Life & Work with Jizelle Gutierrez of Los Angeles, CA

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jizelle Gutierrez

Hi Jizelle, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Growing up in Orange County, I was constantly surrounded by so many creative influences in art and music. I always found new ways to express myself through playing instruments, drawing, and photography. My passion for making videos started in high school when I started a YouTube channel. I taught myself how to edit and shoot videos through vlogging with my friends and sharing makeup and styling tips. This led to a deep appreciation for filmmaking and storytelling. After high school, I decided to pursue film and move to New York City to attend Pace University.

Throughout my college years, I gained valuable experience in social media during my internships at companies like Honey, NBCUniversal, and Disney, as well as freelance video work with Kat Studio. I quickly learned the fast paced cycles of the music industry as I started working with major artists under Republic Records, RCA Records, and Epic Records.

After I graduated with my Bachelors, I moved back home to Orange County. I got a job at Disney Parks as a Video Producer on the Digital Content team. It was a dream bucket list job as I grew up going to Disneyland all the time and got to see the parks in a completely new light. Despite fulfilling this childhood dream of working at Disney, I still felt drawn to the music industry.

Once my contract with Disney ended, I started looking for a full time job. Despite facing challenges during the industry strikes, I persevered after hundreds of job rejections. After a long period of uncertainty and doubting myself, I secured a position at Warner Records as a Digital Project Manager/Video Producer.

My time at Warner Records allowed me to delve deeper into the creative process, working closely with artists and helping make their visions come to life. This experience solidified my desire to continue my career in music. Shortly after my contract at Warner Records, I received an offer for the Associate Manager, Digital Media Design position at Capitol Records. As I embark on this exciting new chapter, I am so excited to continue growing as a creative and working with new artists.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It hasn’t been easy navigating such a white male-dominated industry as a first-generation Asian American woman. From the challenges of college during the pandemic to juggling multiple internships and jobs, I knew I had to persevere.

Even after a year of unemployment, countless rejections, and seemingly endless interviews, I refused to give up. I let go of my doubts and trusted that the universe had a plan. And now, I’m living my dream, working with artists I admire and doing what I love.

The music industry is very demanding, but my passion for music and my incredible support system move me forward. No matter the challenges, I know I can make it through if I just believe in myself.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a video producer, photographer, and creative director. I specialize in creating short form video content, shooting film photography, and collaborating with artists to help make their visions come to life. I’m most known for my film photography work of Olivia Rodrigo on the Sour Tour and Guts World Tour.

I am most proud of my video editing work with Ariana Grande. I’ve been a fan of her music ever since she released her first song. From attending the Dangerous Woman Tour to editing behind-the-scenes videos and TikToks for her new singles and makeup line, r.e.m. beauty, it has been the highlight of my career. Working with Ariana and her team has been an absolute dream.

What sets me apart from others in my industry is that I truly am a fangirl to my core. I truly believe that my passion and love for music has given me the ability to pour so much passion into my work. I know what fans want and how to draw fans’ attention since I am a fan first and foremost and creative second.

Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
My advice to those starting out is to embrace all and any opportunities, surround yourself with inspiring artists, and prioritize kindness.

When I was in college, I never imagined having a career in music. But by being open to new experiences, I discovered my passion and found my place in the industry.

Building a community of talented female creatives is incredibly important to me. Supporting each other’s art and fostering genuine connections is vital for growth and inspiration.

I believe in the power of kindness. In this small industry, a good reputation is everything. By going into every circumstance respect and reliability, you’ll build lasting relationships and pave the way for success.

Don’t give up on your dreams!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.jizellemaia.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jizellemaia/