We recently had the chance to connect with Jessica Solis and have shared our conversation below.
Jessica, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What is a normal day like for you right now?
My days look very different than they used to. I spent a couple of years teaching art, and while that chapter was rewarding, transitioning into full time photography has completely reshaped my routine.
Now, I like to start my mornings with a walk. After that, I’ll usually dive into emails, editing, and planning sessions for upcoming shoots. At some point during the day I’ll try to get up and go to the gym to lift. The rest of my night is spent hanging out with my two cats and my fiancé.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Jessica, and I’m a full time photographer based in North Texas. I’ve been behind the camera for about six years, but this past year has been my first time doing it full time. Before that, I was in college and then spent two years teaching art, which I loved, but I eventually realized that photography was where I wanted to put all of my time and energy.
I’d describe my style as dreamy, soft, and focused on real moments. I want people to feel comfortable in front of the camera and to look back at their photos and remember the genuine emotions of that day. My background in art gave me a love for creativity and storytelling, and that naturally shows up in my work.
I started out mainly with graduation sessions. I love being on campuses and celebrating such an exciting moment with people. From there, I began photographing couples, which eventually led me into the wedding industry. It’s been a big change from where I started, but one that I’ve really enjoyed. I think part of what makes me excited about weddings is that I’m in that season of life myself! I’m planning my own wedding, so I connect with couples who are walking through the same process.
Right now, I’m working on building my place in the wedding space while still photographing grads, couples, and portraits. What’s most important to me is making people feel comfortable in front of the camera and giving them photos that feel true to who they are.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
Growing up, I didn’t really think photography or anything art-related could be a real career. When you tell people you are interested in art, it often gets treated like a hobby or something that you cannot make a career. I believed that for a long time. I thought it was something I would always keep on the side, but not something I could build a life around.
I was also a very shy kid, so I never pictured myself doing something that put me in front of people all the time. Over time I learned that when you keep going and keep pursuing what you love, it can turn into something bigger. Photography has pushed me out of my shell and shown me that what I used to see as just a hobby is actually the thing that makes me feel the happiest.
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
The fear of failure has definitely held me back the most. I grew up with a lot of anxiety, so I was always worried about doing something wrong or not being good enough. That fear made me second-guess myself and kept me from putting myself out there for a long time. Over time, I’ve learned that failure is just part of the process and it doesn’t mean you’re not capable. Failing forward has taught me more than getting it “perfect” ever could, and it has pushed me to grow in ways I never expected.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. Is the public version of you the real you?
The public version of me is real, but it’s not the full picture. I try to stay true to who I am, but of course online you mostly see the highlights. I’m still the same person in real life, just a little more intoverted and unfiltered.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
For a while I was doing what I thought I was supposed to do, which was teaching. It was safe and steady. But now I know I’m doing what I was born to do. Photography feels like the thing that fits who I am at my core.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.jessicasolisphotography.com
- Instagram: @visualsofjessica
- Other: TikTok: @visualsofjessica
Image Credits
All couples photos taken by me.
Branding photos taken by Quincy Palmer @quincy.gallery on Instagram.
