Matt Stagliano chats with Erica Manning, a senior photographer who's not just snapping pics of high school seniors but is also slaying the competition scene. With accolades like being a fellow at the Portrait Masters and consistently landing her work in the top ranks of competitions, Erica is a force to be reckoned with. We delve into her unique approach to photo competitions, how she plays with lighting to create jaw-dropping images, and the importance of finding your own voice in the creative world. Plus, if you've ever wondered how to elevate your portrait game from standard to spectacular, Erica's got you covered.

Takeaways:

• Erica Manning emphasizes the importance of storytelling in photography, especially for senior portraits, transforming them into character-driven narratives.
• Lighting techniques play a crucial role in Erica's photography, enabling her to create dramatic effects that enhance the emotional impact of her portraits.
• Competing in photography has taught Erica that every submission is a learning opportunity, and she approaches each competition with a growth mindset.
• Erica shares her journey of evolving her style from standard senior portraits to artistic, conceptual works that reflect deeper stories and emotions.

Links referenced in this episode:

• ericamanningphoto.com