Meet Mandi Roach | Documentary Wedding Photographer

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

Hi Mandi, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
When I was young, I would spend hours sitting on the floor looking through stacks of photo albums. I found that the photos transported me to a time and place that I had never been. To younger versions of those, I knew and loved. I would study those images and notice patterns, textures, colors, light, but most importantly, emotions and expressions.

In high school, I took all the elective art classes that I could. Unbeknownst to me at the time, I was a really troubled kid, and I believe art lent itself to my healing since I lacked the vocabulary to express the emotions of my childhood trauma. Inadvertently, I ended up in a photojournalism class my junior year, and my time spent capturing moments and developing film shaped my life in a way I never imagined.

In 2000, I invested in my first DSLR, a Nikon D90, so that I could get incredible images of my first child. I did not want to miss a single moment!

Eventually, I started taking portraits for friends and friends of friends, and became fascinated with being able to capture more than just a photo, but something that gave off a feeling, a vibe, told someone’s story or captured the essence of a moment. Things gradually picked up as I shared my work and I started shooting more and more. I started marketing myself as a family and newborn photographer in 2014. and had absolutely zero intentions of photographing weddings. The pressure of shooting weddings was something I would happily leave to other people. So imagine my surprise, just a few months later, when my very first wedding clients came knocking on my door. I’d been recommended to them by a mutual friend. They were planning their wedding in a short timeframe, had a tiny budget and were happy to trust me to capture their day.

Every day I THANK GOD that I managed to do that without completely making a mess of their images.
Although I didn’t realize it at the time, I was woefully unprepared to be a wedding photographer. I had an amateur level camera, a kit lens and a cheap 50mm, one flash gun and absolutely no idea how to use it and literally no idea what a wedding day entailed for a wedding photographer. Let me emphasize this again – I was very, very fortunate that everything went to plan, that it didn’t rain, and that my couple are lovely and easygoing. After that very first wedding I was hooked — I knew weddings were where I wanted to be and from that moment on I concentrated all my efforts into building my wedding photography business.

Fast forward to today, there are few things that bring me more joy than serving couples and weddings. I’d be lying if I said I didn’t cry when the mother helps her daughter put on her wedding gown, when the father first sees his daughter as a bride, when the bride and groom read their personal vows, or when toasts are given at the reception. It’s not just a transaction for me; I am personally and emotionally invested in each of my clients. To put it plainly, I work my butt off because I believe that couples deserve THE BEST on their wedding day, and I’m not willing to give anything less!

Looking back on the journey, it’s so obvious how God perfectly weaved my life into exactly what I needed. I never would have had the courage or the vision to have pursued my own photography business without God laying it in my lap the way he did. I’m not saying it wasn’t hard, but it was worth it.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I primarily focus on capturing the magic of weddings and elopements, which make up around 85% of my bookings. The remaining 15% encompasses a diverse range, including family, senior, and branding sessions.

During a wedding day, my goal is to authentically document moments as they unfold naturally. I don’t see it as just a photoshoot. Instead, it’s about encapsulating genuine emotions and the unique connection between two people without imposing artificial setups. It’s not about following trends or seeking likes on social media; it’s about honoring the authentic love that brings two individuals together.

While there are many talented photographers out there, I believe what sets me apart is my dedication to caring for my clients. Technical skills are vital, but what truly matters is how well I connect with and serve my clients. I prioritize the client experience above all else. My approach is not just about capturing stunning images; it’s about forging a bond with my couples. They’re more than clients; they become an extension of my family. I’m deeply invested in their wedding journey, offering support throughout the planning process and remaining a supportive presence long after their special day has passed.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Day 1: • Breakfast at The Breakfast Klub: Start your day with a hearty Southern breakfast featuring chicken and waffles or delicious pancakes.
• Visit the Museum District: Explore the Museum of Fine Arts Houston (MFAH) or the Houston Museum of Natural Science. These are world-class institutions with impressive collections.
• Lunch in Montrose: Head to Montrose for a diverse range of dining options, from local cafes to international cuisine.
• Discovery Green Park: Spend the afternoon at this vibrant urban park. Depending on the day, there might be events, live music, or art installations to enjoy.
• Dinner in Midtown or Downtown: Choose from the various dining options in Midtown or Downtown Houston. There are plenty of restaurants offering diverse menus.
• Catch a Show at The Theater District: If time allows, catch a performance at the renowned Theater District, which hosts ballet, opera, and Broadway shows.

Day 2:
• Brunch in the Heights: Explore one of the quaint cafes or brunch spots in the Heights area.
• 19th Street Shopping: Explore unique boutiques, antique shops, and vintage stores along 19th Street. Find quirky gifts, vintage clothing, and one-of-a-kind treasures.
• Local Markets: Check out local farmers’ markets like the Heights Mercantile Farmers Market for fresh produce and artisanal goods.
• Food and Drink: Indulge in the diverse dining options ranging from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, serving cuisines from around the world. Don’t miss spots like Coltivare, Eighteen Twenty Lounge, and Common Bond Café & Bakery.
• Live Music and Bars: Enjoy live music at various bars and venues in the neighborhood. Places like Fitzgerald’s and White Oak Music Hall offer live performances. I especially love Austin in the Heights, where my daughter tends bar.

Day 3:
• Historic Homes: Admire the beautiful architecture of historic homes and bungalows that line the streets of the Heights. Some homes offer guided tours.
• Heights Fire Station: Visit the historic Heights Fire Station, which is now a community center and offers insights into the neighborhood’s history.
• Art Galleries: Visit various art galleries showcasing local and contemporary art. Heights Art Gallery and Gspot Contemporary Art Space are popular choices.
• Street Art and Murals: Wander around the streets to discover colorful murals and street art that reflect the neighborhood’s artistic vibe.
• Buffalo Bayou Park: While not directly in the Heights, it’s nearby and offers biking, walking trails, kayaking, and beautiful views of the city skyline.
• Marmion Park: A charming spot with greenery, a gazebo, and a dog park, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
You might have spotted it on my website – that verse from Colossians 3:23? It says, ‘Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.’ That’s my mission statement in a nutshell. It’s my daily reminder that my work isn’t just about my clients; it’s my way of honoring God and His creations.

It pushes me to do my absolute best in everything I shoot, especially when capturing your wedding. I see myself as a partner with God, creating art that reflects your vision. With that mindset, I’m always striving for excellence, aiming to deliver the best experience and photos possible.

My faith and relationship with Christ are woven into everything I do – including how I work with couples. Before every wedding, I take a moment to pray for the couple, asking for blessings on their marriage and for everything to go smoothly on their big day. And every morning, I kick-start my day by diving into the Word. It’s my way of humbling myself before God, handing over my business to Him. It’s a reminder that my business isn’t about me; it’s a tool for serving others. This daily routine reignites my passion for serving wholeheartedly

Website: mandiroachphotography.com

Instagram: instagram.com/mandiroachphotography

Facebook: facebook.com/mandiroachphotography