Meet Jalynn Johnson | Model, Photographer, and Creative Director

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jalynn Johnson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jalynn, let’s start by talking about what inspires you?
I am inspired by the culture around me. Going to an HBCU allowed me to learn about myself as well as other people’s experiences and their ways of living. I observe that very often & just feel intrigued by the diversity. Every way I turn my head, I see something new. The inspiration just surrounds me.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Before coming to Atlanta, I had a deep interest in art, I just never knew what kind specifically or where to start. Once I started college, opportunities opened up for me. I began modeling, photography, and gaining more consistency on YouTube. I continued to post quality content on Instagram which brought me most of my opportunities. I started the up and coming “Aviation ATL” creative collective, which was designed to allow new creatives such as models, photographers, graphic designers, and other artists to showcase their talents. I created the name “Aviation ATL” after simply making an Instagram caption for a group photo of my friends and I. Our slang term for how we dress is usually “fly”, so I took that & said “Whole gang fly, Aviation School” which led me to the final name. It is intended to target those who have no idea of where to start pursuing their passion in art, to start with us, and come together as a community to create unique projects. We have done a few photoshoots within the last few months that have been very successful, which makes me extremely proud of myself. It hasn’t been a difficult journey but it hasn’t been a breeze. It does take a lot of tedious effort and time, but it is definitely worth every second. Working with other people has taught me that there are so many different outlooks on one situation, so there is not necessarily a wrong or right way to do things creatively, just be you. If I could express one thing about myself to the world it would be that I will always stay true to myself & those who have helped me along the way. Give back the love and support you receive, you are not the only person who needs it.

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.
For a person new to Atlanta, I think Little Five Points is a nice place to start your exploration here. Ponce City Market is also very popular and they have a lot to offer, especially on the belt line. My favorite place overall is Midtown. It’s such a good example of city life for me because I feel like downtown has too much going on. Midtown is the perfect balance of city & calmness.

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?
To my parents, Dana & Darryl Johnson, thank you for never giving up on me, teaching me how to persevere through any situation that I may face, always believing in me, and never judging me for being myself. I love you both dearly & I’m working everyday to continue to make you proud.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jalsxo?igsh=MTE1d3F0Y2h5cHh3eA==

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@jaltheicon?si=EGWyiiCAPWaQ-8vN