EC MUSE — Joanna Halpin

Model, photographer, and creative, Joanna Halpin has carved a path through both sides of the lens, known for her considered approach to image-making and her enduring, minimalist style. UK-born and now based in New York, Joanna balances city life with time upstate, a rhythm that informs much of her work and perspective.

In conversation, she reflects on her beginnings in Cornwall, the evolution of her style, and how photography has deepened her understanding of both creativity and self-expression. From pared-back everyday dressing to moments of quiet escape, Joanna brings a clarity and intentionality that feels both timeless and distinctly her own.

Tell us a little about yourself and your work. Where are you based at the moment, and how does your current environment shape your work?

Hi I'm Jo and I'm a model and photographer based in New York, living between the city and upstate, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have this balance - the calm and natural rhythm of upstate life provides space for reflection and creativity, while the energy and accessibility of the city keeps me inspired and connected. My surroundings very much influence my work; I'm drawn to natural light, quiet moments, and observing the small, beautiful details in everyday.

What first drew you toward fashion and photography, and how did you find your way into the industry?

I've always been drawn to creative practices, I grew up in beautiful Cornwall, England and studied at an art and design university there before moving to London to start modeling. And then through modeling I have been introduced to different photographers and their ways of working, seeing and capturing moments. Which sparked my own curiosity to try photography for myself; I first started shooting film casually on trips and (with the help from friends) I gradually taught myself and grew in confidence.

Are there particular voices or visionaries in fashion and the arts who continue to inspire you, either in front of the camera or behind it?

I love to seek inspiration everywhere; in light, reflections, shadows, natural landscapes, and the quiet gestures of people around me more so than people. But yes I am continuously inspired by friends, my husband and people in my creative community - I think social media is actually amazing for that, to always have an insight into what other are making, shooting, who is collaborating etc. And living in New York the access to museums, galleries, shows etc - there is constant access to so much inspiration.

You move fluidly between modelling and photography. How do you approach each discipline, and what do they give you creatively?

I love taking self-portraits for the freedom they give me to experiment and explore. Photographing myself has deepened my appreciation for the female form, capturing it in ways that feel both empowered and gentle. This practice has influenced not only my vision behind the camera but also how I move and present myself as a model.

Your name is often aligned with minimalism. Does that idea resonate with you, and how would you describe your personal style today? How has it evolved over time?

Minimalism does resonate with me, but it's more about simplicity and confidence than following any trend or sticking to a style of dressing. My personal style has always been timeless and pared back — jeans, t-shirts, tailored trousers, simple layers.. Over time, I've become even more intentional about what I wear, choosing pieces that feel effortless, authentic, and that I will keep forever.

You live and work across three continents. Do you have a favorite city to work in, and conversely, a destination you return to when you need pause or escape?

New York is incredibly inspiring creatively and professionally, and I love it here and feels like 'home' - but the place that I feel deeply connected to right now is the Greek island of Hydra with it's slower pace of life, the simple daily rituals and its golden light - it's definitely where I escape to when I want to recharge and connect back to myself. Through work I also get to travel a lot so get to spend time in London, LA and Sydney, which are all cities that I have friends, family and feel connected to.