Hey there! I’m Erica Manning, owner an photographer at Erica Manning Photography. But you’ve probably guessed that by now…
I’m actually an import to Ohio; I spent much of my early life in Wisconsin and college years in Colorado, graduating from CU with a marketing degree (Go Buffs!!). I’ve been in the Central Ohio area for about 30 years. I’ve always loved taking photos, but found my calling as a professional photographer in Columbus Ohio a little over 13 years ago when my husband gifted me a Canon T2i camera for Christmas. Within 3 months I was completely obsessed with all things photography, and ended up selling my T2i and purchasing a professional grade Canon. I’ve never looked back.
I have many, many studio photos of myself much like the photos below… not because I enjoy selfies, but because I am constantly trying new lighting, photography and editing techniques, and the best way to test them is on a real person. The ugly doll I have used as a model in the past is pretty creepy.
I am married to the most wonderfully supportive man on the planet. My life and career most certainly would not be where it is today without him. He makes me laugh and keeps me grounded. As a bonus, the hubs is a chiropractor. This means that when I spend entirely too much time hunched over the editing desk or carry an over-stuffed lens bag for hours on end, he fixes me.
I also have two BEAUTIFUL daughters. Yes, I may be a bit biased. But really they’re awesome. And so, so different. Like, CrossFit vs. craft club different. Yet, they love each other deeply. My oldest, Olivia, graduated from the University of Cincinnati and is now living in Florida (sniffle sniffle) and my youngest, Sophia, just returned from teaching English as a second language in Spain and is headed to grad school at Miami of Ohio. The emotional roller coaster of watching my babies leave the nest is still pretty fresh.
And our life just wouldn’t be complete without our furry friends. Jack (a.k.a. Black Jack, Jack Black, Just Jack… the list goes on) is just the sweetest, goodest boy. Maybe too good, because his brother, Norm (a.k.a. Norman Bates), dominates him every minute of every day. Poor dog doesn't stand a chance. Norm came into our lives about 5 years ago and he's rotton to the core and ALL MINE (which is good because Jack just worships my hubs). Somehow I have convinced Norm to participate in some of my most creative and award-winning images. The stardom has gone to his head. If you'd like to feed his ego you can find him on Instagram (@this_is_norm_the_cat).
In my spare time I enjoy… photography.
No joke. I have been known to watch photography webinars at 3 am. On vacation, I wear a camera around my neck as though it is jewelry. I’ll spend hours in the studio on “days off” to perfect a new technique. I feel blessed beyond words that I have a career that I am so passionate about, and work incredibly hard to see that this translates into great images for you, my client.
I feel that my journey in photography is a God-given gift. As such, I seek opportunities as a photographer in Columbus Ohio to serve others with that gift.
Since my very first year of my business, I have served through my church. I'm often found taking photos at baptisms, worship events, and Sunday services. I have provided images for families that otherwise couldn't commission professional portraits at events like Single Parent Fair and Tim Tebow Foundation’s Night to Shine. My photography skills have even taken me across the globe on mission. I am honored to provide my time and talents to orgainzations such as Brockstrong Foundation and Pink Ribbon Girls, and look forward to more opportunties to shine light on these and other worthy causes.
Let's Chat.
The best way to reach me is through the contact form or via email, as often I return messages after normal business hours. I will make every effort to get back to you within 24 hours. If you don't hear from me within that time, your contact form might not have gone through, so please contact me directly at ericamanningpt@gmail.com.