Rediscovering Worth: Joey’s CRAVE Experience
When Joey walked through the doors for his CRAVE session, he carried more than just a wardrobe bag and a nervous smile. He carried years of self-doubt, an inner critic that spoke too loudly, and the weight of a life spent giving everything to everyone else — but leaving little for himself.
In Joey’s words, “I wish I could see myself how others see me.” He described how he tended to fixate on what he viewed as flaws: his weight, his hair, his lack of drive to do things, and the adventurous spirit he felt had dimmed over the years. Since becoming a parent, Joey had given his all to his two boys, pouring himself into their lives to ensure they had everything he could provide. But this dedication came at a cost: the man he used to see in the mirror felt like a distant memory. In fact, Joey confessed he’d rather live in a world without mirrors altogether than face the reflection of someone he felt he no longer recognized.
A Safe Space to Be Seen
CRAVE is more than a photoshoot. It’s a transformative experience designed to empower individuals—men, women, anyone looking to reconnect with their worth and value. It’s about peeling back layers of doubt and rediscovering the unique, wonderful person beneath. For Joey, it was a brave step into the unknown, a chance to look at himself through a different lens—literally and figuratively.
As we talked before the session began, Joey shared what held him back. Like so many of us, he’d fallen into the habit of focusing on what he saw as imperfections, to the point where he’d forgotten the vibrant, compassionate, and courageous person those around him saw daily. It was my goal to help Joey rediscover that part of himself—and show him that beauty isn’t about perfection, but authenticity.
The Session
With carefully curated music in the background and soft lighting setting the tone, Joey stepped in front of the camera. Each click captured not just a picture but a story of resilience and strength. Slowly but surely, the energy in the room shifted. What began as hesitation gave way to moments of confidence—a laugh at an unexpected joke, a proud stance when he realized the power in his frame.
When I showed Joey a few shots from the back of the camera, his reaction was the reason I do this work. For the first time in a long time, Joey didn’t see flaws staring back at him. He saw joy. He saw dignity. He saw Joey.
Finding Himself Again
At the end of the session, Joey shared something that struck me deeply: “I didn’t realize how much I’d been missing myself.” Seeing his photos reminded him that, while he may have spent years putting himself aside for his family, there was still space to nurture his own spirit. The man he once saw in the mirror wasn’t gone—he’d just been waiting for permission to shine again.
The CRAVE Difference
Joey’s story is a powerful reminder of what CRAVE is all about. It’s not just for women; it’s for anyone who’s ready to challenge the narrative that they aren’t enough. CRAVE sessions empower people to rediscover the worth that’s always been there—even if life’s challenges have made it harder to see.
To Joey and everyone else out there feeling lost when they look in the mirror: you are worthy. You are enough. And sometimes, all it takes is a single step—a moment of vulnerability—to find your way back to yourself.
Are you ready to take that step? Let’s do it together. Reach out today to book your CRAVE session and start your journey toward rediscovering the extraordinary person you are.
