Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Bethel.
Hi Jessica, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I encountered photography my freshman year of High School. I eventually was convinced by my teacher and colleague to take it seriously during my sophomore year of High School. I really began to fall in love with photography. I tossed around majoring in photography for the first two years of college, I was actually committed to being a Marine Biologist for the longest. Eventually, the call to photography really sat on my heart and to go full throttle into my art. Fast forward to receiving my Bachelors in Art and Art History with a concentration in photography in 2018. Shortly after graduating, I took the leap to move to LA during the pandemic because I felt leaving my hometown would change my trajectory and it did just that.
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?
I struggled to understand my purpose and what I wanted my work to say. I knew I loved people and sharing who I am through images, but what was my why? I think that was the hardest part to understand. What art do I want to put out into the world?
I also have dealt with negative self-talk and doubt. I still do from time to time. I’ve come to realize people don’t see what I see. Everyone can create the same image yet have a vastly different perspective on what it looks like.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a portrait and fine art photographer. I specialize primarily in film photography, I’ve been shooting film since High School but surprisingly didn’t like it. In 2015, I actually really fell in love with it after taking a course in college. I fell in love with the hands-on process and the whole process of development. I am most proud of how far I’ve come with my work and where I’m heading. I think what sets me apart from others is how raw my photos are. I feel like it speaks to my character and you can see how gentle I am with each subject.
What’s next?
I’ve lately been doing A LOT of writing and I’m most excited to perfect my writing in the new year. I’m also adding a bit of a layer to my art and experimenting with my craft. I also would like to put out a book and hopefully start selling prints this year. I’m looking forward to collaborating more and building community.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: https://www.jessicabethel.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/4eyedcameragirl/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/4eyedgirl_
