Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Joy Devries. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Joy, so great to have you with us and we want to jump right into a really important question. In recent years, it’s become so clear that we’re living through a time where so many folks are lacking self-confidence and self-esteem. So, we’d love to hear about your journey and how you developed your self-confidence and self-esteem.
Confidence and self-esteem are often regarded as elusive traits, but my journey to embracing both has been deeply rooted in my upbringing and the experiences I’ve gathered over the years. From an early age, my parents instilled in me the belief that I am inherently good enough. Their unwavering support and encouragement fostered a sense of happiness within myself that has proven invaluable as I navigated life’s challenges. This foundational belief laid the groundwork for my self-esteem, illustrating that it truly begins with those who nurture us during our formative years.
Having spent over a decade as a female portrait photographer, I have witnessed a recurring theme among the women I photograph: a tendency to focus on perceived imperfections rather than celebrating their unique beauty. Time and again, I’ve seen how women, even those who society labels as classically beautiful, can be their own harshest critics. They often scrutinize themselves in photos, barely glancing at others around them. This phenomenon highlighted to me that self-esteem issues are universal, cutting across age, body type, and appearance.
As I entered my forties, I began to realize that any amount of energy spent worrying about what others think of me was robbing me of genuine enjoyment in life. The more I let go of these concerns, the more I found that people are naturally drawn to my confidence and the authenticity that comes with it. Confidence, I’ve learned, is one of the most attractive qualities a person can possess. It radiates and invites others to connect with you on a deeper level.
In my role as an empowerment photographer, I am committed to uplifting women and helping them recognize their beauty at any age or size. Through my lens, I aim to capture not just the image, but the spirit of each woman—reminding them that the flaws they fixate on often fade away when viewed through a compassionate perspective. It is incredibly rewarding to watch women light up with delight as they see themselves reflected in my photographs, free from the imperfections they usually focus on.
Instead of striving for an unattainable ideal of perfection, I have come to embrace my own perfectly imperfect self. I take pride in the fact that my journey has led me to a place where I can celebrate the beauty of others while appreciating my own. My mission as a photographer is to create a space where women can shed their insecurities, recognize their worth, and feel empowered to embrace who they are—flaws and all. Ultimately, it is this empowerment that fosters true confidence and self-esteem, allowing women to shine brightly in their authenticity.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
My journey as a photographer has been a profound reflection of the various stages of my life, mirroring the evolution of my identity and passions. Initially, I began my career as a newborn and family photographer, capturing the tender moments of families as they grew. This phase resonated deeply with my own experiences as a young parent, filled with joy and discovery. I reveled in the beauty of new beginnings, celebrating milestones through the lens of my camera, which allowed me to document the love and connection that blossomed within families.
As my children grew and my own life entered a phase of feeling somewhat lackluster, I found myself yearning for deeper fulfillment. It was during this time that I transitioned into women’s empowerment photography. I began to realize that many women, much like myself, often felt aged and unimportant amidst the demands of life. I was invigorated by the excitement and upliftment I experienced during boudoir and portrait sessions, where I witnessed firsthand the transformation that occurs when women reconnect with their inner selves. My mission became clear: to help women remember who they were before they became everything to everyone else. Through my lens, I sought to capture not just their outer beauty, but also their spirit and individuality, reminding them that they are worthy of celebration and love.
Recently, I embarked on a new project called the “40 Over 40 Portrait Experience,” specifically aimed at women over 40. This initiative is designed to showcase the beauty and strength that women possess at every age. I believe that life is rich with stories that deserve to be told, and through this project, I will photograph 40 women, each representing their unique journeys and experiences. At the culmination of this endeavor, I plan to host a gallery showing featuring portraits of each participant, accompanied by interviews that highlight their paths to this current stage in life. I hope to create a space where women can feel empowered, appreciated, and celebrated, reinforcing the idea that beauty is not bound by age, but rather flourishes with each passing year.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Throughout my personal journey, three qualities have profoundly shaped my growth: self-reflection, communication, and understanding. Self-reflection has allowed me to evaluate my experiences and motivations, helping me to stay aligned with my true self; I encourage those just starting out to keep a journal to capture their thoughts and feelings, as it can illuminate their paths. Effective communication has been essential in building strong relationships, ensuring that those around me feel heard and valued; I recommend practicing active listening and engaging in open conversations to foster deeper connections. Lastly, cultivating an understanding of the diverse experiences of others has enriched my life and broadened my perspective; I suggest immersing yourself in different communities and seeking out varied stories to enhance your empathy. By developing these qualities, you’ll not only grow personally but also create meaningful connections that enrich your life.
Who is your ideal client or what sort of characteristics would make someone an ideal client for you?
My ideal client is a woman in the latter half of her life, someone who has experienced both ups and downs but ultimately finds that her journey has been the most rewarding part. She is adventurous and open to trying new things, seeking experiences that push her out of her comfort zone. This woman appreciates art and understands the value it brings to life, recognizing that it can be a powerful means of self-expression and connection. She is ready to celebrate her unique story and share her beauty, both inside and out, through a creative and empowering experience.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://aliljoyphoto.com
- Instagram: @aliljoyphoto
- Facebook: @aliljoyphotos
Image Credits
Joy DeVries, Aliljoy Photography
Brennan Tolman, Vitamin B Videography
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
