MEET JANET MANDANAS

I found my way to photography somewhere you probably wouldn’t expect

Coming from a strict asian family, a creative career was non-negotiable so I spent most of my years studying medicine. I went to medical school, graduated cum laude and was training to become a baby doctor. My mental health took a toll as I was so terribly unhappy trying to fulfill the expectations of others rather than confidently walking my own path. I am proud to say that all my past career experiences have led me to what I was meant to do. 

Photography was always a hobby for me and I was always the friend that loved taking the candid, real, in the moment photographs. After becoming a mother in 2023, I found so much joy in the process of combining technicality, emotion and beauty in photography and decided to take it seriously as my full time life's work.

I am endlessly fascinated with capturing human emotion because no matter what emotion, it makes you feel alive. God graced me with the gift to notice the emotions and details that live in the smallest moments. I live to bring out the inner goddess of a mama to be, cute tiny baby feet, the unshakable and enduring love when a mother & father gazes at their child and the genuine laughter, authentic chaotic love in a family. I feel honored to be trusted to capture your life's greatest blessings and most meaningful moments. My hope is that you can relive those beautifully captured memories, look at them year after year and be able to remember how you felt at that very moment.

the artist

MEET JANET

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The little things that mean everything

When I am not documenting your story, I am living mine! I am grateful for my two boys and loving supportive husband and am in love with our little growing family that we have built together.

I am a lover of life's little luxuries. Some of my favorites I cannot live without are breathing in the scent of fresh air on our patio, a hot shower/bath at the end of the day, hearing my son's giggle, smelling their cute little feet even when it 's a little sour, the feeling of my feet in the green grass, spending time with friends and family and a beautiful black and white photograph that speaks to my soul. I truly believe that these simple moments are what makes life worthwhile.


Janet Mandanas

I photograph your family with the same care & intention I would want for my own

01.

MY STYLE OF PHOTOGRAPHY IS...

Classic, Natural, Film-inspired, soft yet bold in color, blend of emotional authenticity with refined elegance. 

02.

I AM INSPIRED BY...

Film photography, Historic Houses, Editorial Fashion & Interior magazines and the beauty of the world around us.

03.

ONE DAY I WOULD LOVE TO...

Find or build our dream home, be able to financially support a cause I am passionate about and  travel to more places around the world. 

WHAT IT MEANT FOR THEM

"I always feel a little out of place and awkward during professional photos, but Janet was so warm and welcoming and created a very authentic, relaxed space for our family. "

Abby

MY APPROACH

What I bring to your session

VIEW 1/3

1. My aim is to capture a mix of posed and candid moments

When you book a session with me, I will be seeking the simple beauty and magic that already exists within you and your family. I blend traditional posing with space for real moments to unfold naturally, so your images are full of love, laughter, connection and genuine emotion. I am drawn to the in-between moments that tell the truth of your family and believe that the chaos, the quirks and beautifully imperfect moments are to be celebrated. Your session is meant to feel effortless, relaxed and full of joy!

VIEW 2/3

2. My priority is to make you feel comfortable and beautiful 

When investing in a photography session, I understand it can feel stressful and overwhelming preparing for what to wear, having feelings of insecurities and being vulnerable in front of a camera. My priority is to help make you feel comfortable and beautiful. I will guide you with any questions you may have, including clothing choices if you wish. When you show up to your session, all you have to do is focus on each other and enjoy the moment. I will capture all the real life moments and joy that already exists within you.

VIEW 3/3

3. I'm a mother, I understand the chaos, meltdowns & the no's. 

It is natural to worry whether your toddlers will cooperate during your photo session and whether it would be worth it to invest in one. Trust me, you are not alone. As a mom of two boys, I absolutely understand! It is perfectly normal for your toddler to not want to sit still for a photo session. Whether your toddler wanders off to collect rocks or is attached to your hip, not to worry! I follow your toddler's lead and work with their energy that day to capture their big personalities. When you look back at your photos with your children and grandchildren 30 years from now, you will remember them just as they were. All I need you to do is relax, have fun, focus on your babies and enjoy the moment!

Designed for sentimental and busy mothers like you

As a mother, I understand how busy life can get. That is why I created a full service, stress-free experience to help guide you seamlessly from start to finish. I take care of:

  • Your wardrobe
  • Professional hair and makeup
  • Selecting the perfect location
  • How to prepare your family
  • Designing artwork to be displayed in your home
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RESERVE YOUR SESSION

An Easy and Effortless Luxury Full Service Experience

Imagine approaching your session with every detail already thoughtfully handled. No last minute scrambling for outfits because it is already planned together ahead of time. On the day of your session, professional hair and makeup comes to you, allowing you to relax (feed your newborn) in the comfort of your home. After your session, I will guide you in selecting timeless artwork that you value and feels at home in your space. It is a full-service approach created for busy mothers, allowing you to be present, feel cared for and enjoy this meaningful season.

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