“Astonishing”
"What an experience to have your essence captured by a photographer with visionary eyes - who can see the spirit of an individual many of us bury or blur - because as women, others are typically placed first and our essence is overshadowed and often misplaced.
I gave myself permission to be photographed as my 62nd birthday gift to myself. And to be chosen to participate in the AVP Over 40 Movement is quite astounding. To see myself through Valerie's camera lens, captured is an experience I will not soon forget.
I would highly recommend everyone to give themselves permission to have this experience. It is such an eye-opening peek at oneself."
– Nicki Mohler
“Life - changing”
“My husband I and traveled from Harrisonburg to Lexington for my reveal. To say we were awe struck would be, even for me, an extreme form of British understatement. We are absolutely delighted with the photographs, their composition, quality and presentation. They are a gift for ourselves that will enjoy each and every day for years and years to come.
What my husband did not experience, of course, were for me the even more profound, life changing and life affirming experiences, so far, of my AVP 40 Over 40 experience.
When Valerie and I met for an extended period of time, we were technically strangers to one another. Within moments of arriving at the studio, I felt at ease, encouraged, valued, appreciated and at every turn in the conversation Valerie made it very clear how genuinely, sincerely and authentically she was listening and working towards understanding what I wanted to achieve in my portrait. It was a complex brief; to meet me one would see an exuberant, effervescent, youthful middle-aged woman with not a care in the world. So, I had to take her on a journey so she could ”find” me. The me who I am today, right now, right here, in this very moment.
So, long story short, she found me. And how she found me was by listening deeply, with an open mind and an open heart, a heart that understands women and the unpredictable physical and emotional journey that life takes us on whether we are ready or not.
The day of the photoshoot was full of joy, relaxation, warmth, confidence (on both our parts - model and photographer) and creativity. Hair and make-up was gentle, professional and minimal (which heightened my confidence even more).
There was no rush during the photo shoot. I felt an equal partner in the artistry that was being created, the art that was finding me. I was relaxed, energized and having the time of my life!
I adored the ease with which I was taken through and experienced my shoot. It was effortless. And the time went by in a flash. I felt loved, valued and respected. And, more to the point, I felt beautiful inside and out. I felt authentically me.
Needless to say, the final product is a masterpiece. Is it the artist and her lens? Perhaps. But I feel that something more is going on here. I’m not sure how to describe other than to say it is a spirit where art, beauty and authenticity meet. And that spirit is channeled at every step - sincerely and passionately - by Valerie.”
– Stacy Newman-Cilento
“Magical”
“My portraits nailed every last aspect that I wanted captured. Beautiful, mysterious, magical, feminine, strong, and brave and a lot more.
So glad I was brave enough to say yes to myself. Say yes, I am worth it! Say yes! I swear it gets easier and it makes a difference in your life and others as well.
It's a relief to stop hiding, to be accepted, standing in your power, be seen, be vulnerable. Receive and give love, I never imagined the beauty I could be. Now I see it. I see it in everyone because of this process.
People are beautiful. You are beautiful. Show your gifts of light and love. Take the journey inside yourself and find the extraordinary YOU and gift it to the world. We need you!”
– Lucy Raney
“Blown away”
"It’s difficult to find the words for what my photoshoot represents. I was blown away when I walked into the room with 20+ gorgeous photos… of myself! It’s certainly not how I see myself day-to-day. I’m so glad I made the time to do this photoshoot.
RUN… GO! Get it done, you will not be disappointed.”
– Terri Thompson
