Joi McGee

Photo by @marshallsaintjohnphoto

New to The Scene

We caught up with newcomer, Joi McGee (aka Joi Mia), model and actress with DMe Talent Agency.

When did you first get involved as a model?

I first got involved in modeling July of last year. I didn’t do many photo shoots or shows at first, but in January I started working, shooting, and training consistently.

What or Who inspired you to pursue such a competitive career?

My Agent, Deidre Michelle. I hadn’t ever considered modeling until I met her at an event. She asked if I had ever modeled, and upon hearing I hadn’t, told me I had a lot of potential and that she’d love to work with me. That really inspired me to start taking classes and I really felt a connection with it so I decided to continue training and working.

I’m sure you have met a lot of talented individuals and/or celebrities along the way. Would you share 1 or 2 of your favorite stories with us?

I have absolutely met talented people along the way, more than I can count. A few months ago a did a collaboration shoot with Brian Spencer and Jahailah Graham, and they easily became two of my favorite people to work with. When we work together, getting great shots feels as easy as breathing and we have amazing concepts.I also recently did a group shoot at an Airbnb, and I met so many amazing models and photographers there. Everyone had great chemistry and it was an all around great time.

How has your modeling evolved since you first started?

I didn’t take a lot of pictures before I began modeling, not even selfies, so I had no understanding of angles or lighting. I also really had no idea what kind of photos I enjoyed taking, or poses that fit my personality. As I do more shoots I continually get more comfortable in my own skin and I feel like my recent photos reflect this. I have also had photographers teach me about how their lights work and reflect on camera, which has allowed me to loosen up and try more out of the box poses.

If you were forced to choose only one, which emotion, more than any other drives you to stay in these tough careers? Is it joy, anger, desire, passion or pride and why?

Modeling makes me feel self-possessed, and that’s a feeling that I think many people chase and unfortunately some people never do. I never want to take that feeling for granted, I’m so blessed to feel it, and I’ll absolutely continue chasing it.

Which ingredient do you think makes you special and unique as a model in an industry overflowing with new faces and ideas?

I think my my style and my determination to change the industry are what makes me unique. I naturally drift towards 80s and 90s thrifted clothes which makes for some cool original pieces. I also try to include pieces I’ve made or altered as often as I can when I shoot and in daily life. I am also extremely

Photo by @bspencerphoto, MUA @bettyrosebyalanna

Photo by @bspencerphoto, MUA @bettyrosebyalanna

Photo by @mayapologies, Stylist @miri.boheme

determined to model high fashion print, and runway. By industry standards I am too “short”, but those are just going to have to change.

What has been your biggest challenge as a model? Have you been able to overcome that challenge? If so, how?

As I mentioned before I am short by industry standards. This leads to putting extra effort in to look taller during shoots and fashion shows. I have been able to overcome that for the most part, but since my ultimate goal is high fashion, only time will tell if I fully will.

A common phrase as a performing artist is, “you must suffer for your art”. Do you agree with this statement? If so, how have you suffered for your art?

I believe this differs from person to person. I personally struggle with a lot of social anxiety. This leads to panic attacks before fashion shows, large photo shoots, or really anything new. This is something extremely hard for me and I often feel embarrassed by it, but if I want to grow I know I need to just breathe.

How do you feel the Internet has impacted the modeling business?

The internet has given us access to almost everything. From my bedroom I can submit to agency’s across the world, I can network with new photographers, I can get inspiration, and a million other things. The internet is such an amazing tool and I think it has really allowed the industry to grow and share creativity.

Do you have any hidden talents?

I was a competitive cheerleader for 15 years, and occasionally you can find me tumbling at an open gym. I also occasionally write, although I rarely let people see my work.

What is the best advice you have received?

That you can learn something from absolutely everyone.

What projects are you currently working on... that you can talk about?

I was featured in Malvie Magazine recently and I have some really amazing creative shoots coming up. I also just finished a film project.

How can fans-to-be follow your career?

They can follow me on Instagram @joimiamodels or they can like my Facebook page: Joi Mia

Photo by @brokenchainphotography

Photo by @mayapologies, with model @Evanz.Chavez

Photo by @bspencerphoto, MUA @bettyrosebyalanna