Earlier this fall I had the wonderful opportunity to photograph Joanne Iannacchino. I asked Joanne what advice she would give her younger self and the younger generation making their way today.
A proud, first-generation American, Joanne shared that in her younger years she only wished to fit in and be like everyone else. She felt small and unseen.
“As I reflect on my previous years, I wanted to share this lesson and new knowledge with my children and the younger generation making their way. Be that strong, powerful, authentic person. Be heard. It’s not only OK, it’s GREAT. It’s where you should be. Have the guts to do it.”
Joanne continued, “Be a strong, empowered woman, who believes in herself. Not small Not invisible. Very VISIBLE It took getting to my 50s to understand this, but who I should be. It’s who I am. Being authentic, believing in myself, not being afraid to show up and not keeping myself small. Not sitting in the back of the room, in a room full of men, but rather sitting right in the middle of the conversation. This past year I’ve worked on myself and have seen a huge growth, allowing myself to be seen and heard. That powerful woman I had inside me all of these years is coming out, with confidence. This is my year to be seen.”
Joanne, thank you for sharing this. You’re an amazing strong, powerful, authentic woman who I greatly admire. I think it’s taken many of us years to understand this. Thank you for sharing this lesson with those just making their way.
About Alissa
Alissa Randall is a portrait photographer based in New Jersey and New York City, known for creating images that feel both elevated and deeply personal. While professional headshots remain a cornerstone of her work, her photography has grown to include personal branding, women’s empowerment, family connection sessions, and expressive portraits of dogs and the people who love them.
Her approach blends editorial artistry with empathy and guidance, helping people feel comfortable enough to be fully seen in front of the camera. Whether photographing an executive, an entrepreneur, a family, or a beloved dog, Alissa creates photographs that reflect more than appearance. They reflect presence, personality, connection, and story.
Alissa photographs in NJ, NYC, and on location beyond the tri-state area. Explore more of her work on the homepage and discover stories behind the images on the blog.