Meet Kristel Elizabeth Gomez | Cinematographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kristel Elizabeth Gomez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kristel Elizabeth, what role has risk played in your life or career?
My whole life and career has been cultivated through a series of risks. My path has not always been as calculated as I would’ve liked but has given me valuable life experiences. Im someone who acts on impulse and excitement, diving head first without worrying about the outcome. Thankfully, this has led me to where I am right now. I try to live by the idea that “regret of not doing anything is worse than the feeling of failing at something”.

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.
Cinematography is challenging and being a female in a primarily male dominated field adds to the difficulty. The biggest challenge I face is not giving into insecurities and keeping my confidence going into new projects. I’m 5’2, I am a very petite person. I’ve had to build a strong inner voice to be a confident leader and teammate. It’s been a process. My goal is to feel secure leading as a camera department head and I want my team to have that same confidence and security in me. I thrive working in a group environment so the process has been overall enjoyable. I feel that my small stature doubles as a strength, it sets me apart. It’s not very often you see a person carrying around a camera nearly half their weight. I do it for the love of visual storytelling, my very large cameras are my medium.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I love that LA is a melting pot of different cultures and ethnicities. There is everything to do and see here. When I have friends or family come visit I like to take them to some of my favorite spots. I feel the best way to get to experience a place is through food. The first stop would be Bistro Nas, a Chinese restaurant a little outside of the city. It’s one of the best dining experiences I’ve ever had, they serve traditional Manchurian dishes that are not easy to find in the US. The arts district is also a place I frequent. There are so many amazing galleries, food options, and shops in that area. Last but not least, The Academy Award Museum, because motion pictures are awesome.

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?
There are so many people to credit, the most impactful being my parents. They are loving, supportive, and trusting. They never stopped me from making my own choices, even when they didn’t fully understand. When I found myself doubting myself they remained positive and I will forever be grateful for that. My sister, Janet, has played a huge roll. She has doubled as a co-worker and role model for me. We moved to Los Angeles almost 14 years ago and have watched each other grow in our respective fields and as people. Im also very lucky to have a big support group of friends and extended family as mentors and cheerleaders.

Website: https://www.kristelegomez.com/

Instagram: @kristel_elizabeth

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristel-elizabeth-gomez-b83a0826/

Other: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3894000/