We recently connected with Gabrielle Ortiz and have shared our conversation below.
Gabrielle , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?
One of my most meaningful projects was a photoset I did inspired by one of my good friends, CJ Martires. CJ has always been in my life since I was born and I genuinely think she is one of the strongest people I know. You know those people who will take anything bad that has come their way and somehow still hold their head up high? That was CJ to me. She is someone who I’ve grown up with and I have seen her grown up to be such a resilient and inspiring woman. I had based a photoset off of her, where she was my model and we shot with these beautiful flowers to show how she was constantly blooming and growing.

Gabrielle , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
Hi friends!
My name is Gabrielle Ortiz and I am a portrait photographer, based in San Diego. I first started in my hometown, Sacramento, back in 20180 and have been doing it as hobby since then. I specialize in portraits mostly — usually working with couples, models, etc. — but my favorite projects to do is anything creative, anything with a story behind it. It doesn’t matter if you have model experience or if you don’t like being in front of the camera at all, I will always do my best to create a safe and fun environment that helps people come out of their shell. If you hate taking photos, I will help be more comfortable in your skin and make it seem like just friends hanging out — rather than something so formal. I am definitely the most proud of my creative photoshoots and how far I have come. When I first started, I was just a high-schooler who liked taking photos, but I have learned so much since then. The main things I want potential clients to know is that I am open to shooting with anyone and everyone. I love meeting new people and listening to others creatives decisions!
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
I think the most rewarding aspect of being a creative is seeing people fall in love with themselves through your work. I love when people who aren’t use to being in front of a camera, see my photos and it revives a sort of confidence in them. I love that feeling that I can inspire confidence through my photos and persuade people to be more confident in their skin. The best thing about photography is having those special moments captured and immortalized forever.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?
Definitely, joining clubs on my college campus. As a SDSU student, there are so many creative clubs on campus that have introduced me to so many other creatives and genuinely have opened up tons of opportunities for me. I have been also just been more inspired to go out and create more once I am around other creatives since we are constantly inspiring people.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: instagram.com/gabriellesfilms/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@GabbyOrtiz
Image Credits
Gabrielle Ortiz

