Meet Jessica Lynn Diaz

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Lynn Diaz.

Jessica Lynn, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I am a young filmmaker, actress, and photographer of African American & Dominican descent currently living in Los Angeles. I’m originally from Cali, but I grew up in South Florida where I went to high school and college. Since a young age, I have always been a performer, dancer, storyteller. I used to create movies with my older sister when we were kids and we were always coming up with a new performance to show our family. Being creative is something I’ve always enjoyed!

After I graduated from Florida State, I began to work at an ad agency and, although it was a “cool” corporate job, I didn’t feel like I could be my true creative self. Something was missing! I was also stuck in an unhealthy abusive relationship of six years and I knew God had something more for me. I spent a lot of nights scared and crying because I just didn’t know how to change my situation. One morning, I felt like God woke me up and told me “no more!” I was able to break free of that relationship and then a month later I moved back to California where my love for creating and performing was ignited once again!

I have been studying acting for the past several years and I have fortunately have been blessed to book acting roles in a few commercials and a couple of short films.

I’ve also been doing a lot of photography! My love for photography has also been there since I was young. I was always the kid with a camera taking photos of everything and everyone, capturing moments with friends, family, and my surroundings. It’s definitely a therapeutic outlet for me.

I do however, believe my biggest love in the creative world is for directing! There is something so beautiful about being able to grabs someone’s attention through an artistic visual medium. I’ve had a natural writing skill set that I’ve had since I was young, which my mom reminded me about, so I’ve been able to write & direct several short films over the past couple years. I really enjoy the process. From pre-production to being on set to putting it all together in post, it’s such a dope feeling to see your creative mind in physical form. I intend to continue to create films and visuals with underlying messages that will spark conversations and shed light on difficult subjects but I will always enjoy making people laugh and feel good.

Currently, I have a film titled “You’re So Beautiful” that touches on the signs and patterns of domestic violence in what seems to be such a great relationship. That film has been blessed enough to be screened in a few festivals this year and I just wrote, acted, and directed in a comedic short titled “Squad” that could easily be adapted into a series.

I am just always looking to create more, tell stories that can help people, and work with creatives, especially my strong & beautiful women who are in film! Let’s change the stigma!

Has it been a smooth road?
The road is never smooth, this is LA, potholes on deck, hah, so yes, there has definitely been challenges!

As an actress you have to be okay with rejection. There are a lot of “nos” but those just bring you closer to your yes. I’m a firm believer in what’s for me, is for me. No need to stress on rejection, God is preparing the perfect role for you, stay patient, stay humble, and keep on studying!

As a filmmaker, challenges are inevitable. Every independent filmmaker will most likely agree that the budget is usually the most difficult thing to work out. Once you can figure out that aspect, you figure out your production team and cast then the fun begins! I will always say this, PRE-PRODUCTION is the most important thing!!! Being well prepared makes for a lot easier shoot days and post.

There’s outside challenges that sometimes occur, like unexpected family emergencies, car problems, relationships, monetary struggles, but when you really want it, you fight through it all, stay focused (even if you have to delay it), and still get it done. DO NOT GIVE UP, SOMEONE IS WAITING TO SEE YOUR WORK!

We’d love to hear more about your work and what you are currently focused on. What else should we know?
As a director, writer, actress my work can be found online on youtube and Instagram. I am always ready to work with new talent so don’t ever hesitate to reach out! @jessicalynndiaz

My photography can be found on Instagram @jldcreates.

I really enjoy working with people of all different backgrounds, races, genders, economic statuses, because we are all equal and we should see more of that represented when we watch movies, tv, commercials, etc.

Is our city a good place to do what you do?
I can’t think of a better place than LA/Hollywood for my creativity. There is endless amounts of resources, locations, and people who are always ready to work with you. Ask, and you shall receive, communication is key!

If someone says no, don’t let it get to you, just move on to the next!

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: jessicalynndiaz
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOUJglfuOiW-X7snvOhLJBg

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