We had the good fortune of connecting with Angie Mejia and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Angie, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
My work life balance has been changing a lot since I’ve started college and until now since we are in a pandemic. I use to take more time when it came to my personal going out life but I have calmed down since then. It seems like life becomes more busy by the second and taking time for myself is choosing between down time, exercise time and photography. I just try to do what I can and plan ahead of time. Having an agenda showing me what I need to do for the day and if I have things to do helps keep me in check with my work life balance. I try not to be too upset when things get out of my control, I just try to adjust and make time to keep me sane.
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am a film photographer and stylist based in Miami, Florida. I specialize in portrait and fashion photography. I have been working on my film photography for about two years now. I have much to learn yet I’ve already learned so much in these past two years. I’ve met so many amazing people and explored so many places in Miami, that makes everything I do feel so special. Ive been taking portraits of my friends and clients for quite a while. I had to talk to many people, put myself out there on social media for my services, and deal with a lot of trial and error to get to this place. Film is quite a difficult format to master and dealing with the process of it, is something I enjoy so much. Learning to get the the technical stuff out the way was one of my challenges at first, finding the right camera for my level and needs is a challenge in itself since film cameras are not as available as regular digital cameras. There are big risks in film photography like pictures not coming out as expected, light leaks, and the fact that you can’t go back and recreate something until it’s too late. I enjoy taking portraits and giving people make overs in what I would style someone in. I love to create a different atmosphere in my pictures yet show the vibrance of someone and their energy. I want the world to know I want to create looks, stories, and messages with my pictures. I want to create unforgettable pictures and leave people stunned!
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
There are so many spots in Miami you can possibly take someone! If my best friend was visiting from another place, the first place I would take them to eat is the Taco Stand in Wynwood because the “California Burrito” is to die for. I love going to places in nature and to peacefully be away from so much commotion in the city, so I would also say to start their day by going to Virginia Beach to tan and explore. Then I would recommend to go thrifting at Flamingo Plaza after eating some sushi at Moshi Moshi. Another place I always go to is 1800 Lucky for some nice asian fusion food and drinks. They usually have live DJs playing and must be fun for any out of towner. Other places they should check out: Alice Wainwright Park, South pointe, Design District, Lot 11, East Rooftop at Brickell.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to give a shout out to my girlfriends. I wouldn’t be anywhere near where I am if it wasn’t for the support they’ve given me the past years and allowing me to grow and become successful. They help me keep going and look forward to the simple things. I am very grateful for them!
Instagram: instagram.com/angie.vero
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angievero/
Image Credits
Personal Photo: Gabriela Da Silva (ig: metalilicbutterfli ) All other photos are my personal projects and artwork.