Jess Val Ortiz
Photoshoot / Interview
photoshoot
Talent:Jess Val OrtizPhotography, Creative Direction, and Production by: Mike Ruiz
Editor-in-Chief: Dimitri Vorontsov
Stylist: Melvin Sanders @MelvinStyles
Hair: Ana Estela @anaestelahair
Makeup: R Pro Makeup Artist @Rpromakeupartist
Photography Assistant: Ozzie Gutierrez @ozzie__g__
Location: Los Angeles, California
interview
When did you realize you want to start making social media content?
When the year hit 2020, I was finishing up my senior year of college. The plan was to showcase in front of agents in New York City, and audition for multiple Broadway productions. However, due to Covid-19, I was unable to do any of that. Once the world shut down, I packed up my college apartment and moved straight back home to live in my childhood bedroom. I felt like everything I’d worked towards my whole life had been stripped away from me forever. It wasn’t until my two friends from college convinced me to download this new fun app called “TikTok” that I could make content and continue some artistic endeavors virtually. It all started as just fun to pass the time, but after about a year of making content, I was able to call ‘content creating’ my full-time job.
Is it easier to perform live in front of an audience or make videos at home?
It’s certainly a lot easier to make videos at home because I have so many chances to film so many takes of my content! Whenever I am on stage, I only have one opportunity to make my performance as perfect as it can be! I definitely love doing both, but they’re extremely different processes!
Was there a moment or event that stood out to you as particularly impactful or significant to your career?
This year I was invited to the Video Music Awards in Newark, New Jersey. It was the first time I ever had the opportunity to walk a red carpet! That was the moment I felt like a star, and I will never forget that opportunity- seeing all of my favorite celebrities, all in one area. That was the moment when I felt that all of my hard work had finally paid off, and now I get to live my dream.
Who or what inspires you in your career?
This might sound cheesy, but my boyfriend has been a huge inspiration. He is always motivating me to do my best and wants nothing more than to watch me succeed. I’ve never had this type of support system before, and I feel incredibly lucky to have him by my side.
Besides acting, you also have a big passion for health and fitness. Can you share with us your self-care routines that help you stay on track with your busy schedules?
I am a HUGE skincare girly, and I also try to stay active for at least an hour every day! When it comes to skincare, I use a gentle face wash such as Cera Ve or Panoxyl, and then the Glow Recipe niacinamide watermelon drops to finish off! For my fitness routine, I’ve been using the stair master most days, and then the elliptical when I feel a bit worn out (lol)!
What are your goals for the coming years?
It has always been my dream to be an actress. To be in a Broadway show. It has been my dream since I was 5 years old, and it will be until the day I die. I want to keep working hard and hopefully get to achieve my ultimate dream one day.
What advice would you give to someone that may want to embark on this career path?
It’s important to put 110% of yourself into your work. Strive to be someone that others look up to. Work hard and get yourself out there. The hardest of workers will ALWAYS surpass everyone else.
Do you have any other projects coming up or in the works?
I am continuing on with my social media endeavors, attending events, photo shoots, performing in a concert in NYC on October 10th, and hopefully, more exciting things will be approaching near the Holiday season!