Today we’d like to introduce you to Jestina Smith.
Hi Jestina, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I’m Jestina Smith, born and raised in Miami, Florida. Before photography, I was a full-time professional dancer, traveling and performing with artists such as Don Omar, Trina, 2 Chainz, and Uncle Luke. Dance shaped how I understand movement, presence, and storytelling, skills that now live behind my lens.
After a serious car accident in 2020 forced me to step away from dance, I picked up a camera to reconnect with my creativity. What began as a healing outlet quickly became my second passion and eventually, my purpose.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
After a serious car accident in November of 2020, I lost my apartment due to covid layoffs, which forced me to step away from dance due to a lot of physical pain. I picked up a camera as a creative outlet. What began as a way to heal quickly became my second passion.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Pose For Stina is a production-driven photography brand I founded to help people feel confident, seen, and represented through intentional visuals. I specialize in branding, portrait, product, and lifestyle photography for entrepreneurs, creatives, and businesses who want imagery that feels polished, purposeful, and authentic.
My background as a professional dancer heavily influences how I work. Dance taught me how to understand movement, body language, and presence. That experience allows me to guide my clients through posing and direction in a way that feels natural and empowering. They never have to wonder what to do in front of the camera.
What truly sets my brand apart is the experience. I approach every project with a production mindset, guiding the creative process from concept to execution. From creative direction and planning to collaborating with trusted makeup artists and stylists, my team and I create an environment that feels structured, supportive, and elevated from start to finish.
I’ve had the opportunity to work with brands and individuals such as Le Premier Miami, Game Day Couture, Randi Mahomes, Price.com, and Etana NYC, as well as real estate professionals and consultants nationwide.
What I’m most proud of is building a brand rooted in confidence, intention, and collaboration. Pose For Stina isn’t just about creating beautiful images: it’s about creating an experience that supports my clients’ growth and tells their story in a way that feels aligned, elevated, and true to who they are.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
My advice for people that are just starting out is simple, don’t be afraid to ask for help and take the help. Knowledge helps us get a leg up in this world. Investing in yourself and a mentor would put you miles ahead of your peers. and be patient with yourself.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://poseforstina.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poseforstina/
Image Credits
All images were captured by me, Jestina Smith
