Conversations with Jessica Castro

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Castro.

Hi Jessica, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Art has always been part of my life. When I traveled to South America as a junior in high school, I got into the idea of becoming a photographer. I studied at the University of Central Florida, where I received a Bachelor of Science in Photography. During my time in college, I was working for local magazines, getting paid tests with local model agencies and small boutique clients. I moved to LA in 2013 from Atlanta. The beginning of my career in LA was interning and hustling with event & portrait work. I tested with a lot of agency models to get my book to fit the LA market. Collaborated with several online and print magazines. After my internship, I would get hired to do BTS videos on big editorial sets. Most of my work is word of mouth after being out here for almost ten years. Working with several lifestyle brands, artists, publicists and small business owners.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
There’s definitely been obstacles and challenges throughout the years. You have to find your way with pricing and getting paid fairly, make sure you have good legal contracts and sometimes it takes learning some of those things the hard way. Your journey and dreams might change along the way. I moved to LA with big dreams to work for the biggest brands and magazines but things shifted for me once I had worked with some of them and realized I was getting appreciated more through my other work and word of mouth. I’ve personally learned that I enjoy working with artists, individuals and businesses that are smaller or developing and helping with their growth.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m an editorial and commercial photographer specializing in fashion, celebrity and lifestyle. I build strong sincere relationships with my clients working closely to create clean modern images that portray their brands authentically. My style is true to color and vibrant inspired by individuality. Working with businesses and talents from all levels major or small, developing fresh lively content. People connect with me for my personality, I’m passionate about the work I do and very grateful for the people I get to create it with.

We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
Oh man, I’m a pretty open book. Once you meet me you get to know what my life is about. If I didn’t do photography, I would probably be doing something with food. I’m Colombian and Uruguayan, Cooking is pure joy and part of my culture! I have a garden I grow food and eat from and it’s very rewarding. This past year I’ve taken on weight lifting with my partner. We also work on our cars together ( 07 VW Rabbit & 97 Honda Prelude SH) . I’ve had to change my tire alone on the 10 before that was an experience after a long day of back to back sessions in the city.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.jessicacastrophotography.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/heyjesshi
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jessicacastrophotography/

Image Credits
Jessica Castro Photography