Meet Mandy Penn | Fine Art Portrait Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Mandy Penn and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mandy, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I’ve always been a more creative person, even when I was really young. When I was about 22 or 23, modeling fell into my lap. It helped open up a whole new creative outlet and taught me to express more intense emotions. I found that the truly creative shoots were my favorites: the creepy, the intense, the girl in a nightgown curled up in a deserted house… these shoots told stories, and I could FEEL the emotions. I was really good at portraying those emotions. When I moved back to Colorado I was told that I wasn’t “skinny enough” to model, and I put it aside. I had twins, and I decided to step back and spend time watching them grow. What came as a surprise was how FAST they were growing! I didn’t want to miss a single moment, so I picked up a camera to capture those times, and I never looked back. I fell in love with having a camera in my hand, and I found I was really good at photography. I took what I learned from modeling and used it in my photography, helping people bring out emotions and tell stories. A large part of why people choose me is that I don’t deliver the same old family portraits everyone else does. I chose this creative career because I needed a place for my creativity to THRIVE and to grow. I knew I didn’t want a typical 9-5 job, and I didn’t want to work for someone else. I wanted to create, and to have the satisfaction of making beautiful art for myself and others. This career has absolutely given that to me, and with my passion, creativity, and skills from my past, I have found a lot of success and endless satisfaction.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Hi, I’m Mandy! I am an award-winning newborn and family photographer serving families in Colorado Springs, Fountain, Monument, Falcon, Manitou Springs, and other surrounding areas. I strongly believe that photos are meant for more than just social media, they’re meant to be cherished and passed down through generations! This is why I specialize in creating an entire experience, catered to each individual client (that’s you!). From the ease of booking and planning together, to the soothing and private studio (where you’ll be pampered and cared for), to the now treasured art ready for your wall or mantle: this is about YOU remembering these moments with love. Together, we’ll capture the adorable smiles and precious giggles you’d never want to forget! The best part is that while I’m a very creative person, I also LOVE hearing your ideas! Let’s make this experience true to you and your family! Simply choose your experience and start dreaming— it’s time to make moments to remember!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I absolutely love the feel of Manitou Springs and Old Colorado City. There are so many beautiful spots for pictures and the local shops are my favorite! It sets itself apart because it has so much culture there. I also love going to Garden of the Gods, I know its where everyone wants to go when they visit but there is a reason, it is breathtaking. Mesa Overlook is the best place to see the whole garden and you have a beautiful view of Pikes Peak as well! You can’t beat that.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My biggest support is my husband. He is continually pushing me and helping me grow and to constantly see my potential. I would not be where I am today without him.

Website: mandypenn.com

Instagram: instagram.com/mandypennphotography

Facebook: Facebook.com/mandypennphotography