Meet jason rivera | photographer

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

Hi jason, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Over the past six years, embracing risk in my photography journey has been transformative for my career’s trajectory. I owe this mindset to my parents, who made the boldest sacrifices during my upbringing. They instilled in me the value of relentless dedication, illustrating that hard work yields rewards and seizing opportunities is paramount. Little did I envision myself as a photographer, let alone shooting for esteemed fashion brands like Harper’s Bazaar and Vogue so early in my career. My inclination toward fashion photography didn’t stem from a predefined interest but rather from my admiration for the eccentricities inherent in the industry.

An indelible moment in my career unfolded amidst the pandemic when I was presented with an opportunity to collaborate with two jewelry companies. One offered substantial pay but relinquished my ownership of the captured images. Conversely, the other allowed creative freedom despite lower compensation. Opting for the latter, I realized that autonomy over my work empowered me to collaborate more freely as a freelance photographer, despite the financial uncertainties of that period.

Amid the pandemic-induced financial concerns, I embraced photography as an enduring art form, one that perpetually sustains when approached with unwavering persistence. This mindset allowed me to navigate through uncertainties, understanding that artistry and dedication yield sustenance beyond mere monetary gains.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
In my artistic journey, I embrace a fluid approach, weaving intricate yet effortlessly simple lighting techniques to unveil the intimate essence of my subjects. Through meaningful communication, I guide them into poses that evoke memories reminiscent of the captivating beauty found in manga panels. My aim is to shatter conventional ideals of beauty by capturing the confidence and personal allure of anyone willing to reveal their inner radiance.

Surprisingly, my path to a professional career was not without its challenges. However, armed with determination and knowledge, I vaulted over these obstacles. I owe a debt of gratitude to an exceptional support network of friends who not only listened but also challenged me during moments when my ego clouded my judgment. My journey to professionalism is a narrative rooted in the values of friendship, effective communication, and the realization that it’s through understanding others that I’ve attained the heights I now occupy.

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.
n Los Angeles, my go-to spots are as diverse as the city itself. When craving the rhythm of live music, Black Rabbit Rose is my haven. For a culinary delight, nothing beats the delectable handrolls at Kazunori. And when the spirit of adventure hits, I hop on my bicycle to explore the mesmerizing bike trails scattered across the vast expanse of Los Angeles County.

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?
A heartfelt acknowledgment is due to the incredible individuals who’ve been part of my fashion shoots. From talented fashion stylists and makeup artists to skilled hair stylists, production assistants, and creative directors, each one has contributed immense vibrancy to my images. Listing each by name would create an encyclopedia-length roster!

Early on, I recognized the paramount importance of having a dedicated team in the realm of photography. A testament to the power of teamwork was evident in my first publication in Vogue. During that time, I was guiding a group of seven interns eager to learn. I shared with them the vision of creating a fashion editorial for Vogue, and within that week, our editorial was accepted. This success vividly showcased the potency of collective effort and teamwork, underscoring the impact a cohesive team can make.

Website: jayrivphoto.com

Instagram: @jayrivphoto

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Jayrivphoto

Image Credits
me