Check Out Jen Christo’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jen Christo.

Hi Jen, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I can still remember sitting on my childhood bedroom floor surrounded by torn out magazine pages; fashion spreads, celebrity features, catalog clippings, and bits of phrases that I’d turn into collages. Those images felt like portals into another world, and I was fascinated by what might be happening behind the scenes of a photoshoot. Over time, that curiosity evolved into a more critical eye. I began to notice who was missing from those pages, and the lack of diversity and representation. It left an imprint that would later shape my work as a photographer.

After high school, I was gifted my first camera – a simple point and shoot – and carried it everywhere, photographing friends and fleeting everyday moments. In college, while learning film photography, I discovered this was more than a creative pursuit, it was my calling. My parents hoped I’d pursue a traditional path in the medical field, but after an internship in that space, I knew I needed to choose a direction that felt authentic to me. That decision led me to an MFA program, where I began to explore themes of identity and race through the lens of fashion and beauty photography.

Following graduation, my passion for commercial beauty photography truly came into focus. It felt like coming full circle, rooted in that same childlike wonder, but grounded in purpose. The industry still has a long way to go in terms of representation, but I’m proud to be a part of the ongoing conversation. Inclusivity and representation aren’t just important to me, they’re central to the collaborators and brands I choose to partner with.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
When I started, I didn’t have connections or resources in the industry – only persistence, curiosity, and belief in myself. It was daunting at first: figuring out how to build my portfolio, form relationships with agencies, and pitch myself to clients. I spent my weekdays working full time to support myself, and my weekends test shooting to gain experience and build my book. I reached out to hair/makeup artists, stylists, etc. on social media for collaborations, learning how to work with creative teams and expanding my network. I worked with small brands, trading images for merchandise to practice shooting to a brief. Building a career this way demanded countless hours, dedication, sacrifices, and a thick skin, but it has also been very rewarding.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m a creative specializing in beauty, skincare, and cosmetics photography. As an AAPI artist, diversity and representation are central to my work, and I choose to work with brands that prioritize inclusivity and authenticity. I’m most proud of my perseverance and continuing to pursue my vision even when the path was uncertain or challenging. What sets me apart is a commitment to representing a wider spectrum of beauty, while maintaining a polished style that feels both aspirational and accessible.

Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
What I love most is the energy of the creative community. Being surrounded by people who are passionate about their craft is inspiring. It fuels my own creativity and keeps me motivated. What’s even more incredible is the resilience of the LA community. Despite the fear and uncertainty caused by immigration raids and the harmful policies of the current administration, the community continues to support one another, speak out, and create spaces of solidarity and belonging.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.jenchristo.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jachristo