Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jasmin Mieles . We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Jasmin , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.

risks are taken everyday, yes? something as simple as like when we walk out of our home, not knowing if we’ll even make it back home! One of the many risks I’ve taken in this lifetime was when I left everything I knew & loved in NYC for the Wild Wild West.
change was in the air and all signs pointed to California; my job had ended, my apt building was being sold etc.
Never in a million years did this die hard New Yorker think she’d ever move to LA!!
Yet here I was-I was willing to risk it all because not only was everything ending but the man I still loved had moved to California.
Although I strongly feel no one should move anywhere for anyone, (only for yourself), I felt our love was worth a second chance. I’d start all over in the golden state with no guarantee!
Moving 3000 miles from my friends, my family for love and a fresh start was worth it! It was now or never.
20 years later- the relationship did not work out but it got me here and moving here was the best thing I could have ever done for myself.
Heartbreaking, challenging and all kinds of trial and error episodes but I took a chance and I feel universe rewarded me.
Ultimately, all those experiences made me the strong woman I am today

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I was born & raised in NYC- my parents moved here from Puerto Rico. I was an actor a for a long time but photography was an outlet/hobby as was writing. I “retired” from acting back in 2009 when it was no longer fulfilling me so I dove into photography. I feel I provide a fun, safe intimate experience while we join energies to capture your vibe/essence via the camera. It is a joint venture to explore and create how you want to show yourself to the world. And seeing I’ve worked many years in front of the camera- I know how challenging & nerve wracking that can be sometimes..
I am proud that I’ve stood by my dreams as I’ve also had to work “regular jobs” to pay the bills.
There were so many instances, as most artists can relate, family would discourage me from pursuing my dreams – not understanding as an artist- I knew no other way to live. I can’t imagine never creating.
I love taking ideas and making magic. I do it all with love and enthusiasm, falling in love every time.
I don’t consider myself a brand; I’m just a human being who wants to bring light to the world through fantastical bright imagery, It may sound hokey or woo woo but it’s just how I approach this thing called life.
Music, nature and cinema always inspiring the way..

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

there is absolutely no guarantee or retirement plan in being a photographer.. its just me, my instincts and my heart leading the way and that may sound foolish to many- the arts are not for the weak of heart. you even have to have a sliver of madness to pursue the arts but I don’t know how to not follow my heart.
I think Kurt Vonnegut said it best, “I’m not kidding. The arts are not a way to make a living. They are a very human way of making life more bearable. Practicing an art, no matter how well or badly, is a way to make your soul grow, for heaven’s sake. Sing in the shower. Dance to the radio. Tell stories. Write a poem to a friend, even a lousy poem. Do it as well as you possible can. You will get an enormous reward. You will have created something.”
I become a better human through the artist’s way. and seeing the world is full of sad and angry people, being a kind aware human is my way of balancing shit out.

Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?

I don’t have a specific book- too many to list music and poetry also being a guiding light to all I do but I’ll tell you this:
keep reading, learning, and seeking experiences that keep you aware of how big and layered this world is.
be open to meeting all kinds of people- even stepping out of your “tribe” once in a while-
you’ll be surprised how much you have in common with someone you never thought possible.
there is so much to learn- especially from one another!! how can one ever be bored? open your eyes and just look – get excited, recognize what a trip this all is and despite all the terrors and sadness – there is beauty everywhere!!!
~ my two cents

Contact Info:

• Website: jasminmieles.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jasminmieles_photo/ and @jashoney

Image Credits
jasmin mieles