Image via Complex Original
Jennifer Medina's snapshots of her day-to-day life make us feel like we're doing it wrong, or at least like we're not having as much fun as we should be. Like the work of Sandy Kim or Ryan McGinley, Medina's photos capture the essence of being young and free, which combined with fantastical color schemes (used by artists like Neil Krug), take viewers on a vibrant adventure.
Medina tells us that, for her, "Every shoot is inspired by spontaneity and working with the unexpected." She adds, "The lack of hyper-preparedness gives way to an almost magical flow where freedom takes over, and something new is created." As one can see from her images, typically with models she's met by chance or over the Internet, few of these scenarios seem like they could even be staged.
We got Medina to share her favorite photos with us and the stories behind them. For more, follow her on Instagram @lulannie.
“I met Julia online, which is how I meet most people I know really. We then spent the afternoon at the quiet beaches and abandoned hotels in Malibu. It was my first time being there after living in L.A. for half a year. Julia was the last person I shot before moving to New York.”
“When I first moved to L.A., I’d spend most nights at warehouse parties and after-hours events photographing strangers who ended up becoming wonderful friends.”
“This photo ignites a whirlwind of precious L.A. memories for reasons I can’t explain. Thank you for being a part of them.”
“I was at a band's afterparty when Miro arrived in a cab to the Lower East Side with two suitcases. It was our first time meeting. He had come from Amsterdam and stayed with me for a week while we “adventured” around. This particular night, some friends joined Miro and I as we decided to spontaneously take Citibikes over the Williamsburg Bridge, racing while watching the skyline.”
“Mark is among the most memorable characters I’ve ever known. Having only spoken to him online, I booked him a ticket to L.A., where we quickly formed an intimate friendship and ended up living together. We now live blocks from each other in Brooklyn, and I snapped this photo during one of many wild outings with him.”
“Last fall, when I realized that the season of shooting comfortably outdoors was coming to an end, I posted a Facebook status with instructions to meet at Penn Station early the following morning for an impromptu trip upstate. I had no idea who might show up, and I was surprised to find a huge group of amazing people who made the trip and came along. We hiked to the top of Bear Mountain where we threw a little party and everyone posed freely for what became some of my favorite photos I’ve ever taken. Afterwards, we slid down the mountain, landing in the middle of a highway, completely lost. After wandering for hours, we came upon a lake and decided to skinny dip. Pictured here is Luna, a magical girl who has been traveling the world from Berlin and spent this particular day with us.”
“When Olof would visit me from his hometown Stockholm, we would frequent what we called our secret rooftop. We’d sneak in and decorate the space with balloons and Christmas lights, throwing parties for our friends. During the day, we’d run around it and take photos, climb water towers, and share introspective conversations. Recently I tried to visit the rooftop only to find it inaccessible. I like to think we’re only able to get in when Olof is here. "
“After telling two close New York friends that I’d be spending the holidays in L.A., they insisted on joining me. The three of us stayed with friends in Pasadena and made each day a mini road trip to nearby locations. I ended up shooting a series with them spontaneously, making this my favorite trip in a while. Everyone felt so uplifted and energized; it was a great ending to 2014.”
“Most of the photographs I take lately are of McKenzie. We often travel together and go through all sorts of situations to get the perfect shot. Currently I am in the midwest with her, working and spending time together. She is my muse. "
“Paul is my oldest, closest friend. We are often apart, as we both travel for work frequently, but we remain in close touch and lift each other up despite the physical distance. Currently he is in Asia, and I will be visiting him during the spring to continue documenting all of our wonderful adventures.”
