Interview: Jessica Sanchez, Colorado Photographer
Photographer: Jessica Sanchez
Based: Colorado, USA
Instagram: @ourworldwithjessy
Quick Questions:
Favorite lens?
24-70 mm - so versatile!
Sunrise or sunset?
Sunrise
Favorite snack?
Perfect Bar, they’re so good and high in protein
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Somewhere you’ll always recommend or return to:
Crested Butte, Colorado - feels like a postcard every single time!
“Colorado’s mountains and Utah’s Desert have had the deepest impact on me - Every season shifts the landscape, and every trip offers a new perspective. They’ve shaped not only my photography but also how I see the world - slower, more mindful, and deeply connected to place.”
Outdoor Adventures + Intentional Travel
1. What first drew you to the camera, and how did your interest in photographing the outdoors begin?
My love for photography started in Arches National Park, where I realized the power of storytelling through imagery with an old Canon Camera. I took my first mountain sunset photo of the La Sal mountains not knowing anything about photography. That moment opened my eyes to how a single photograph could hold both emotion and memory. My passion for the outdoors grew from road trips across North America with my family at 8 years old and only deepened in my 20s when my husband introduced me to camping in Colorado. The combination of adventure and storytelling through a lens was something I couldn’t let go of.
2. What has had the greatest influence on your photography/creative pursuits?
My biggest influence has been lived experience—my brother’s passing, which taught me how fleeting life is, and my 6-month road trip in 2021, which taught me the importance of intentional travel. Places like the Colorado Rockies, alpine lakes, and desert landscapes fuel my creativity. I’m also inspired by photographers from all different niches who approach their work with creativity, fun camera techniques, & storytelling rather than perfection.
“My style leans cinematic, with a focus on natural light and tones that feel grounded and timeless. I love movement, motion blur, shadows, and storytelling images.”
3. What gear do you rely on most when photographing mountain environments? Are there any accessories that are essential for outdoor photoshoots or lenses that you love using?
I LOVE my Moment Cinebloom Filter Mist. I love how it disperses light and makes everything feel soft and cinematic.
4. Do you have any tips for protecting gear and managing settings when conditions change quickly?
I use Peak Design’s Camera cover when it’s raining and also keep your batteries warm when shooting in a cold environment so they last much longer!
5. Your work reflects a mindful, slow-travel approach. How does taking your time in a location influence the way you photograph and the results you achieve?
Slowing down allows me to notice the smaller, quieter details that often go unseen—shadows moving across a canyon wall, the shift of clouds over a mountain pass, or a bird call breaking the silence of the morning. By spending time in a place, I’m able to create images that feel less rushed and more connected to the environment. I want people to be able to feel the love and passion I have for the outdoors, whether that is a big landscape or a small detail within it.
6. How would you describe your style in terms of mood, light, and colour? When you’re in out photographing, what kind of stories or feelings are you aiming to capture?
My style leans cinematic, with a focus on natural light and tones that feel grounded and timeless. I love movement, motion blur, shadows, and storytelling images. While I used to be more moody in my editing, it has now evolved into a more film-like look to my images. I love playing with warm images and grain. My goal with my style is to capture a sense of stillness and presence—moments that remind you to pause and feel the land you’re standing on. More than just documenting a place, I want my photos to carry the emotions of being there.
7. Can you share one of your most memorable photography moments while travelling? What made it so special?
Three come to mind: The first being in Yosemite National Park at the crack of dawn. Everything was quiet before tourists rolled in. I walked around, listened to the birds, and felt incredibly grateful for earth.
Second was a solo trip to Crested Butte, Colorado. I visited during the wildflower festival in July and again, I hiked at the crack of dawn. I remember standing within the flowers, looking at the mountains behind them and I just felt like I was walking in a postcard. It felt absolutely incredible, words can’t even describe.
Lastly, is my very first photograph I took in Arches National Park at sunset. I remember standing on top of a red boulder and realizing how much I love travel, nature, and telling stories.
8. Which destination (city, country, or region) surprised you the most or left the greatest impact on your photography? Why?
Colorado’s mountains and Utah’s Desert have had the deepest impact on me. They’re my home base, but they never feel repetitive. Every season shifts the landscape, and every trip offers a new perspective. They’ve shaped not only my photography but also how I see the world—slower, more mindful, and deeply connected to place. I have been able to learn how to adjust my setting quickly to different lighting, seasons, and wildlife.
9. Have you pursued any study for photography? If so, share your experience and how it’s helped your photography.
I have taken quite an amount of photography courses in the past 5 years. From Lisa’s photography courses and all of her amazing e-books, to courses from other travel photographers like Chris Burkard, Finn Beales, Issac Johnston, Andrew Kearns, Forrest Mankins, & Alex Strohl. I think it’s important to learn from various photographers in and outside of your niche. Truthfully though, Lisa was the first person to believe in me and the first course I ever took. I truly believe that I am a stronger photographer because of her education. I am so grateful to be part of this community!
10. What are some challenges you’ve encountered as a photographer, and how do you overcome them?
Balancing photography with a full-time career in Radiation Therapy working in Cancer Centers, building my travel blog, and taking on photo clients has been a challenge. I’ve learned to carve out intentional time for creative work and to honor both parts of my life. I’ve burnt out multiple times in the past. I realized that while I am working towards a full-time creative career, I can use my current day job as a Radiation Therapist to help with finances. Also accepting that this is a long game. No success happens overnight and as long as I give myself time to work on my creative career, even just an hour, will lead me towards my goal. Another challenge has been representation in the outdoor space—being a Mexican-American woman and not always seeing myself reflected. Instead of letting that hold me back, I’ve used it as motivation to create the kind of inclusive stories I wish I had seen growing up. If I could inspire even one person that it’s possible for a brown girl to succeed in this type of work, I’ve succeeded.
11. What one piece of advice would you give to someone who is just starting in photography, or may have just purchased their first camera?
Don’t get caught up in the idea that you need all the best gear. I can’t shout this louder but, better gear does not make you a better photographer – skill does. It’s like giving the best guitar in the world to a random person who doesn’t know how to play. They need to know how to play it. Start with what you have and focus on learning how to see—light, composition, emotion, and storytelling. Your unique perspective matters more than the equipment in your hands. Find one gear you’re excited about using and play with it!
“Rooted in my identity as a first-generation Mexican-American woman and mindful traveler, I want to share that within my brand “Our World With Jessy”, everyone is not only welcome, but encouraged to join the journey—especially diverse women who may not often see themselves highlighted in outdoor & creative storytelling. I also want to intentionally highlight slow and mindful outdoor travel, inviting travelers who cherish adventure, nature, and travel and to explore with responsibility, protecting wild places, and embracing the joy and responsibility that comes with that deep connection. .”
12. Do you have any exciting trips or photography projects planned?
I am branching out and staying in Sedona, Arizona for the next 6 months. I can not wait to explore the trails, local town, and red rocks! So many photos and travel guides to come!
13. The content you create, and your videos are so beautifully compiled and consistently inspiring, do you have any advice for photographers trying to find their voice in the world of social media?
Show up as yourself. It’s tempting to follow trends, but the most meaningful connections and client partnerships come when your audience feels your authenticity. Share the behind-the-scenes, the imperfect moments, and your personal story. Consistency helps, but honesty matters more. I’ve also learned that once I shared the values I feel so passionate about, I attracted the right clients. The clients I was so excited to work with. Social media is a tool to continue spreading your message and connect, but don’t let it be an end all, be all.
Lastly, where can people find you online?
Colorado & Rockies Travel Blog: www.ourworldwithjessy.com
Commercial Portfolio: www.ourworldwithjessyphoto.com
Instagram: @ourworldwithjessy
My Exclusive Monthly Travel Newsletter: https://ourworldwithjessy.com/travel-newsletter
Thank you so much Jessy for sharing your insights, advice + adventures!
