Meet Gerica Preston | Filmmaker & Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Gerica Preston and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Gerica, why did you pursue a creative career?
I’m a former foster youth and growing up I was primarily raised by my aunt and uncle, Val and Ted, in Pomona, California. The arts have always been my passion. Creative expression was an outlet for all my big feelings. I was that kid jumping into everything: Girl Scouts, gymnastics, tap dance, children’s choir, talent shows, oratorical contests. I was goofy, creative, smart, independent — and never afraid to try something new. I was always reading books! Can we give it up for Pizza Hut and that Book It program! Poetry was always my favorite. I remember my uncle telling us vivid bedtime stories about growing up in Alabama and my Auntie with all the detailed memories of family history — I learned early on that there’s power in narrative. In my experience growing up storytelling wasn’t just entertainment — it was how identity was passed down and how history was preserved.
When I moved back to Los Angeles, that move brought a lot of excitement but also unexpected hardship with the loss of my mother during high school, that changed me and it alienated me. Filmmaking became more than just an outlet — it became a way of reclaiming my voice and shaping my identity. The moment I picked up a camera at A Place Called Home, something clicked. Through producing, filming, and editing, I want to inspire people with authentic storytelling.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art is storytelling from my perspective, through my lens. I believe there’s power in capturing real moments. My experiences growing up as a foster youth gave me a unique perspective on resilience, survival, and the beauty of community. That perspective is what sets me apart. I don’t just shoot video or take pictures; I capture moments that reflect truth and honor lived experiences.
I’m most proud of the way I’ve been able to take the challenges of my upbringing and turn them into fuel for my creative work. Turning my pain into passion and it wasn’t easy. It took a lot of determination and faith. There were many times I questioned myself and if my dreams were too big for my reality. But every time I doubted, I reminded myself of the village that poured into me, the mentors that believed in me, and the faith that I could create something meaningful. I learned to lean into my creativity as a form of expression and healing. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned along the way is that your story is your power! (shout out to Hoolie!) The parts of your journey that are hardest to speak about are often the most impactful when you do.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
We’re going to somebody’s concert, probably 2-3 shows and we’re hitting the beach, if the weather permits, because I’m good for a smore’s/bonfire situation.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Finding my self-identity and transitioning into adulthood was challenging to say the least. But I’m still here and thriving and I owe that to my village.
My family, especially my big sister Geresa Preston-Reynolds! My social worker, Rysha Jones. My mentors, Stewart Young, Monique Edwards, Scott Culbertson, Mark Schwartz, Derrion Wyatt, Juliana Wells, and Tony LoRe. Friends like Stevevonna, Allisha and Jhamana. They believed in my ambition and gave me more than just guidance. They taught me real-life skills, helped me find my way in new places, apply to college and literally get to college (340mi away), and feel confident in achieving my big dreams. They helped me face challenges head-on, understand hard life lessons, and still keep pushing. They recognized my interest in storytelling and made sure I had the space to explore it. Whether it was encouraging me to pick up a camera, helping me access the right resources, or simply listening to my ideas, they cultivated that passion until it became something real. Their support gave me the foundation I needed to step into my own story — to pick up a camera, capture real moments, and tell authentic stories. What I’m building now, I hope will honor the impact they’ve had on my life, and inspire others like they inspired me. They showed me what it means to have someone in your corner, and for that, I’m forever grateful.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pdaparade

Image Credits
Gerica Preston