Today we’d like to introduce you to Jenna Alcala.
Hi Jenna, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I grew up in the countryside of Napa Valley, where I spent my afternoons chasing frogs and riding horses. I learned to love nature and being outside early in life.
College took me to Hawaii, where I studied International Business and Marketing (between beach sessions!). But during those studies, something wonderful happened – I fell head over heels for photography.
Things got really interesting when I decided to move to San Francisco after college. The city’s vibrant atmosphere introduced me to a community of fellow creatives that were welcoming and inspiring. I got my start in production, landing a lucky break working alongside one of the world’s top photographers. He was a bit crazy but undeniably brilliant, and I soaked up every aspect of the business at warp speed. After a few years of valuable experience, I took a leap of faith and founded my own production company, Applebox. We created exceptional work, and I continued to learn every aspect of the process – estimating, reps, running sets, lighting, managing crews, servicing clients, and turning art direction into tangible photographs.
All the while, I tirelessly honed my own style and built a portfolio through countless test shoots. And when the time felt right, I made the daring leap from producer to photographer. It was a scary transition, but I’ve never once regretted it.
Over the past decade, I’ve been incredibly fortunate to collaborate with clients I’ve long admired. It’s a reality that continues to amaze me, and I’m grateful every day for the opportunity to do what I love.
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?
No, of course not! But truly, I wouldn’t have it any other way. It’s been an amazing ride.
My first challenge was to figure out who I truly am as a photographer and how I wanted to express myself through my work. In the early days, I experimented with various subjects and styles, and it took years of exploration to find what truly inspired me and what my style looked like.
Then, there was a big hurdle after successfully running my production company for over five years. I had built a solid reputation as a producer and was making waves in that field. However, my heart was set on becoming a photographer. So, at the peak of my company’s success, I made the tough call to shut it down. I knew that if I didn’t make that move then the transition might never happen. Looking back, it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
One of my most significant ongoing challenges is finding a healthy work-life balance. The nature of a creative career can blur the lines between personal and professional life. Striking that balance requires conscious effort and setting boundaries. I hesitate to call these “challenges” because they were all necessary parts of my journey, shaping me and helping me grow.
I adore being a photographer so much that I even enjoy the problems that come with it. 😉
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I specialize in lifestyle, beauty, and travel photography and am known for my vibrant, sun-soaked images that capture the essence of dreamy West Coast living. My portfolio spans a wide range of clients, from cosmetics and residential developments to apparel, travel and tourism.
What truly sets me apart is my profound understanding of the creative process from top to bottom. Having worked behind the scenes, I’ve immersed myself in every facet of production, allowing me to anticipate pivotal moments and decipher the nuanced requirements of both agencies and clients. This results in a unique blend of sophistication and playfulness that precisely aligns with the artistic aspirations and practical needs of agencies and clients alike.
I’m fortunate to collaborate with a talented team of creative professionals, from lighting technicians to wardrobe experts. Their dedication and creativity are truly inspiring. I’m a firm believer in treating everyone with kindness and fairness, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
We work hard, but we also make room for fun, and I think this reflects vividly in the lighthearted, playful images we create.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
Obviously, I love taking photos. Getting a beautiful photo is such a rush.
Put me by the ocean or a tranquil lake, and I’m in my element.
I love to geek out over space and stars.
Sprinkle in some sushi, cheese or chocolate and I likely will be in a great mood.
Ultimately, the moments I treasure most involve raising my kids and savoring quality family time. It’s in these simple, everyday moments that I discover immense purpose and clarity (and a hint of craziness!).
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.jennaalcala.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennaalcala/
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/jenna-alcala-14988a10
Image Credits
Jenna Alcala Photography
