BEST angles in the BEST light; I’ll even be your breathing coach throughout your session. Trust me… you’ve got this! 

Q: How far in advance should I book my session?

A: I recommend clients have their shoot date scheduled for at least 3 months prior to the date they’ll need their finished product. That said, it’s never too soon to get scheduled; more time & planning = a better shoot!

Your finished product (depending on what you order) will arrive between 4 and 6 weeks after your session.

Q: How much should I expect to spend in total, including additional a la carte items not included in my collection?

A:  I have clients who spend $400 and clients who spend $3000; it’s truly up to you and there is never any pressure, but most clients spend about $2500 (on average) for their session and additional photo products. My clients are amazed by how hard it is to choose from their images during the photo reveal. You’ll want to choose a collection that will allow you to take home all of the images you love with curated luxury products designed around your personal style. 
WDP collections are intentionally set based on my past client purchases, popular requests/needs, and our most desired products.

Email whitneydaniellephotography@gmail.com to get more information about WDP portrait collections, and a la carte pricing to see what product offerings are available for your session.

Q: When and how will I select my favorite images from the session?

A: Whitney Danielle Photography is proud to offer in-person photo reveal and ordering appointments a few weeks after your photo session. This is where you’ll view all of the photos from your shoot, choose the images you LOVE, and place your final print order. This allows us to guide you through the process of selecting the perfect portrait collection for your personal needs.

Q: What if my hair and skin need extra attention? 
A: If you have skin sensitivities or conditions, or if your hair takes longer than average to style, we will absolutely still be able to accommodate you. Please shoot us an e-mail ahead of time so that we can have the proper tools on hand and also so that we block out the appropriate amount of time.

Q: I’m really not comfortable with being photographed nude, but I would love to have photographs done by you! Is it possible?

A: Absolutely! My specialty is PORTRAITS, this includes boudoir and creative women’s portraiture, and as you probably already know it’s one of my passions, but first and foremost I am a photographer of PEOPLE; that incudes traditional or fashion style portraits. We honor your comfortably on the level of undress involved in each shoot, and the styling is always catered to your personal style and requests. 

Q: What should I wear?  I’m lost… HELP!

A: This is probably THE most frequently asked question… and the answer is simply this… WHATEVER makes you FEEL like a million bucks! My style is effortless, modern, & sexy, usually monochrome, with a touch of cool; which usually includes items you likely already have in your possession; long or short-sleeved bodysuits in black and white, oversized sweaters or cropped t-shirts with high waist panties (or imagine a leather jacket, blazer, or fur with high waisted panties), a robe, or even HIS shirt. Some clients opt for lingerie, or even fine-art fully nude shots, this is always your choice. Once we’ve booked and scheduled your shoot, I’ll send you a styling + preparation guide that will help you out during the planning process! In addition, your portrait session comes with access to the studio wardrobe, which includes a variety of kimono’s, dresses, fashion pieces, fabrics, bodysuits, button up shirts, and more. All of these are options available for any portrait session!

Q: Can I have someone with me at my session?

A: If you’d like to have ONE friend or family member along for support, I don’t mind at all! Sometimes it can be just what you need! I DO ask that the friend not interfere with the shoot (“touching you up” between shots, directing your posing, etc.) The BEST shoots happen when it’s just YOU, ME, & the CAMERA!

P.S. Even better than bringing a friend to watch… why not book your shoots back to back so you can experience it TOGETHER? Ask for details!

Q: What’s included in your photo retouching?

A: I take a very natural approach to editing and prefer to alter your images (and YOU!) as little as possible. I do perform light skin edits as needed (on things like under eye circles, blemishes, and noticeable cellulite, or even scars – by request only). In either style of retouching, my ultimate photographic goal is always to utilize the most flattering light, angles, and poses so that tons of post-processing isn’t necessary.  I am committed to capturing who you ARE, not who I think you should be, therefore you will find my edits do not alter you beyond recognition, but simply enhance the beauty you already have.

Q: These photos are going to be a gift for my significant other; what products would you recommend for the perfect gift?

A: Albums and folio boxes are an obvious choice for displaying a good number, or ALL of your images on your coffee table, shelves, or stands as statement pieces in your home. Most clients choose at least one larger piece of wall art for their home; a master bedroom or bathroom, even a walk in closet, or if you love the idea of being the art on your own walls (like myself…), the living room!

Q: Who will see my photos? Will you use them in your portfolio (website/social media/marketing/etc)?

A: Of course I would LOVE to use your images from our shoot to help support other women in making the decision to DO THIS for themselves! These photos are ART, and should be seen! As an artist and creative I get most of my business from showcasing my beautiful client sessions; HOWEVER, I fully appreciate and understand when a client doesn’t want their images shared with the public! Your images will never be shared without your permission, and it is completely your choice.
P.S. I am always amenable to signing an NDA should you need one from me because of your profession or public visibility.

For questions NOT covered here, feel free to reach out for more information!  

-X, Whitney

What Client’s Are Saying… “If you’ve never done a photoshoot of you, for you, please do it, and do it with WDP.”

“If you’ve never done a photoshoot OF YOU, FOR YOU… please do it…. and do it with Whitney Danielle Photography. No matter if you’re a mom who has lost her spark, you lack confidence, you’ve lost weight, you’ve gained weight, you feel old, you feel beautiful, or you don’t feel beautiful… those are ALL perfect reasons to do it. Whitney is a portrait photographer, and she is beyond talented. She’s funny, she’s light hearted, and she will tell you that you’re a boss b*tch and you’ll believe it! She goes out of her way to make you comfortable and create a fun and safe space. I truly can’t say enough wonderful things… except I walked into that photoshoot feeling a little dull, a little bored, a little spark-less… and I left feeling like a strong, beautiful, and POWERFUL woman… then I saw my images. I can’t believe the images she captured. It’s going to be so hard to choose. Do it. Do it. Do it. Whitney, you are a gift! Thank you.“

The Best Thing About Being Over 50… is Being Over 50. | Dayton, OH Photographer | Aging Gracefully | Portraits for Women

The women who have graced our studio for this project have brought with them the greatest wealth of knowledge and experience. Their take on self-love, aging gracefully, and life in general has been such an honor for us to witness at WDP. Carrie is no exception to that. She has such a carefree vibe about her that makes her energy completely contagious. She walked through the doors, fully trusting our process – and our studio wardrobe lol, without a single item of clothing and said, “I’m not getting any younger, this is who I am… let’s do this.”

This is what she had to say:

“How can you succeed at aging gracefully? For me… aging gracefully begins with giving myself grace, accepting how old I am, owning it, and loving who I have become over the years. I find loving myself is the springboard to everything else.

I find loving myself is the springboard to everything else.

The best thing about being over 50… is being over 50. I have five decades of experiences, good and bad, that have shaped who I am, how I think, what I take seriously and what I don’t. Each decade has made me stronger and taught me something valuable. I know I am a better person at 50 than I was at 40 or 30 or even 20. I have always been about living a healthy lifestyle and spending time with family and friends; both make me feel terrific. Feeling terrific sparks energy. Energy transcends into beauty, defined not by the wrinkles on my face, but instead by the twinkle in my eye, glow in my smile, and the pep in my step.

Energy transcends into beauty, defined not by the wrinkles on my face, but instead the twinkle in my eye, glow in my smile, and the pep in my step.

Maty Jean May (my mother) once said, “It’s better to be looked over than overlooked” but I have learned not to let my looks define me. Instead, I focus on the best of what is yet to come.

Aging Gracefully & Gratefully | Dayton, OH Photographer | Women’s Portraiture

This beautiful tribute to age and beauty was written by one of our incredible 50 Over 50 women. Keri is stunning, which you can clearly see in these images, but what stands out to me the most about her is that she doesn’t let anyone tell her who she can be based on the number of years she’s graced this earth. She becomes more and more independent and true to who she is every single year, and that’s one of the most inspiring things I’ve ever witnessed. I’m honored to have her as a part of this project.

This is what she had to say:

“I decided way back that I would embrace my age and rewrite what “older” would look and feel like. The best is yet to come and it’s never too late to reinvent yourself. I think there are a few layers with aging gracefully. The first is how we take care of ourselves, our skin, our minds, and our beautiful bodies. The second is the way we show up to the world, how we present ourselves and dress. What we choose to wear is an outward expression of how we feel about ourselves and who we truly are.  For me, I love fashion, so wearing something I love, that makes me feel good is an easy way to inject a little fun and self-love into my day.  I ignore most of the fashion beliefs that I’ve been told all these years as to how we should or shouldn’t look at a certain age; how we should style our hair, when we should stop wearing something that would show our legs off, or when to wear less makeup… WHO makes these rules? My philosophy on fashion is if it makes you feel good, wear it! We need to be so confident in who are are at ANY age, that no one’s opinion, judgement or rejection can rock us. Our life isn’t our life if we care what others think.

We need to be so confident in who we are at ANY age, that no one’s opinion, judgement, or rejection can rock us. 

As women, our health and self-care is so important; it’s not selfish.  For me, this means focusing more on Pilates and resistance training, more water, a diet that includes healthy fats and protein, with a lower carb ratio. Even though I don’t live my life in fear of getting older, I do fear losing my health and that is one thing I won’t compromise on. I try every day to do my best with my diet and overall health. We have to keeping nourishing and moving our bodies.

Finally the mental aspect of age, and probably the most important comes down to gratitude. I wake up every day grateful for another day; another day to be better and to do better. Age is just a number, and as women we need to inspire one another to be the badasses we were meant to be. A glowing woman can help another woman glow and still be lit.

Age is just a number and as women we need to inspire one another to be the badasses we were meant to be.

This is 64. I am proud of it, the wrinkles, the scars. I have lived and I have earned it all.”

50 Over 50 Project: NOW BOOKING

This year I set out on a mission. A mission of empowerment and celebration of life, age, and all things beauty.

In turning 35, I’ve found myself with a false sense of belief that these, my 30’s, are my best years, and that if I don’t act now – enjoy them to the fullest now, that I’m going to miss out on something in life. None of that is true. There is no perfect time frame, or specific season of your life in which to love yourself and enjoy life more. That time is now… 20lbs up or 20lbs down, 35 or 65 years young. This moment right now is still a part of your life regardless of the number of years you’ve been blessed with. It deserves its own honor, love, and much earned respect. I believe women truly do get more beautiful with age.

The women I’ve been meeting during this project have a confidence in them that only age and life experience can bring. They’re fierce… POWERFUL in their own right, and they are PROOF that life over 50 can be a sexy time of celebration, thriving, success, and fun. 🖤

NOW BOOKING the FIFTY OVER FIFTY Project for 2022. The project is a special one, and will end in an exhibition style gallery event and magazine with excerpts on age and beauty from each powerful woman who was a part of it. If you, or someone you know would be a perfect fit for this project, reach out to me at whitneydaniellephotography@gmail.com for more information.

How to Prepare for a Portrait Session with WDP

It can be an absolutely nerve-racking time in the weeks before your first photoshoot! I get it, and so many women have been right where you are.

This is a quick run down of what you SHOULD and should NOT do before your portrait experience with WDP.

We’ve got you, girl!

DO:

PLAN AHEAD

NOTHING kills the mood of something that’s supposed to be fun and relaxing like having to rush through your morning to get somewhere. Just boo! Always plan for traffic and allow yourself an extra 15 to get to the studio. We ask that you arrive no earlier than 10 minutes before your designated session time.

GO AHEAD, GIRL, PAMPER YOURSELF

Use this opportunity to pamper and reward yourself. Before your shoot, go get a fresh mani/pedi… get a massage… have a fun girls day. A relaxed, polished look is always a plus. Chipped nails and tense shoulders can be really distracting in your images.

BRUSH + EXFOLIATE YOUR LIPS

Ok, this one sounds odd, yea?! Dry, chapped lips are very hard to fix in photoshop. In the days leading up to your photoshoot, exfoliate your lips with a lip scrub or even BRUSH them with an extra toothbrush. Trust me this WORKS! It helps to shed dead skin. Afterwards, apply a moisturizing lip balm. Dr. Lipp is seriously THE BEST product out there for dry skin/lips. It’s definitely a multi-use product; I love it for the lips and cheek highlight, and I’ve seen it used for anything from dry elbows and knees to cracked nipples for nursing moms. You can score this on Amazon for less than $15!

HAVE EXTRA WARDROBE OPTIONS

WDP is so excited to now offer in-studio wardrobe options; flowy skirts and fabrics, dresses, kimono’s, bodysuits, and button up blouses. We do NOT supply lingerie for the obvious sanitary elements involved with that. Bring undergarment options that fit in different ways, or specific fashion pieces you have in mind. We go through all of these items when you arrive and you never know what might work once you’re in the session that you never thought about before. So when in doubt, bring it anyways! We’ll decide before your shoot!

LOTION LOTION LOTION, WATER WATER WATER!

Lather on that lotion, girl! Moisture is KEY for beautiful skin. Hydrate with a ton of water in the weeks before your session, and moisturize TWICE a day in the week leading up to your shoot. This tip is CRUCIAL. Use an oil based or illuminating moisturizer on the day of your shoot. Don’t use tinted lotions, body bronzers, or anything with color!

MAKE A PLAYLIST

Music is my number one must have at every shoot. While we will always keep a studio playlist rolling during your entire session, you are more than welcome to create a Spotify playlist and share it with us for your session. Good music vibes get you into the super model zone! We can stream your tunes on our bluetooth speaker and make it your own unique jam sesh.

BRING A SOFT ROBE AND SLIPPERS

During hair and makeup, we’ll have you slip on a robe without undergarments to give your skin some time to decompress and release any marks made by your clothing; bra, panties, socks, leggings, etc. It also gets a little chilly during the winter months, so having those slippers will be key! Even in the summer, it’s just super cozy to have a fluffy pair of slippers and a robe with you! We highly recommend!

TRUST ME, I’VE GOT YOU!

You came to me because you saw images of other women looking amazing, beautiful, confident, and strong… trust that I know what I’m doing, and I will do the same for you. I will never ask you to do something that will make you look unflattering. I know lighting, I know posing, I know which angles will make your booty pop and thin your waist… I’VE GOT YOU. I’ve photographed hundreds of women and have quite literally worked with every body type and insecurity you can imagine. Don’t stress (easier said than done though, I understand), just trust.

DON’T

SPRAY TAN BEFORE YOUR SHOOT

I know you think you’ll look so much better with a tan… but I ASSURE YOU, even if you don’t see the streaks and uneven coloring in real life, my camera WILL pick them up. You will photograph a lot more tan than you think you look, especially after post processing. TRUST ME ON THIS! On the same note, no tinted lotions or bronzers on your body. I know a lot of women are avid tanners and spray tanner’s and cannot imagine going without it for a photoshoot. Of course I will absolutely still photograph you, but unfortunately, standard retouching and makeup services do not include spray tan correction, so definitely keep that in mind.

COME WITH WET HAIR OR A FACE FULL OF MAKEUP

If you’ve purchased a portrait session that includes hair and makeup BE SURE to arrive with CLEAN, DRY hair that is ready to be heat styled, and a clean, moisturized face. Professional hair and makeup is included in most sessions, but does not account for additional time blow drying your hair, or cleansing your skin. Do not pre-straighten your hair before your shoot unless you intend on having a straight hair look for the session. We ask that you please honor this request! We’ve got the rest.

PARTY THE NIGHT BEFORE YOUR SHOOT

Dehydrated skin, dark circles, and the smell of booze oozing from your pores is not the look we’re going for. Hangovers are not sexy… LAWD, do I know it.

DRINK DARK BEVERAGES THE DAY BEFORE OR THE DAY OF YOUR SHOOT

This mama LOVES her red wine. I feel ya, but red and purple teeth stains don’t make for a great photograph. If you need something to calm the nerves, I recommend champagne or white wine; which we have a supply of in the studio for the day of!

FORGET TO STRETCH

If you’ve seen my portfolio, you know I’m the QUEEN of the hair flip, whipping that neck posing. A lot of the poses look so effortlessly beautiful, but some can be quite uncomfortable to get into. Take a few minutes the morning of to stretch your arms, legs, hips, neck, and especially your back; we’re going to be popping the booty, arching the back, and twisting during your shoot – you don’t want to pull a muscle while mid-Beyonce.

GET A NEW HAIRCUT OR COLOR IN THE WEEK BEFORE YOUR SHOOT

Just don’t. Don’t do it. Now is not the time to experiment with a whole new look not knowing how it’s going to turn out. Stick with what you’ve got, and I promise you’ll still look amazing.

WORRY YOURSELF SICK

Don’t worry about body issues, your period, acne, posing anxiety, whether or not you’re photogenic (at this point you’re probably thinking I’m delusional…), trust me WE HAVE GOT YOU. Bloating sucks, but we can tuck that in. Pimples are the BIGGEST pain in the world, but it’s nothing a little spot removal can’t fix in an instant. You don’t have to be a model to do this, you don’t have to know what you’re doing at all, I will guide you every step of the way, including how to breath and where to look! Every single person on the planet has a good angle… and it’s my job to find that, so whether or not you’re photogenic isn’t an issue either. Body issues are something I can empathize with after years of eating disorders and viewing myself in such a negative way. I take these feelings very seriously and I NEVER want to make anyone feel uncomfortable. I have learned ALL the tricks during my career to ensure that I’m emphasizing the areas women love about themselves, and downplaying the areas they don’t. I always make sure you’re comfortable with the posing before we move forward. You are in the best hands possible.

MOST IMPORTANTLY… TAKE THIS IN, ENJOY IT. THE MOMENT IS YOURS.

VULNERABILITY + CHANGE

Vulnerability; the quality or state of being exposed to the possibility of being attacked or harmed, either physically or emotionally.

I don’t think there’s a better word to describe 2020.

VULNERABILITY

Living in the new normal, being judged for wearing or not wearing a mask, all the while being terrified of the unknown; just walking down the street can feel like standing naked in a crowd.

This photo for me sparks a complex conversation between the narrative of COVID-19 and the intense emotional battle we have all encountered during the course of this year.

2020 may have slowed, and even brought to an abrupt halt, so many aspects of life as we know it, but it has also opened our hearts and sparked CHANGE in the world.

Credits