We were lucky to catch up with Jess Ferrara recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Jess, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
I’ve always had an interest in photography. My father had photos from the 1970s and 1980s that made me nostalgic for a bygone era. My mother exposed me to more contemporary photographers.
A few years ago, after having a major surgery that could have left me paralyzed, I decided to take a look at my life and figure out for myself what my purpose was and what I’ve always wanted to do but dared not do.
I packed my bags and moved back to Los Angeles. From there I bought my first professional camera and literally hit the streets running. I took photos of all walks of life, street photography, concert photography and people. I find people to be the most fascinating and complex subjects and I truly love capturing the moments in-between with a person. I want the raw, authentic essence to be recorded. I want a photo to pull at the viewer and elicit an emotional response. I want them to fill in their own stories about the photo. I want my art to make a person break free from the reality of their daily life and feel something that otherwise they would not have felt, even if just for a moment.
And that is how I discovered my purpose.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
The most exciting thing about my job as a freelance photographer is getting to create pictures through portraits, concerts and street photography. It’s fulfilling meeting new people and learning about my subjects, getting their stories and connecting with them. I love making someone feel comfortable in front of the camera and having them come out of the photo session with a new found perspective of themselves.
When other people resonate with the imagery it brings me a tremendous amount of joy. The conversations as a result of looking at my work always puts a smile on my face.
Lately I have been doing a regular photography gig on Tuesday nights at Yamashiros, in Los Angeles for Jay Davis Comedy Night.
I have been working on behind the scenes pictures for bands and other professionals.
Recently one of my photos was selected to be displayed at Permanent Records Roadhouse for the Night Scenes show.
I am continuing to explore other areas of photography and expanding my knowledge. One of my favorite ways of doing this is by talking to photography legends and other professionals, observing how they work and thier aesthetics.
I have started a series called “Bathroom Chronicles” which I hope to wrap up next year.
You can find my work on Instagram at @jessferraraphotography
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
I think the best advice I can give is to start somewhere, dedicate your time to learning, observing and developing your skill. Practice practice practice! Be intentional. I made it a point to talk to those that are professionals in their fields in order to expand my understanding and experience. I have found that most people are very easy to approach. Most importantly have fun with it!
Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?
When I feel overwhelmed I try to take a step back and ground myself. I like to find one thing about the problem or issue and work on that. Generally this then sorts out the situation. I am also not afraid to ask for help or advice from others.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @jessferraraphotography
Image Credits
Kaelan Barowsky
