Joanna

before-after makeover photoshoot by olga klofac photography mayo sligo roscommon galway leitrim athlone longford dublin

Age:

45

Occupation:

Academic, musician, writer, wild crafter & overall bohemian “saorla” (Gaelic: free spirited woman)

Why did you say yes to this campaign? What was your WHY to participate?

I came across Olga Klofac on social media platforms and immediately fell in love with her artistic eye for photography. It is creative, beautiful, soft and so natural using light and colour to bring out the essence of the subject. I knew that she would take my picture someday and I was not disappointed. Olga is very down to Earth making every customer feel comfortable. She is easygoing and offers ideas and lively interaction so that the whole experience is one of a lifetime.

Tell me a little about you and your story:

“Long you live and high you’ll fly, and smiles you’ll give, tears you’ll cry and all you touch and all you see is all your life will ever be.” ― Pink Floyd “Breathe” (1973).

Life is a journey and not a destination. It has taken many twists and turns, leading me to this very day. I am grateful every day for my experience and even those difficult times in the past brought me great wisdom and learning in hindsight.

I am following my dreams in this lifetime and going for every opportunity that resonates with my true self.

What do you see when you look in the mirror?

When I was younger, I was so self-conscious and unaware of my beauty or power within me. Getting older has allowed me to appreciate my body and myself much more. When I look in the mirror, I see a strong & powerful human being who loves life and lives every day to the fullest.

Describe yourself in 3 words:

Wild. Wise. Wholehearted.

Do you feel like you have changed since turning 40?

The best thing about being 40 is that we did our mad stuff before the internet. In saying that, I am feeling younger than ever. I know my limitations; appreciate my body so much more, look after myself and do not abuse my body by eating well, exercising and having a good night’s sleep. These are some of my favourite activities nowadays.

What advice would you give to your younger self about caring for yourself?

Nobody can love YOU like YOURSELF.

What do you consider self-love?

Really looking at yourself in the mirror and saying out loud: I LOVE YOU

What do you love most about your new portraits? Is there something new you discovered about yourself?

My portraits display the true me. My essence, cheekiness and personality shine through them. Olga captured me beautifully on the day. The energy, chat and fun added to the photos making me look relaxed and carefree.

Something new I discovered about myself is that I loved the process and the output. Working with Olga makes me feel like this is something I would like to do more of in the future if opportunities arise.

What was your favourite part of working with me?

I really thoroughly enjoyed working with Olga on this campaign. We both created a bond and friendship. We both had a fun day, chatting, getting to know one another, listening to our favourite music and of course dressing up. The make-up artist was excellent and allowed me to give input on what look I wanted.

Wishing you the best and I would highly recommend Olga and her work to family & friends in the future.

Would YOU like to be part of this campaign celebrating women in their 40’s, 50’s and 60’s?