Meet Jacob Sierra | Fashion Photographer

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

Hi Jacob, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Starting my own photography business was a natural evolution of my journey as a fashion editorial photographer. At 22 years old and with seven years of experience behind my lens, I felt a strong calling to take control of my destiny and forge my own path in the fashion industry.

Like capturing the essence of a model’s personality in a single shot, I wanted to capture the essence of my independence and passion for photography through entrepreneurship. Working for myself offered the ultimate creative freedom, allowing me to curate and direct fashion shoots in a way that truly expresses my unique style and vision.

Just as every fashion editorial image demands meticulous attention to detail and careful composition, I carefully planned my business strategy. I considered my target audience, branding, and how to position myself in the market as distinct and compelling.

Being 22 years old, I knew that starting my business at a relatively young age might come with challenges, but I saw it as an opportunity to infuse fresh new ideas and innovative approaches into the photography landscape. My passion for the craft fueled my determination to create remarkable images and a brand that would stand out from the competition.

Moreover, taking charge of my schedule and workflow was crucial to maintaining the work-life balance essential for a long-lasting and fulfilling career. Similar to orchestrating a well-coordinated fashion shoot, I aimed to organize my time efficiently, ensuring I had ample opportunities for personal growth and leisure while dedicating myself wholeheartedly to my photographic endeavors.

Ultimately, my thought process behind starting my own fashion editorial photography business was about embracing my passion, embracing my experiences, and using my creative vision to craft a thriving and rewarding career that aligns with my love for photography and allows me to make a mark in the world.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art as a fashion editorial photographer revolves around the seamless fusion of fashion, landscape, color, and dynamic posing. I find immense joy in capturing the harmony between my models and the surrounding environment, creating visually captivating images that tell stories of boldness, adventure, and style.

What sets me apart from others in the field is my distinct approach to incorporating landscapes into fashion photography. By utilizing wide-angle lenses, I can emphasize the grandeur of the natural world while ensuring my models remain central to the composition. This technique allows me to create striking visuals that evoke a sense of wonder and showcase both the beauty of the clothing and the diversity of our planet.

Color plays a crucial role in my work, and I take great care to pair the hues of my models’ attire with the textures and colors found in the landscapes. This thoughtful color coordination elevates the storytelling aspect of my imagery and draws attention to the seamless integration of fashion and nature.

Posing is another vital aspect of my art. I believe that dynamic and confident poses are essential to conveying the spirit of adventure and individuality. My models are not just subjects but co-collaborators in the creative process, and together, we craft images that exude energy and charisma.

Getting to where I am today professionally has been a rewarding yet challenging journey. It wasn’t always easy to carve a niche in the fashion photography industry. Overcoming the challenges involved persistence, self-belief, and continuously pushing my creative boundaries.

The key lesson I’ve learned along the way is that success doesn’t happen overnight. It requires consistent dedication, learning from both successes and failures, and maintaining an unwavering passion for one’s craft.

As for my brand and story, I want the world to know that my photography is more than just beautiful images. It’s about celebrating the spirit of adventure, pushing boundaries, and breaking away from conventional norms. Each photograph is a testament to the beauty of the world we inhabit and a reminder to embrace the journey of self-discovery and creativity.

My ultimate goal is to inspire others to see fashion and the world through a fresh lens, to appreciate the artistry in nature, and to express their individuality fearlessly. By showcasing the synergy between fashion and landscapes, I hope to contribute to a world where art, style, and nature intertwine harmoniously, leaving a positive impact on the fashion industry and our appreciation for the environment.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend was visiting the area for a week, I’d want to create an exciting itinerary that combines thrilling experiences, delicious food, and beautiful sights. Here’s a fun-filled plan for an unforgettable trip:

Day 1: Arrival and Local Eats

Welcome them with a delicious meal at Huey Magoo’s, one of my favorite spots, to introduce them to the local flavor.

Day 2: Universal

Start the day with an adrenaline rush by visiting Universals theme park

Day 3: Explore the City

Take a city tour, visiting iconic landmarks, art galleries, and local markets to get a taste of the vibrant culture and arts scene.

Day 4: Poolside Relaxation

Spend a relaxing day by the pool. Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and unwinding in a picturesque setting.

Day 5: Arcade Fun and Chino Hills Park

Head to a classic arcade with a variety of games and have some light-hearted competition.
Later, take a trip to Chino Hills Park in California. Explore its scenic trails and capture some memorable moments in nature.

Day 6: Beach Day and Water Activities

Hit the beach for a day of fun in the sun. Play beach volleyball, build sandcastles, and enjoy water activities like paddleboarding or jet skiing.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to dedicate my shoutout to two incredibly important pillars in my life who have been my unwavering support and inspiration on this journey. First and foremost, my amazing wife, Edalis, has been my biggest believer from day one. Her boundless faith in my talent and passion for photography has been a constant source of encouragement and motivation. Through the highs and lows of my career, she has stood by my side, offering unwavering love and support, and pushing me to reach for the stars.

I also want to extend a heartfelt thank you to my parents. They have been my rock, cheering me on from the very beginning. Their unconditional love, belief in my abilities, and encouragement have been instrumental in shaping me into the artist I am today. Their support and sacrifices have allowed me to follow my dreams and turn my passion for photography into a fulfilling career.

Website: jsierravisuals.com

Instagram: @sierra_visuals

Facebook: Jacob Sierra