Little Jess, Big Heart
Intentional and thoughtful creative highlighting honest connection, joy, and emotion.
Who’s that girl? It’s Jess! I’m proudly Filipina American and a hopeless romantic (thanks, Sailor Moon!). I’m pretty much obsessed with capturing memories since I’m extremely nostalgic. I’ve had so much professional experience in various fields that I am a master at anticipating needs and quickly thinking of solutions on the spot. Not only will I make sure we cover every detail in prep for your special day, I’ll also be hyping you up during portraits because UM HELLO you are GORGEOUS and as Bey says, “we gon' slay”! I get those fun reception photos because I’m ON the dance floor with y’all and may lead a line dance or two. Is that me doing choreo? Yes, yes it is. All at the same time, I’m capturing those intimate moments you look back and say, “wow, Jess caught that??”
I’ve been doing this for 10 years. Witnessing couples express their love for each other still gets me in my feels EVERY. SINGLE. TIME. Your special day is a special day for me, too. I want to work with folks from all walks of life who love who they love authentically. So are you ready to make magic together? Let’s do this!
Photos by Lucia Tran; 100% proceeds went to the National Network of Abortion Funds.
Who’s that girl? It’s Jess!
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Music & Love
Daughter of musicians. Growing up, I took piano and voice lessons. In high school and college, I was a singer/songwriter who performed at coffee shops and venues. This path brought me to my partner of 7 years. We were in a band together: he played synth and I played bass!
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From VA to CA
I was born and raised in Virginia Beach, went to college in Richmond, and lived in the NOVA/DC area for 8 years. We moved to L.A. in 2020 and LOVE IT. I will gladly come back home to photograph your wedding on the East Coast. My parents and sister moved to Seattle so reach out if you’re in the PNW!
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Mid 30's Career Change
I went to VCU and majored in Graphic Design. I balanced a full-time job as a designer and photographer for 10 years. Now I work in Independent Music Licensing where I get to pitch an amazing roster of artists for creative briefs (ads/film/tv). Working in visuals is just part of who I am!
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AAPI Pop-Up Market
In response to Anti-Asian violence and because I love supporting local small businesses, I created a community pop-up market amplifying emerging AAPI creators in LA. I would LOVE to work with you to curate unique gifts for your family, wedding party and attendees! Follow on Instagram @co_mrkt
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Dog Mom
After years of helping raise other pups, I finally adopted a puppy in December 2020. He's named after Prince Zuko from Avatar: The Last Airbender. He LOVES food, hiking, and frolicking in the water. He’s a little shy around new humans but comes around if you’ve got the treats!
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Dance
In college, I co-created a dance community called KODACHROME (after Kodak’s most colorful film) in Virginia and North Carolina which provided affordable workshops, events, and opportunities—I’m proud to say it launched so many careers. It’s also the reason why I will break out in choreo during your reception!
“Jess is so talented, easy going, highly professional, very friendly, and uplifting—making us feel our best. You can tell she is passionate about photography and gives 110% to her clients! We're so happy to have a photographer we can completely trust to capture beautiful photos.”
— Kimberly + Josh
My Happy Place
From the Virginia Coast to the California coast: the beach! And supporting local businesses, especially those that are AAPI owned.
Ideal Night
I COULD create an amazing itinerary of exploring cool things but honestly, eating ice cream, watching a movie, & cuddling my pup and partner.
Secret Talent
Figuring out the film or show in which a song has been used—it’s a dream of mine to be a Music Supervisor!
Guilty Pleasure
Blasting and singing to my favorite emo, screamo, and pop-punk songs. Taking Back Sunday, Dashboard Confessional, The Starting Line, Thrice—ya feel me??
Got Me Groovin’
Anything by Beyoncé—you know Renaissance is on REPEAT! Of course, anything produced by The Neptunes (forever reppin’ the 757).
Cool Fact
I was invited on stage at a N.E.R.D concert where I locked eyes with Pharrell and we sang to each other. I also broke out in choreography on stage!
Captured on film by my partner and second shooter: Ngawang Samphel
