We recently connected with Xiomara Gonzalez and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Xiomara thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.

Life is all about taking risks. I firmly believe that if you’re not taking risks, then you won’t grow in any aspect.

Back in early 2022, when I was an esthetician, I realized I didn’t want to do that for the rest of my life, and I wouldn’t be fulfilled if I wasn’t able to tap into my creative side. As a child, I always knew that making money as an artist wouldn’t be easy, so I never allowed myself to get in tune with my creative side because I thought “What’s the point” and I always heard stories of how difficult it’d be; that put some fear in me as a young kid trying to figure out what I wanted to do when I got older.

Anyways, back in 2022, when I had that revelation, I kind of broke down because I was scared and honestly didn’t know what direction my life was headed as a 20 year old at the time, but I said “f it, why would I allow my fears to stop me from trying?” I remember talking to my mom and she was able to provide me with some reassurance and security that was needed at the time. She was really supportive of my decision, regardless of whether she was or wasn’t, I was still going to try, but it was nice knowing that she was going to be there for me regardless of what I decided to do.

From there, my late grandfather gave me more than a few of his film cameras, camcorders, VHS, and his Canon EOS 70D. From there, I gradually got to work.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I’ve always been creative, whether it be drawing, designing, creative directing, set design, upcycling, hair, makeup, photo, or video, but I didn’t start taking any of it seriously until mid 2023. I’ve made a ton of connections since then, so that played a huge role in gaining experience and certain opportunities from projects. Being able to utilize as many of my skills as possible for any type of project gives me a different type of fulfillment. it’s a constant reminder that I can do anything I put my mind to.

As of right now, I do film and digital photography along with video that’s typically recorded on a camcorder. I’d like to consistently implement my other skills like creative direction and set design for other artists. My roommates and I will sit at the kitchen table coming up with ideas for skits and music videos and it’s so fun envisioning our ideas and knowing they’ll be able to come to life in the near future. Making art to share with people gives me purpose

When I work with clients, sometimes I’ll style them as well if I have a specific vision, but I’m a visual type of person, so if I’m not styling, then you can expect me to send you a mood board and a document with every possible detail needed. I genuinely value the people who want to work with me, so I like to make sure we’re both on the same page about everything so there’s no room for error.

I’m currently in the process of producing a magazine called The Xi Collective, it’s been in the works since last year. I’ve faced many trials and tribulations, but I’m grateful because it taught me how to go after what exactly I want and not allow people to take advantage of me and my vision. Being a young woman in the photography industry (especially only shooting for a few years now) is not easy because some people refuse to take me seriously, and it feels like a slap in the face at times. I’m learning to get used to it and to go where I am welcomed as an artist. It’s really easy to want to give up when you feel like you don’t have a strong support system, and everyone around is doubting you.

To be in my 20 somethings and have people doubt me from time to time can be discouraging, but I use their negativity to fuel my passion for creating. I’m still learning a lot so I try to be as easy on myself as possible and to do what I can with the resources I currently have.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

I’d say it’s just seeing how far I can go with my photography and videography. Like said, I’d love to be creative and direct for other artists, and if I’m able to utilize my skills to help someone’s vision come to life, then I’ve done my job.

Can you open up about how you funded your business?

Honestly, I was very lucky to have a grandfather with a decent camera collection. That took a huge financial burden off of me in regards to having cameras to use, but when I first started out, it was always all about working a full time job to be able to afford my equipment. From time to time, I’d find myself frustrated with wanting to be a photographer because of how expensive it is, but I know all of the time, money, and energy I’ve put into my work will pay off and I will receive everything back x10.

Contact Info:

• Website: Xitookit.com
• Instagram: Xitookit
• Youtube: Xitookit