Women’s Portraits - Charlottesville, Virginia

Kelye Rouse Brown Women Over 50 Portrait Experience

I had the honor of photographing Kelye Brown for my Women Over 50 project here in Charlottesville. Kelye is an entrepreneur, a leader in the hospitality industry, and the founder of Wholistic Women Living. She has built her career on lifting others up, and she continues to champion women in both business and life.

From the moment she walked into my studio, Kelye carried herself with a mix of strength and warmth. She has a presence that fills the room, but she also has a calmness that makes you feel at ease right away. That balance—confidence with kindness—made photographing her a joy.

As we talked, she shared stories of building her business, creating space for women to thrive, and navigating challenges with resilience. I could see that same spirit come through in her portraits. Every expression, every gesture reflected a woman who knows who she is and uses that knowledge to make a difference.

Photographing Kelye reminded me why I started this project. Women over 50 are too often overlooked in photographs, but they are leaders, creators, and mentors. They shape communities in powerful ways. Kelye is a perfect example of that.

When she saw her portraits, her smile said everything. This wasn’t just about capturing her image. It was about honoring her story.

The Women Over 50 project is about giving women like Kelye the space to be seen and celebrated. These portraits are proof that beauty, influence, and purpose don’t fade with time. They grow stronger.

—Arnel Gonce
Arnel Gonce Photography, Charlottesville, Virginia