Today we’d like to introduce you to Jonathan Solorio.
Hi Jonathan, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I took my first picture when I was 13, back in 2014. I still remember that it was on an old grey camera. The kind that mom used to chase you with on the day of your high school prom! It wasn’t until I entered high school that I took a serious interest in it. I pushed myself to learn this new art concept and would stay up watching YouTube videos about DSLRs. Growing up in a low-income household, buying a DSLR which at the time was considered a form of professionalism, was something I could only dream about. After months of saving birthday money and small project payments, I was able to buy my first entry-level camera. By my junior year of high school, I took it upon myself to learn sports photography but still maintained an interest in portraiture and event photography. Outside of school, people noticed that I was taking pictures and quickly asked for my going rates. I was shocked, as I was only a high-schooler, and was astonished that someone wanted to pay me for something that I enjoyed doing. During my senior year of high school, I was taking pictures of all sports while capturing an event on the weekend and keeping deadlines for the school yearbook. Moreover, I was entering my work into competitions, exhibits and found myself succeeding. Now that I have entered college, I realize that sky’s the limit. I continue working with sports teams and look forward to those weekends where I get to meet new families or see the bride and groom dance for the first time.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
While I was succeeding in my academics and photography, there was still a part of me that would constantly struggle. From a young age, I always found myself anxious and nervous around crowds. I went far in hiding my anxiety, often running to the restroom afraid that I would go into a panic mode and embarrass myself. All through middle school and part of high school, I avoided eating in public areas and refused to go to new places. All those around me knew something was wrong, but I kept it a secret, only revealing to my doctor. Growing up within a Hispanic culture, I had known that overcoming mental health stigma was an enormous obstacle, something that I felt was too challenging. After years of hiding my anxiety, I was finally able to share my struggle with those around me. You could imagine that taking pictures at large events was scary at first because of my struggle with anxiety. Before I knew it, photographing large events became a form of therapy and for once, I felt comfort. Now in my 2nd year of therapy, I have found myself revisiting all those past experiences I missed out on while I was younger.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I take wedding/quinceañera pictures, family, and senior portraits. I am proud of the fact that I am one of the few photographers that speak Spanish fluently and is able to capture the Mexican culture. I think what sets me apart is my young age. I’m only 20, not to mention the fact when people initially see me they think I’m younger. Given my young age, I understand the new trends while keeping that traditional touch.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
I absolutely love the San Diego Beaches. One of my favorite beaches in our area is Windnsea Beach in La Jolla. I also love hiking, especially deep into the north county, I must say the waterfalls in San Diego are insane! I only wish there were more to go to!
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.jsolovisuals.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jsolovisuals/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jsolovisuals
