AJ Wilane shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Hi AJ, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: What makes you lose track of time—and find yourself again?
Love this question. I tend to find flow through my interests. Music has been a big inspiration for me throughout life. I love listening to old and new tunes, mixing songs together on my DJ controller, and simply dancing to the beats. I’ve always been passionate about music since I was young, and it’s been amazing to witness how it transforms and transcends through its state of frequency. Immersing myself in nature also makes me lose track of time and feel fully present in my surroundings. I grew up in the countryside and have always appreciated the outdoors and exploring what’s around me. When I first picked up a camera, I’d find myself driving around for hours, discovering scenic spots to document. It’s something I still do in my day-to-day even if I’m just observing how the light hits a certain spot on my drive to work.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m a 21-year-old photographer specializing in editorial, fashion, and environmental portraiture. I’ve shot a wide range of portraits, from concerts to fashion shows, and I enjoy them all. When I’m not capturing portraits, I’m documenting landscapes and anything that captures my eye. I work with both film and digital mediums, and my stylistic approach leans towards an editorial, creative, and cinematic look. I love working with different subjects, capturing fashion, and creating images that tell a story. Whether I’m shooting outdoors or in a studio, I focus on capturing authentic moments that highlight the individuality of my subjects and the concepts at play. My goal is to create photographs that are aesthetically striking and make viewers want to take a second glance.
When I’m not behind the lens, you can find me in front of it. I’ve been stepping into modeling more after getting signed with KC local agency Autre Mgmt at the start of this year, which has been an exciting new beginning! I just recently launched my new podcast series titled Unfinished, where I talk about life experiences, lessons learned, along with spirituality and the philosophies of living. It serves as a place where I can express the unfinished version of myself as I navigate and evolve throughout life. I’ve also been entering the realm of DJing and expressing my love for music behind the decks and in the mix. Movement is essential for us all, and much of the daily tension and stress our bodies build up can be released through the act of movement and dance. The best part about it? I can do it all from the comfort of my home.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
That I had to behave a certain way and act accordingly. I feel like a lot of my time was spent finding myself whilst being told who to be simultaneously. I can attribute a majority of that based on the pursuit of trying to live up to the expectations of others. I think I was trying to fit in too much based on the external noise and societal expectations around me. At some point, I realized that there’s no need to “fit in” when I could just exist as my authentic self. Authenticity is a gift within all of us, and we’re all unique and different in our own ways. Why try to be something you’re not? If people have something to say, that says more about their character than yours. The ones who aren’t meant for you will simply exit your life, and that’s perfectly fine. They were never meant to stay anyways.
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
Ironically enough, perception and vulnerability. I’ve experienced waves of anxiety throughout my life, which have often felt like roadblocks. Anyone familiar with anxiety knows it’s easier said than done to simply act without overthinking every possible scenario. As much as it has affected my life, I’ve reached a place where I try to call it out in the moment. Anxiety often stems from fear which means there are ways to work through it. Exposure therapy via expressing myself, online and in the real world, has helped me slowly let go of the fear of perception. Allowing myself to be seen and to have vulnerable moments is something I now try to embrace, rather than retreating into my shell. Don’t get me wrong though, those moments of retreat are still a necessity for me. Recharging through isolation helps calm the internal noise. It’s all about balance.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I’m a firm believer that there is a season for everything. People, places, passions, you name it. I often find myself starting new endeavors, but one thing I’m committed to is seeing them through. A phrase I live by is “all in due time.” Rushing the process is overrated; I prefer a thoughtful, slower approach to life. Presence is something I value and strive to bring to each moment as it comes. By dedicating time and energy to one task at a time, I tend to produce my best work. Right now, my energy is focused on my new podcast Unfinished. It’s become a meaningful outlet for self-expression and a space where I challenge myself to show up and grow with each episode. We’re multifaceted beings after all, and it would be a shame not to explore all aspects of ourselves. Curiosity keeps us open to new ideas and pursuits, and ensures we remain lifelong learners.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace when I’m in solitude and simply being without thinking. My mind is always racing and it can be hard to slow down around all of the external noise. Mindfulness and spirituality are two essential pillars in my life that help me retain a calm and grounded approach to life. Peace is when time slows down and I’m not rushing to the next thing. That often happens when I’m immersed in nature, surrounded by stillness and the sounds of summer. It’s all about the quiet in-between moments: watching light move through the trees, listening to the cicadas buzz, or losing myself in a melody I’m mixing. Whether it’s journaling, creating, or simply sitting with my thoughts, it’s the clarity that comes from tuning out the noise and tuning into what’s real for me. Peace for me ultimately is presence — however it shows up.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://ajwilanephoto.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ajwilanephoto/
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@jacar.w?si=bSyHMeXVkNzQ1WlZ
- Soundcloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/XzAsjjgGldP9Ds9PHq
Image Credits
Markel Randle – captured the photo of me
