We recently had the chance to connect with Jesus Martinez and have shared our conversation below.
Jesus, so good to connect and we’re excited to share your story and insights with our audience. There’s a ton to learn from your story, but let’s start with a warm up before we get into the heart of the interview. What makes you lose track of time—and find yourself again?
The moment I’m behind a camera, everything else fades. I get into that creative zone, and that feeling is why I love this work.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Jesus Martinez, a San Diego based Director and Cinematographer founder of Outtake Media, a creative-first production house where we focus on commercials, documentaries, and some feature work we’re developing. What makes us different is that we lead with story and emotion, we love making work that actually connects with people. Right now we’re pushing to grow our projects and take on stuff that keeps us excited, challenged, and inspired every time we pick up a camera.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who taught you the most about work?
As a first-generation Latino, hard work came naturally because that’s all I saw growing up. My dad never called out, and my mom worked two jobs while still keeping our home together and making sure we had a warm meal every night. I’m proud of that upbringing, it shaped my values, my work ethic, and the way I show up in everything I do.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes, I’m technically on my second attempt at going full-time. The first run only lasted a few months, but this second round has been going strong for three years. Building a network takes time, but finding your path, figuring out what truly interests you, takes even longer. I’m finally in a place where the work lines up with what I’m passionate about.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
I think this industry is full of denial that anyone can actually make it. Sure, some people have an easier path, but at the end of the day it really comes down to grit. The time you invest is the reward you get back. All you need is a camera and a story, and honestly, sometimes the story doesn’t show up until you just start shooting.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What are you doing today that won’t pay off for 7–10 years?
I invest my time in projects I genuinely care about. I built Outtake Media to have the freedom to choose work that aligns with me creatively. Some of these projects don’t bring immediate returns, but they shape how I’m seen as an artist and help me connect with the right, like-minded people.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.outtakemedia.com/#home-about
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jesusmartinezcreates/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/99272615/admin/dashboard/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@JesusMartinezCreates
