Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jason Rivera. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Jason, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. 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.
In my late 20s, I found myself trapped in a routine, craving a new way to create and express myself. So, I made a bold decision: I quit my job, left the country, and embarked on a journey to explore the world. Armed with a Sony camera, I traveled through Asia, Europe, Mexico, and parts of the United States, capturing moments that would forever change my perspective.
When I returned home, I had little savings left but a fresh outlook on life. I settled in West Hollywood with a roommate, determined to turn my passion into a profession. I printed business cards and hit the streets of Melrose Blvd, confidently promoting myself as a photographer, despite knowing I had much to learn.
Photography became my lifeline, a means of survival, as I took on one project after another. Within a few months, I started a business, focusing on e-commerce photography and events. Along the way, I experimented with various genres, eventually finding my true calling in portraiture, which led to fashion editorial and, ultimately, commercial photography.
The journey wasn’t easy—During the pandemic I had to sell all my cameras, move multiple times, and even lost connections with people I deeply cared about. But these experiences shaped me into the person I am today, someone who leads with friendship and kindness.
Looking back, I realize that I built a business by becoming more than just a service provider—I became a solution for those who truly needed me. The path wasn’t clearly defined, but I knew that if I remained consistent, the journey would lead to success.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
My name is Jason Rivera, a 32-year-old photographer born and raised in Los Angeles, CA. I specialize in editorial and commercial photography, working primarily with Leica SL2/3 cameras and a Leica M6 film camera. Beyond the technical aspects, my true passion lies in connecting with people and creating images that resonate on a deeper level. My focus has always been to live a life that inspires.
When I first started, I didn’t know anyone in the industry. Today, I’m fortunate to receive client referrals through word of mouth. Along the way, I’ve had the privilege of mentoring aspiring photographers, offering them opportunities and showing them that there’s enough room in this industry for everyone.
My work is rooted in tradition. In a world where much of photography feels copied and overly Photoshopped, often turning images into composites rather than true photographs, I aim for something different. My style is simple yet intimate—capturing people in their purest, most authentic form. It’s a vision that can’t be imitated because it involves sharing a moment with someone and revealing a version of themselves they never knew existed.
After reading this, no matter where you are in your creative journey, ask yourself: “If not now, when?”
Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?
For a non-creative person to understand my journey, it’s like having faith as your boss. I had to show up every day, even without the guarantee of immediate rewards, trusting that the effort would pay off in the long run. And when you do achieve a win, its true impact on your business might not be visible until years later. It’s a process of continually refining your product, knowing that each day brings a new version closer to success.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
My greatest reward comes from watching my interns grow into the versions of themselves they’ve always wanted to be. Seeing a timid, insecure person transform into a confident asset for any creative project is incredibly fulfilling. I don’t have all the answers, so I lead by example.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://jayrivphoto.com
- Instagram: @jayrivphoto
- Facebook: @jayrivphoto
- Youtube: @jayrivphoto
Image Credits
cover image: Alex Ap @zlexi