Meet Parish Mandhan | Photographer & Filmmaker

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

Hi Parish, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking.
Risk has always been a cornerstone of my photography business. I began my journey into photography at a very young age without any formal background. Choosing photography as a career was a significant gamble, given that it’s one of the most expensive hobbies to turn into a profession. Despite the challenges, my passion for photography drove me forward.

After honing my skills in my hometown of Indore, India, I took a bold step at 17 and moved to Mumbai. This was a major risk, as I knew no one in the city and had no family there. However, I saw greater opportunities and potential for growth in Mumbai. I’ve always believed that high risks yield high rewards. While this approach may not suit everyone, for me, it was always about giving it my all or nothing at all.

After a few years in Mumbai, I made another daring move to New York City. Once again, I had no contacts and knew no one. But my curiosity and willingness to take risks, coupled with following my heart, guided me. This philosophy has consistently led me in the right direction, opening doors to opportunities I could have never imagined.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art is deeply rooted in capturing the essence of human emotion and the beauty of natural light. What sets my work apart is my dedication to creating images that not only tell a story but also evoke a sense of wonder and connection. Whether it’s a portrait captured during the golden hour at Coney Island Beach or a candid moment backstage at a fashion show, my goal is always to highlight the unique and compelling aspects of my subjects.

Getting to where I am today professionally has not been easy. My journey started at a very young age in Indore, India, with no formal background in photography. At 17, I took a significant risk by moving to Mumbai, where I knew no one, in search of better opportunities. After gaining experience and building a portfolio, I made another bold move to New York City. Each step was filled with challenges, from financial constraints to adapting to new environments.

Overcoming these challenges required a combination of perseverance, self-belief, and a willingness to take risks. I learned the importance of being obsessed with my craft and always doing what I love. Maintaining a positive attitude, even in the face of adversity, was crucial. Taking care of my health and well-being also played a significant role in sustaining my energy and creativity.

The lessons I’ve learned along the way are invaluable. Being obsessed with my passion has driven me to constantly improve and innovate. Always doing what I love has kept me motivated and fulfilled. Staying positive has helped me navigate the ups and downs of my career. And taking care of my health has ensured that I can continue to pursue my art with vigor.

What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that I am committed to capturing the beauty and complexity of life through my photography. My journey as a photographer & filmmaker is a testament to the power of resilience, risk-taking, and unwavering dedication. Through my lens, I strive to create images that resonate deeply with people, allowing them to see the world as I see it, in all its nuanced and profound beauty.

Lastly, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Shoutout LA for providing me with this platform to share my story. It’s an honor to be recognized and to have the opportunity to reflect on the journey that has brought me to where I am today. Thank you for celebrating the people and moments that have shaped my career. Though I live in New York, my work frequently takes me back and forth between New York and Los Angeles, making this recognition by Shoutout LA particularly meaningful.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Exploring Los Angeles wouldn’t be complete without visiting Hollywood & Beverly Hills, iconic areas that offer a glimpse into the glamour of the entertainment industry. On the first day, stroll along the Hollywood Walk of Fame, take photos by the TCL Chinese Theatre, and enjoy the upscale shopping and dining in Beverly Hills.

The next day, head to the Santa Monica Pier and beach, where you can relax by the ocean, ride the Ferris wheel, and enjoy the vibrant, laid-back vibe of this coastal spot. For an unforgettable dining experience, visit Bestia in the Arts District. This renowned Italian restaurant is known for its innovative dishes and stylish ambiance, making it a perfect spot to savor a delicious meal after a day of exploring LA’s highlights.

On the third day, continue your adventure at Musso & Frank Grill, where you can immerse yourself in old Hollywood vibes while enjoying classic dishes in a historic setting.

As the day comes to a close, head to Griffith Observatory for sunset views that offer a stunning panorama of the city and the Hollywood sign, providing the perfect ending to a few days of exploring LA’s rich history and natural beauty.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I firmly believe that success is a collective effort, and I owe a significant part of my journey to the support and encouragement of others. First and foremost, I want to dedicate my shoutout to my family. Their unwavering belief in me and their constant support gave me the courage to pursue my passion for photography, even when it seemed like a risky and unconventional path.

Additionally, I would like to recognize my mentor, Juliana Thomas, whom I met in New York. Her guidance and mentorship have been instrumental in my growth as an artist. She introduced me to new perspectives and techniques that have significantly shaped my work.

I also want to give a special shoutout to my friends and colleagues in New York City. Moving to a new city without knowing anyone was daunting, but their friendship and support helped me navigate the challenges and find my footing in the industry.

Lastly, I want to acknowledge the importance of believing in myself and not losing hope during tough times. There were moments when it was difficult to survive in this competitive field, but my perseverance and self-belief kept me going. Each of these individuals and my inner resilience have played a crucial role in my journey, and I am deeply grateful for their contributions to my story.

I also want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Shoutout LA for providing me with this platform to share my story. It’s an honor to be recognized and to have the opportunity to reflect on the journey that has brought me to where I am today. Thank you for celebrating the people and moments that have shaped my career.

Website: https://www.parishmandhan.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parishmandhan/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/parish-mandhan-163480152/