Jessica Eshete: Ethiopian fashion and portrait photographer exploring emotion, identity and cultural expression

Jessica Eshete is a fashion and portrait photographer who uses photography as a tool for visual storytelling. Her photographs explore emotion, identity, and cultural expression through an editorial lens. Eshete’s art draws inspiration from fashion and art, and combines narrative and style to produce compelling, deliberate visuals.

How would you describe yourself?

I consider myself to be a curious photographer who finds inspiration in both the ordinary and the uncommon.

I am a serial hobbyist who has experimented with skateboarding, crocheting, jewellery making, and, most recently, learning to play the bass guitar to pursue my dream of playing an instrument.

I have learned patience, creativity, and the thrill of experimentation from each of these hobbies, which I apply to my photography.

At my core, I am also a collector. I make an effort to gather jewellery, artwork, and even ketchup, oddly, from countries I have travelled to. Finding beauty in unexpected places, paying attention to details, and using visual elements to communicate stories are among the small passions I incorporate into my photography.

Fundamentally, I consider myself a storyteller who uses music, travel, and hobbies to create expressive, purposeful, and uniquely personal photographs.

How did you get started in photography?

I remember using my iPhone to take pictures wherever I was because I wanted to record and create, regardless of the environment. I had the opportunity to enrol in photography classes after relocating to the United States, which significantly influenced my foundation. 

At that point, I bought my first camera and started taking my work more seriously. I began organising creative projects, exploring different concepts, and improving my knowledge and abilities.

I still consider myself to be evolving, as I feel like I am constantly developing my style and there is always more to learn.

What type of photography do you specialise in?

At the moment, my focus is on portraiture, editorial, and fashion photography.  This area appeals to me because it enables me to blend visual direction, style, emotion, and storytelling. It feels like a way of producing images that are not just visually pleasing but also purposeful and expressive.

I initially focused on the technical aspects of photography, such as using my camera, lighting, and editing. As I grew more comfortable with my camera, I naturally gravitated towards more creative and conceptual work.

My style has grown more refined and deliberate over time. When it comes to organising shoots, choosing subjects, and creating a visual story, I am more intentional.

Additionally, I have become more comfortable trying new things and creating concepts that represent culture, identity, and mood. Although I still believe my style is evolving, it is undoubtedly moving closer to the kind of editorial storytelling I wish to produce.

What are the main themes that inspire your photography?

My work is focused on self-expression, culture, and storytelling. My goal is to produce images that convey meaning, emotion, and identity, while also being visually striking.

I connect with people by creating relatable, authentic images. I attempt to depict moments that people may relate to emotionally or identify with through composition, styling, and atmosphere.

What moment in your career are you most proud of?

The thing I am most proud of is not a particular moment, but rather the daily decisions I make to improve. The most significant aspect of my journey has been choosing to continue learning, growing, and challenging myself creatively.

I take great pride in looking back and seeing how much I have grown, both creatively and technically. That development serves as a reminder that I am headed in the right direction.

What's the biggest challenge you've faced as a photographer?

Getting out of my shell and developing interpersonal skills has been one of my toughest challenges. Growing up, I had difficulty connecting with others and putting myself out there. 

Photography helped me overcome that. It made me more open, more direct, and better able to build connections with people. I have developed meaningful relationships and become more self-assured as a result of that process.

I have been able to connect with several creatives, meet some of my closest friends, and find a remarkable mentor. I have learned that discomfort often leads to growth, and putting yourself out there can lead to unexpected opportunities.

If you could collaborate with anyone, who would it be and why?

Some photographers I would really love to work with in the future are @fedekortez, @unavailable_photographer, and Albert Chime. They each bring a unique artistic perspective to photography, which is why I find their work so appealing.

Their deliberate and expressive use of lighting, composition, and narrative aligns with how I would like to approach my own fashion and portrait photography.

Collaborating with them would not only push me creatively but also allow me to learn new ways of translating emotion, identity, and culture through an editorial lens.

What do you think of 54Ruum?

It seems to be more than just a platform; it is a place that purposefully draws attention to and supports African photographers and artists who deserve more exposure. 

The sense of purpose behind it is what resonates most with me. It is about building a community where stories, culture, and identity are valued and openly expressed, not just about showcasing work.

Seeing the work being shared inspires me and reminds me of the importance of having spaces where our perspectives are recognised and valued.

How's the photography and art space in Ethiopia?

I was not deeply immersed in the art scene in my home country when I was younger. However, after moving to the United States, I have been able to follow the creative scene in Ethiopia through different artists and platforms.

From what I have seen, there is a growing community with numerous workshops, exhibitions, and young creatives who are passionate and intentional about their work.

It is exciting to see more people pursuing their creativity and expressing themselves. It also makes me look forward to returning and working on projects there in the future.

Advice someone considering a career in photography

Remain consistent and be patient with yourself. Every shot teaches you something, even if it does not turn out the way you had hoped. 

Spend time learning both the creative and technical aspects, and do not be afraid to share your work. Building relationships and sharing your work are just as important as creating it.

Above all, allow yourself to grow. You only need to take the first step by starting with what you already have.

Your perspective is what makes your work unique, and photography is a personal journey. Even if your vision is still in its early stages, trust in it.