Behind The Lens: Joanne Mierzejewski

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What is your story? Tell us a little about yourself.

Hi ! My name is Joanne, Jo or J for short. I am a 25 year old New York native (born in BK, grew up in SI and went to university in Queens, now residing in Manhattan). I currently work in Finance and have a plethora of interests to keep me busy whilst not at work. I volunteer at an animal shelter, play soccer on multiple teams per season, attend the gym daily (sometimes twice) and in my spare time read or play the piano. I enjoy going out with my friends to clubs or bars for a night filled with laughs and much dancing. I seem to live by the motto I’ll sleep when I die! 

What inspired you to become a model?  What continues to inspire you today?

What inspired me was that I felt like I needed, or wanted, a creative outlet. A friend of mine who was doing some photography offered to do a shoot for me, and I just had so much fun being in front of the camera. What continues to inspire me is the creative twist there is to it, the art. When a photographer (or me) has an image or idea they want to re-create it is just so much fun making that come to life!

Which shoot was most memorable to you?  Which shoot was the worst? Why?

My most memorable shoot was probably my first one. I had a full team of hair and make up artists, with multiple wardrobe changes. I remember feeling like I was on America’s Next Top Model (not even close) and it was just so much fun! My worst - which I won’t go into too much detail - was with a photographer who just seemed to not even be interested, which then why were we even doing it. This should be fun, it’s creative, when you’re not into it, it’s hard for a model to be.

Who and what brands in the modeling industry would you like to work with?

I would absolutely love to work with Nike, or a similar company. I’ve always been told I have an athletic body type (which makes sense given I am an athlete and love working out) and being petite, it seems like a niche I would be so great at. I also am super passionate about the attire, as you can imagine the amount of my wardrobe which is workout attire.

What advice would you give to those struggling with self-worth issues?

Stop comparing yourself to others. As someone who goes to the gym everyday and eats healthy, I’m also aware that genetically I will never look a certain way. I’ve learned to work around that and look the best I CAN. Also, when you start worrying too much, there is a problem, you need to change your point of view.

What is your greatest attribute in front of the camera?

I think it’s my ability to take direction. I am able to listen to what a photographer is looking for or adjusting and bring that to the forefront of my look.

What is your greatest attribute when nobody is watching?  As in, when nobody’s looking, how do you act?

My greatest attribute when nobody is watching is probably my goofiness. I wouldn’t say this is only when no one is looking, but I definitely turn it down when I’m not as comfortable in front of someone.

If you weren’t modeling, what would you be doing?

I’m not actually sure.

What makes you unique or different from other models?

I think I’m aware of what works and what doesn’t work for me. If something doesn’t go right, I don’t get down on myself, I use it as a lesson and try and figure out what WILL work for me. I think a lot of models want everything to work for them, and when it doesn’t, they get upset. 

What sorts of volunteer work do you involve yourself with?  As a model, what social cause(s) do you stand for?

I currently volunteer for the Animal Care Center of Manhattan whenever I have free time. I love animals, and think they deserve love and care, just like they give. 

What do you have going on next and where can people connect with you?

I have a shoot this week for a camera feature testing! It will be my first shoot that will also involve a video portion, rather than just still photos. People can connect with me on my instagram @j.model_x I’m super social and love meeting and supporting new people. After all, we’re all in this journey together.

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