Today we’d like to introduce you to Erica Manning.
Hi Erica, 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’ve always loved taking photos, but I found my true calling as a professional photographer in Columbus, Ohio, a little over 14 years ago when my husband gifted me a starter camera for Christmas. Within three months, I was completely obsessed with all things photography, eventually upgrading to a professional-grade Canon and never looking back. Over the past 5–6 years, I’ve focused my passion and expertise on high school senior photography, carving out a niche with my creative, award-winning portraits. Today, I’m proud to be known not just for capturing beautiful images, but for creating unforgettable, one-of-a-kind experiences for each senior I photograph.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Early in my photography career, I took on every job that came my way — weddings, events, newborns, you name it — often undercharging just to stay competitive. I was saying yes to everything and everyone, which quickly led to burnout and little to no profitability. I didn’t have a handle on the business side of things, and despite the passion I had for photography, I was barely holding on. When my personal life also became overwhelming due to caring for ill parents, I reached a breaking point. It was clear something had to change. That’s when I made a decision to rebuild — not just creatively, but as a business owner. I committed to improving both my craft and my understanding of what it takes to run a sustainable, purpose-driven photography business.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
As I grew in my craft, I discovered just how powerful storytelling is in the images we create as photographers. It became my mission not just to take beautiful portraits, but to tell meaningful stories that resonate and leave a positive impact on people’s lives. I immersed myself in learning everything I could about visual storytelling — how to evoke emotion, build narrative, and create images that go beyond the surface. This dedication has led to multiple international awards through esteemed organizations such as Professional Photographers of America, Icon International Photography Awards, The Portrait Masters, and WPE International Photography Awards. Today, This has helped me to carve out a niche unique in my area. Now I have the honor of speaking across the country on one of my greatest passions: the Power of Story in photography.
What makes you happy?
For me, the true joy is in the process of creating. I never approach a session thinking about the awards I might win — my focus is always on the story I want to tell. Each image begins as a vision, and gathering the components to bring it to life — the subject, the setting, the details — feels like piecing together a puzzle. There’s a deep satisfaction in watching that vision come together, not for recognition, but for the emotional connection it creates. The real reward comes when someone sees the image and feels the story — when it resonates, sparks emotion, or even shifts perspective. That’s when I know the work has done what it was meant to do.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://ericamanningphoto.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ericamanningphoto/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EricaManningPhotography
