JADU – I AM JOHANNES

Jadu_BTS__AMJOHANNES;MarieZechiel_MovementDirector

Client
Photographer
Movement Director

JADU

Marie Zechiel played a crucial role as the Movement Director for singer JADU in a project that required transforming JADU s inexperience into a powerful and confident presence. The project, conceptualized and photographed by I AM JOHANNES, was inspired by the iconic work of Helmut Newton, known for his portrayals of strong, independent women. Despite JADU’s initial lack of experience, Marie’s expert guidance helped her embody this vision, creating a look that exuded strength and femininity. Marie worked closely with JADU to craft movements and postures that aligned with the project’s concept. Understanding that JADU was new to this kind of intense, stylized portrayal, Marie focused on coaching her through every movement. She provided JADU with the tools and confidence needed to project the desired image—one of a woman who is unapologetically strong and self-assured. Through Marie’s direction, JADU was able to transcend her inexperience, presenting herself as a figure of power and grace. The collaboration was not just about achieving the right aesthetic; it was about transforming JADU’s stage presence. Marie’s approach was holistic, ensuring that every gesture, pose, and movement conveyed the intended narrative. This transformation was key to the success of the shoot, as it allowed JADU to embody the fierce, feminine energy that the concept demanded.
Marie Zechiel s role went beyond movement direction; she was a mentor, helping JADU tap into a part of herself that she had not yet explored. By drawing inspiration from Helmut Newton’s portrayal of women, Marie crafted a visual narrative that was both empowering and evocative. The result was a series of images where JADU, guided by Marie s expertise,

As a movement director Marie Zechiel researches, develops and instructs sophisticated movement and body languages for a project aiming to create a suitable and unique physical narrative that raises production quality and authenticity.
In exchange with the director and team she proposes a motion vocabulary and choreography which fits best to the project’s vision, before she develops specific training methods and teaches all necessary skills to the performers (e.g. actors, singers, dancers, models, extras).
Especially on set with the production Marie Zechiel is a valuable motion supervisor to translate last-minute improvements as a movement director. Her skill-set includes underwater movement, cross-gendered movements and chorus work as well as doing choreographies in different dance styles.
Her field of work is specialised in camera productions such as commercials, music videos, photo shootings but also fashion shows and gallery spaces and the movement mentoring for artists. As a Choreographer and Movement Director Marie Zechiel has been involved in many music videos, commercial shoots and fashion shows. Clients include: VOGUECalvin Klein, Longines, Heidi Klum, Rammstein, Herbert Grönemeyer, Mercedes Benz.

Read more about Marie Zechiel´s Movement Director work HERE.