Jillian Pfennig Interview

Introduction

Jillian Pfennig approaches modeling with the eye of an artist and the presence of a storyteller. Her journey began long before she stepped in front of the camera, shaped by a childhood fascination with magazines, photography, and the quiet dream of one day creating images of her own. What makes Jillian’s work especially compelling is the duality she brings to every set: she understands both the vision behind the lens and the emotion required in front of it. As both model and photographer, she is not simply posing for an image, she is helping to build its atmosphere, its character, and its visual language.

Her presence is quietly commanding, elegant, and deeply intentional. Whether embracing a dark editorial mood, a romantic softness, or the complete freedom of self-portraiture, Jillian brings a strong creative instinct to her work. Through her images, she hopes to inspire emotion, confidence, and the belief that art belongs to every body willing to step into it.

Interview

1. How did your journey into modeling begin?
My journey into modeling actually started when I was a kid. I would flip through magazines and keep a binder of images that spoke to me, photos I dreamed of recreating one day.

2. What first drew you to modeling and fashion?
Photography was my first love, and fashion was the natural companion to it. I used to stage photoshoots with my sister and friends, and as I got older I started experimenting with a tripod, trying different angles and themes on myself. The crossover between photographer and subject felt inevitable.

3. How would you describe your identity and presence as a model?
I'd describe my presence as quietly commanding. I bring an art-first perspective to every shoot because I spend just as much time behind the camera as in front of it. That dual vantage point shapes how I move, how I pose, and how I collaborate. I want to be a creative partner in whatever we're making, not a passive subject.

4. What do you enjoy most about being in front of the camera?
I love transforming into whoever the shoot needs me to be. Channeling different parts of my personality is so fun, whether it's a dark and moody concept or something fun and bubbly. Slipping into that persona is what helps me get the best photos possible.

5. How do you prepare yourself mentally and creatively before a shoot?
Because I'm also a photographer, I usually have a mental library of images I want to create before I even step on set. I love collaborating with photographers and makeup artists to build on that vision, and I'm always open to trying a weird position or unexpected idea if it means getting the shot.

6. What helps you connect with a concept or mood during an editorial?
It comes down to fully immersing myself in the world of the concept. I love a wide range of aesthetics, so I try to find the thread in each one that I can genuinely feel, whether that's the softness of a romantic editorial or the edge of something darker. Once I feel it, the poses and expressions follow naturally.

7. How would you describe your personal style outside of modeling?
My personal style is rooted in simple elegance. I love getting dressed for the occasion, whatever it calls for. If it's Oktoberfest, I'm in a dirndl. If it's a black-tie night, I'm in a gown. I think there's something really special about leaning into the spirit of a moment through what you wear, whether that's a traditional outfit, an everyday look pulled together with intention, or a full editorial moment just because.

8. What has been one of the most memorable moments of your modeling journey so far?
I was modeling at an event, walking around in one of the designer's gowns, when Sharon Stone came up to me and told me I was gorgeous and to keep going. Earlier that day the designer had complained that my hips were too big and switched the dress I was supposed to wear, so I was feeling completely defeated. Having Sharon Stone approach me just to say keep going was the push I needed to continue on this journey.

9. What do you hope people feel or see when they look at your images?
I always want people to feel emotion from my photos, regardless of what that emotion might be. Also, as a plus model, I hope to inspire people to still create art and put themselves out there despite their size, etc.

10. What are your goals and dreams for the future as a model?
I want to keep pushing my boundaries, keep translating my visions into reality, and continue growing my community. Most of all I hope to keep getting opportunities to create magic with other artists!

Bonus Q: You do a lot of self-portrait work. What’s that process like for you?
I work as a self-portrait model often, which means I'm the creative director, photographer, and subject all at once. I love the freedom of simply creating on my own terms, though it can be hard being the only set of eyes on a project. Having full control and watching a vision come to life is incredibly rewarding, and I still love the shoots where I get to collaborate with other creatives and make something magical together.

Conclusion

Jillian Pfennig’s story is one of creativity, resilience, and artistic self-possession. From staging early photoshoots with friends to directing her own self-portrait work, she has built a modeling identity rooted in imagination, collaboration, and emotional honesty. Her memorable encounter with Sharon Stone became more than a beautiful moment; it became a reminder to keep going, to trust her presence, and to continue creating despite doubt or discouragement.

As she looks toward the future, Jillian remains focused on growth, community, and the magic that happens when artists come together with a shared vision. With her thoughtful approach, elegant presence, and art-first perspective, she continues to prove that modeling is not only about appearance, but about transformation, storytelling, and the courage to be fully seen.

Model: @jillianpfennig

Photo: @pixelflock