Aberdeen Photographer: Are You a Living Ghost? / by Leticia Gaidon Bradford

I was a living ghost for a while, invisible, quietly working behind the scenes, avoiding the spotlight. That all changed when, out of necessity, I had to represent my own brand. I couldn’t hide anymore. Something had to shift, and it started with my mindset.

One of the great things about being a solopreneur is that it forces you to face those mental blocks you’ve been comfortably sitting behind. But here’s the thing: you don’t have to be self-employed to do the same. In fact, if you’re reading this, I’m pretty sure you’re already smart enough to take action without waiting for pressure to push you there.

Woman with crossed arms is smiling and looking at the camera. Aberdeen photographer - Leticia Gaidon Bradford Photography - Headshots & Personal branding - Contemporary portraits - Boudoir - Dating App Profile - Blog

Self-portrait taken on my birthday during the 366 Days Year Challenge. ©Leticia Gaidon Bradford Photography.

Over the past few months, I’ve noticed a pattern in my conversations with clients and prospects, especially those over 40. I keep hearing the same phrase:

"I don’t think anyone cares what I do anymore… I’m too old to be putting myself out there."

So they hide. They step back. They avoid being the face of their business or brand, and slowly start disappearing from the digital world.

But I want to challenge that idea today.

It’s not who you are that holds you back,
it’s who you think you’re not.

You are not too old. You are too valuable to hide.

The truth is, younger generations need to see people ageing with purpose, pride, and presence. Visibility isn’t just about marketing, it’s about leadership.
It’s about showing that ageing doesn’t mean fading away, it means evolving, deepening, and continuing to contribute in meaningful ways.

The world needs your expertise, and your stories.

There’s so much noise online, but what cuts through it isn’t perfection or trendiness, it’s wisdom, authenticity, and experience. You’ve lived through challenges, built skills, and gained insights that others wish they had. Why keep all of that hidden?

Sharing your voice, your values, and your face, especially as a professional over 40, is a form of empowerment. Not just for you, but for those watching you.

Age is strictly a case of mind over matter. If you don’t mind, it doesn’t matter.
— Jack Benny

Visibility is wellness.

Showing up doesn’t only support your business, it supports your health, too. Creating content, having your photo taken, speaking publicly, and engaging with your community helps you stay mentally active, socially connected, and emotionally energised.

Woman holding a round reflector is smiling at the camera. Aberdeen photographer - Leticia Gaidon Bradford Photography - Headshots & Personal branding - Contemporary portraits - Boudoir - Dating App Profile - Blog

©Leticia Gaidon Bradford Photography.

Isolation can creep in quietly, especially in a world that often overlooks people as they age. But when you choose to be seen, you are claiming space. You're reminding yourself, and others, that your voice still matters.

So if you’ve been hiding… gently ask yourself why. And then, maybe, take one small step forward: share a post, update your headshot, tell a story, record a video.

Let the world see who you are now, because ageing isn’t a reason to disappear. It’s a reason to show up, even brighter than before.


Follow me in Instagram, Facebook or Threads. You can find me also in LinkedIn.

Thank you for reading.

Bye for now.