Meet Esme Jimenez | Freelance Photographer

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

Hi Esme, can you share the most important lesson you’ve learned over the course of your career?
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the value in transparency. Between clients/colleagues it is important to establish a strong sense of communication to make sure the project flows from start to finish. It reduces the chances of any hiccups in pre/post production. It also assures that all parties are fully aware of what to expect from each other. Lastly, it builds a bond of trust!

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.
As simple as it sounds, my introduction to photography was a financial decision. My family couldn’t always afford a photographer so we invested in a camera. I would practice at family gatherings and through word of mouth, I would get asked to shoot a birthday party here and there. The best part of this experience was being able to document intimate and wholesome moments. I felt really important to be the one to capture a core memory in someone’s life. Slowly, I’ve been dabbling into concert photography and video.

I wouldn’t say I am a professional, but I have grown immensely. I’ve had to develop better communication, organization and financial skills to keep me going. Photography is not my main source of income so there is definitely a lot of delegating to be done from time to time. I have a great team of supporters who actively guide me, mentor me and encourage me to keep going.

The reason I began shooting was to provide a service to folks who couldn’t afford it. We’re in digital era where you can take photos though anything but I do think there is a beauty as a photographer who not only snaps a picture but also provides a service and leaves the client feeling good. I’ve helped models jumpstart their careers and even friends grow out their shells and that is very fulfilling to me.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
We’ll it doesn’t help that my best friend lives 2 doors down haha. But if we were to spend a week together, we’d definitely charge our camera’s up and go location scouting! I live in park slope but sunset park is a big component of my upbringing. We’d definitely explore the coffee shops in the morning. My favorite go to right now is Rose Petals on 17th and 5th ave Brooklyn. Hispanic/Family owned cafe has the best lavender latte’s to date. After that, we’d probably head on over to Bay Ridge and hit up some middle eastern spots. For sight seeing, I definitely recommend Bush Terminal Park that has the best sunset’s view from the water. We’d definitely hit up a few bars in town, and catch a movie at alpines. To end the week, we’d spend our Sunday at Plaza Tonatiuh were you can find the best quesdillas, aguas frescas, y munchies from local vendors.

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?
Wow, I have a list of people who deserve to be thanked for! I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for Key Lenz, (Kiara Terrero) who I met last summer. We clicked off so well and have now been on several projects let alone travelled together! I came across you guys because of her! Then, my homegirl France. Someone who has been super patient/solid in building a beautiful bond that I would never trade. Huge thanks to my family 27 collective who have never doubted my potential and lastly, my family. My mom, siblings, nieces. Any one who was willing to bring my crazy ideas to life really haha.

Website: encyphernyc.myportfolio.com

Instagram: @encyphernyc

Twitter: @encyphernyc

Youtube: @encyphernyc

Image Credits
Denys G., Francelee M., S.G, Riks