We were lucky to catch up with Parish Mandhan recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Parish thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. I’m sure there have been days where the challenges of being an artist or creative force you to think about what it would be like to just have a regular job. When’s the last time you felt that way? Did you have any insights from the experience?

I’ve never been happier than I am now, being an artist and doing what I love every single day. Working for myself is an incredible feeling, it’s empowering, fulfilling, and allows me to channel my creativity without constraints. However, it’s important to acknowledge that the path of a creative is far from easy. Making a living as an artist can be challenging, and finding your place in the industry takes time and perseverance. But the journey is absolutely worth it, no matter how long it takes.

The last time I thought about taking a regular full time job was a few months ago. It was during a rough patch in the business, where things weren’t going as planned, and I found myself questioning my choices. Those were tough days, filled with doubt and uncertainty. But those moments also taught me valuable lessons. They pushed me to dig deeper, to reassess my approach, and most importantly, to return to my art with even greater determination.

In the end, those challenging days served as a reminder of why I chose this path in the first place. The struggles are part of the process, and they ultimately make the successes that much more meaningful. It’s in those low moments that you find the strength to keep going, to create with renewed passion, and to continue building something that is uniquely your own.

Parish, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

My name is Parish Mandhan, an internationally published photographer and filmmaker with roots in Indore, India. My journey into the world of photography began at the young age of 13, when I first picked up a camera to capture the essence of my friends and family. What started as a passion quickly grew into a lifelong commitment to the art of visual storytelling.

After honing my skills in my hometown, I moved to Mumbai, where I had the privilege of assisting the renowned celebrity photographer Ronny Sequeira. Those two years under Ronny’s mentorship were transformative, deepening my understanding of the craft and setting the stage for the next chapter of my career. Driven by a desire to explore new challenges and broaden my horizons, I made a bold move to New York City.

In New York, my work has garnered international recognition, with my photography and films being published in prestigious magazines such as Style Cruze, G Maro, Malvie, Moievir, and Imirage Magazine. I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with some incredible clients, including global brands like Adidas, Balaji Film Production, Columbia Law School, Vivienne Hu, and Sunanda Kumar.

What sets me apart as an artist is not just my technical skill, but my deep commitment to capturing the unique essence of every subject I work with. Whether I’m photographing a high-energy fashion show or a quiet moment at a corporate event, my goal is to create images that resonate on an emotional level and tell a compelling story.

One of the things I’m most proud of is the versatility of my work. I’ve had the chance to work on a wide range of projects, from high-profile fashion shoots to intimate personal portraits. Each project presents a new challenge and an opportunity to push the boundaries of my creativity.

For potential clients, followers, or fans, I want you to know that my work is driven by a passion for storytelling and a relentless pursuit of excellence. I believe that every project, no matter how big or small, deserves the same level of dedication and care. My mission is to create work that not only meets your expectations but exceeds them, leaving a lasting impact.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?

Yes, there are definitely aspects of being a creative that non-creatives often misunderstand. One common misconception, is that being a photographer is a “sexy” or easy job just a matter of pressing a button on a camera. But the reality is far more complex. If becoming a photographer were as simple as pressing a button, then everyone would be a photographer.

Photography is much more than just hitting a button; it’s about expressing yourself and your thoughts, showing the world how you see certain things and why you see them that way. It requires a deep understanding of light, composition, and timing, as well as an ability to capture emotions and tell a story through images. Every photograph is a reflection of the photographer’s unique perspective and creative vision.

Beyond the technical aspects, being a successful photographer also involves having a strong and approachable personality. You need to be social, confident, and not afraid to engage with people. Every day as a photographer is different, and every situation presents new challenges. There are moments when you might find yourself directing 50 people at once, coordinating them to create the perfect shot. It’s in these moments that you realize just how demanding and multifaceted this profession is.

Being a photographer isn’t just about the technical skills; it’s about creativity, leadership, and the ability to connect with people on a personal level. It’s a profession that requires constant learning, adaptability, and a genuine passion for the craft. This is what many non-creatives might not fully grasp, but it’s also what makes this journey so incredibly rewarding.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist is waking up every day with a sense of excitement and purpose, knowing that I get to do what I love. When you truly love what you’re doing, nothing can hold you back. All you can think about is how to improve, grow, and evolve in your craft. This passion drives you to work long hours, often dedicating yourself fully to your art. While it can be demanding, the fulfillment that comes from pursuing your passion and seeing your work come to life makes it all worth it. There’s no greater reward than knowing that you’re constantly pushing your boundaries and creating something that truly resonates with you and others.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.parishmandhan.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parishmandhan/
• Facebook: —
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/parish-mandhan-163480152/
• Twitter: —
• Youtube: —
• Yelp: —
• Soundcloud: —
• Other: —

Image Credits

First Photo
Model: @peggyduncan
Stylist: @msmanthey
Makeup: @icmakeuppro
Hair: @cristo_styles
Cinematography: @kaushalyapatel_
Camera Assist: @saikrishna.gunti

Second Photo
Model : Tiffany Treadwell

Third Photo :
Model : Sam Gray

Fourth Photo
Model : @han.kelleher
Stylist : @kickitwiththeking
Makeup : @jacktmakeup
Hair : @glamour.by.maya
Photo Assist: @vb_tasweer

Fifth Photo
Model : @tianyinyc
Stylist : @styledbynikolett
Makeup: @jacktmakeup

Sixth Photo
Model : @isabelswanson
Make up : @karimeor.makeup
Styling: @kashareavis