The Misleading Nature of "Empowerment" in Photography

When Nisha and I began discussing our latest project—photographing women aged 40 and beyond—it felt like the perfect alignment of our passions and values. We wanted to celebrate women at a stage in life where their depth, strength, and individuality radiate most authentically. But as we started developing the concept, we stumbled upon a creative disagreement.

Nisha suggested that to make the project commercially viable, we should offer hair and makeup services, crafting distinct looks for each woman. She believed this added layer of styling would make participants feel more confident and engaged in the experience. I disagreed—not because I dismissed the value of styling but because I felt it veered away from the core of what I want to achieve with my photography.

Here’s the thing: I don’t believe women need to be "empowered" through photography. Why? Because empowerment, as it’s often used, implies that women are somehow powerless before they step in front of my lens. And that’s simply not true. Women—especially women over 40—carry a lifetime of experiences, stories, and strength that doesn’t need to be manufactured or gifted to them. It’s already there. My role as a photographer isn’t to create power but to reveal it through observation and attention.

Photography, to me, is not about a make-over. It’s about revelation. Every woman who steps in front of my camera has her own inherent beauty, dignity, and power. My job is to hold space for her, to see her as she is, and to create an image that reflects that truth.

The notion of needing hair and makeup—or any external embellishments—to make a session meaningful feels like we’re sending the wrong message. While these tools can be fun and can enhance the experience for some, they aren’t the cornerstone of the work I want to do. They can’t replace the magic of simply being seen.

Nisha and I didn’t entirely resolve our disagreement that day, but it made me reflect deeply on my intent. Words like “empowering” are tricky. They’re easy to use, but they carry unintended implications. I don’t want to position myself as someone who “empowers” others, because that would deny the truth that women already hold power within them.

Through this project, my aim is simple: to witness, to connect, and to celebrate. If we can honor women as they are—with all their complexity, wisdom, and strength—then perhaps that is where the real magic lies.

Want to see how other women have embraced their authentic power through photography? Visit our Beyond the Gaze project page here to experience their journeys—and feel free to share your own thoughts with us. We’d love to hear from you @ studio@jerome.art