Meet Mia

Howdy!

Born in San Diego and spending many of my formative years on an island in the Bahamas, my unique upbringing has deeply influenced my visual narrative. Drawing inspiration from these diverse environments, I blend elements of nature and urban aesthetics into my work. My style is characterized by the juxtaposition of beautiful subjects against contrasting environments, often using unexpected props and locations to evoke intrigue and contemplation from the viewer.

I started as a photographer’s assistant at a local studio, then signed with IMG Models Worldwide as a photographer in High School! More recently, I’ve been producing commercial work for brands such as Scentbird, Immunocologie, and SOM Sleep.

Apart from photography, I have a B.S. in Arts, Technology, and the Business of Innovation from USC’s Iovine and Young Academy. My professional journey includes co-founding Handle Delivery, a college delivery startup where I led marketing operations. I worked as a Design Strategist at Mattel, Inc., specifically tasked with creating innovative concepts for their Hot Wheels line.

When I’m not behind the lens, I enjoy reading, painting, and golfing.

Awards

Winner in Photography - National YoungArts Foundation, 2019

Winner in Photography - “Breaking Traditions”, The San Diego Museum of Art, 2019

Winner in Photography - San Diego Youth Art Month, 2019

Publications

USC Iovine and Young Academy, FRESH Encounters: Mia McCarthy

The Argonaut, Unfiltered Gaze

Encinitas Living, December 2019 Student Spotlight

Exhibitions

Oceanside Museum of Art, 2019 Youth Congressional Art Competition

Bldg Bridges Art Exchange, 2019 National YoungArts Foundation

The San Diego Museum of Art, YoungArt 2019 “Breaking Traditions”

Rose Gallery, Youth Art Month 2019