Meet Jesica Mesa | Photographer

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

Hi Jesica, is there something you can share with us that those outside of the industry might not be aware of?
Many think that with a click of a button your photo is complete and ready for delivery. To a photographer, the process is all about the labor of love to make the final product. As a photographer we see the end product and go through an elaborate process to acheive the style and beauty of your final photograph. There is an element of artistry that goes into what the final product is. Photographers want you to have a piece of art that you will treasure for the rest of your life.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Well, I grew up in a small tourist town that changed throughout my entire life. I was a preschool teacher about to be a mom for the first time, and I had a love for photography but still only knew a few things about the business. When my daughter turned one I really wanted to take the venture into this business and stay at home with my daughter but have something that was for me. Now, living in a small town at the tip of the United States has its ups and downs. There are alot of creatives here. The market was definetly saturated, but as I was taught, the market may be saturated but it still doesn’t have YOU. My style is my own and I stand by that style. There may be pther photographers in the area but they have there own style and anyone coming to the Keys and gets there photos taken professionally has there pick out of an amazing group of people, that sees themselves as a community instead of competition. I love getting caught up in the romance of a story. Everyone’s story is a romantic one, and they should have a moment of getting caught up in it.

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.
Key West is filled with historical significance and kitchie atmosphere. We would have to take in a sunrise at Smathers Beach with coffee from Sandy’s or Cuban Coffee Queen. A trip to Key West would not be complete without brunch at either Key Plaza Creperie or Blue Heaven. I would book us a massage at Flow Spa, where stress melts away and the staff are amazing. A day of history museams would be the next stop with the Key West Lighthouse and Ernest Hemingway house. With so many places to eat on Duval Street I like to journey off the beaten path and head into the town for some really great dinner options. Mangia Mangia is my favorite with there homemade pasta and great wine. Roostica in Stock Island, famous for the brick oven pizza. Hog Fish in stock island, with fresh fish and great back country atmosphere. Last but not least, a visit to the Butterfly Garden would make the trip perfect.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are so many wonderful people that have inspired me throughout this journey. My mentor Ailea Lopez, encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone a really expand my business. She is a Puerto Rico based photographer and has been workin it all on her own. She was the one that taught me to be bold and put myself out there.

Website: jesicanmesaphotography.mypixieset.com

Instagram: @jesicanmesaphotography

Facebook: Jesica N Mesa Photography

Yelp: JesicaN Mesa Photography

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