Hi, I’m Mandy!—a photographer, mother, and quiet sentimentalist who believes in the beauty of simple, meaningful moments.
I’m the kind of person who notices the little things—the way a toddler reaches for their mama’s hand, the nervous laugh between a bride and groom before their first look, or the fleeting glance that says everything without words. Those are the moments I love to photograph, because I know just how fast they pass.
I’ve always been a bit of a perfectionist and overachiever (oldest sibling energy, anyone?), but becoming a mom has shifted the way I see the world. I’ve learned to slow down, to soak in the in-between, and to appreciate the power of memory. Now, I bring that same heart into every session—blending intentional planning with genuine connection to create photos that feel timeless, effortless, and real.
I want you to feel like you’re working with a friend—not just a vendor. Someone who’ll walk alongside you, guide you with care, and celebrate your story through images that truly reflect who you are. Whether we're documenting your wedding day, a growing family, or a milestone moment, my goal is simple: to help you feel comfortable, cared for, and beautifully seen.
So if you’re looking for a photographer who values meaning over trend, connection over perfection, and legacy over likes—you’re in the right place.
Let’s capture something real together.
hello there!
a look back...
Portraits by Mandy was born! I started my photography business specializing in senior portraits. My first paid sessions were in 2009!
Graduated from GVSU - Go Lakers! - with a Bachelor's of Business Administration in Accounting & Finance with a minor in Spanish. Nothing to do with photography, but definitely useful for starting and running my own business!
Assisted my friend at a wedding for the first time. I was immediately hooked and knew I wanted to start shooting weddings myself.
We've come along way since these 1st sessions!
Photographed my first Portraits by Mandy wedding on September 1, 2012. I will forever be grateful to these beautiful people for taking a chance on me!
Met Shawn in May, 2018.
I kept shooting as many weddings as I could, both as a lead and second-shooter.
We're engaged! December 23, 2019
We started planning a destination wedding in Ireland, but then the pandemic hit. We eloped on March 23, 2020.
Photographed my 100th wedding.
Hired to shoot my first destination wedding in Texas!
Became a mama! Sawyer Rook was born June 22, 2022.
Still capturing weddings, seniors, and growing families and loving every minute of it!
Sunflowers - big, bright, and impossible to ignore (kind of like my ideal light for portraits).
Country Music on repeat. Bonus points if it's nostalgic and a little twangy.
Euchre or really anything that lets me play cards, laugh too loud, and snack mid-deal.
A Starbucks run I swore I didn't need... until I did.
Gilmore Girls
IYKYK.
Autumn. I live for cozy layers, golden light, and cider-anything.
Tiramisu. Creamy, coffee-soaked, yes-please magic.
I could plan a party just for fun. Tablescapes? Nametags? Balloon garlands? Count me in!
Halloween - yes, I'm that person with themed snacks and family costumes.
Tiramisu
click each venue to see more!
Given all the photographers out there these days, why choose me? With over a decade of experience, a detailed and organized approach, and a brand that emphasizes vibrant, authentic, and timeless imagery, I ensure clients get the absolute most out of their photography investment. Good photography goes beyond just capturing moments—I provide a personalized experience from start to finish, and just may become a close friend by the end of our time together. My goal is to help my clients optimize their experience by helping them truly prepare for their events and sessions in order to create stunning, heartfelt images.