Meet Jenna Wood | Digital Creator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jenna Wood and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jenna, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
It was during my last year at Cal State San Marcos that I realized my career choice was deviating from what seemed normal. While many of my fellow students were lining up internships or entry-level positions, I was experiencing a paradigm shift. There I was trying to map out my future, searching out potential job opportunities at local companies, but I knew deep down that I needed to take a different path. My creative side surfaced while I was learning the basics of digital media marketing and photography. I felt I needed more time to develop my skills without the limitations of a job title.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?

Having stepped into this field with a broad range of interests, I was faced with the daunting task of defining my niche. It’s often stressed that content creators “niche down” or hone in on just one area of expertise. I think what sets me apart from others is that instead of staying in one lane, I chose to carve my own niche. I began my online journey as a foodie and over time, transitioned into a lifestyle localist and influencer. It was when I stepped in front of the camera and began modeling with my favorite brands and at local spots that it suddenly clicked. Photography was the tool that would allow me to harmonize my various interests, which seemed to overlap.

I began experimenting with photography while learning the tricks of the trade as a foodie. Food styling, collaborating with healthy brands, and even recipe development were fun hobbies for me as I was earning a business degree. One of the last courses I took in college was digital marketing – that’s what lit a fuse in me to pursue content creation as a whole. That meant shifting the subject in frame from food to me and my surroundings. I spent hours editing photos, tinkering with color grades and adjustment layers, and immersing myself in the real craft of photography. Fast forward to today, I’m finding ways to blend my interests with my skills and education. The greatest satisfaction for me, though, isn’t just creating, but encouraging and inspiring others along my journey to live positive, healthy lives.

It’s funny now to think that just a few years ago, I didn’t even own a camera! I think that’s one of the takeaways I’d like to leave with anyone who is considering becoming a creative is that it’s okay to start small. Understand that it’s a process, there will be challenges along the way, and success doesn’t happen overnight – bet you never heard that before. It’s safe to say I’m in the business of “keeping clichés cliché.” The point is, it’s true. Learning curves are normal. You’re allowed to make mistakes or change direction. It helps to remember to enjoy the simple things, like a sunset or favorite dessert. Even when others don’t recognize your small accomplishments, taking the time to do that for yourself will help you stay motivated.

Going forward, I plan to expand my online presence on other platforms, including launching my very own blog in the near future. I’m very excited to see where things go from here!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were in town with a week to spare and hadn’t seen San Diego before, I’d definitely want to give them a proper city welcome. We’d start out grabbing specialty lattes and bagels at Communal Coffee in North Park. Then we’d stroll through the trendy North Park neighborhood for a photo op at the Greetings from San Diego mural. We’d spend the rest of our day soaking up the beautiful gardens and architecture of Balboa Park. Of course, we’d have to climb the California Tower and take in the great aerial views of the park. To cap it off, we’d have a relaxing dinner at The Prado in the park.

On day two, we’d head to Seaport Village, grab a cup of coffee at Spill the Beans cafe, walk around the shops and marina, then enjoy a signature treat from the Seaport Fudge Factory. After touring the USS Midway Museum, we’d watch the sunset over the Coronado Bridge on a dinner cruise.

On day three, we’d drive across the bridge to Coronado Island to wade in the water before taking a short e-bike tour of the island. Circle back to Seaport Village for tacos at Puestos!

I’d also suggest checking out these touristy hotspots, such as Mission Bay Beach Club, SeaWorld, the San Diego Zoo, Rooftop Cinema Club, and great scenic spots, like Torrey Pines and Sunset Cliffs.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
This goes out to my mom who helps keep things running behind the scenes. She wears many hats, from research and meal prep to organizing and filling the role of personal photographer.

My dad’s support has also allowed me the freedom to pursue my goals. His work ethic and passion continue to inspire me to keep pushing forward.

There’s an increasing list of other creators I would also like to dedicate my story to who I truly consider to be my friends, as they provide a real sense of community. The encouragement and support we share is an unexpected treasure.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennalaurenwood/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenna-wood-7868a81b9

Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/100365371463253/

Image Credits
Diana Wood