Today we’d like to introduce you to Mandy Otero.
Hi Mandy, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I was born and raised in Puerto Rico—Latina here! Growing up, I was always drawn to art and self-expression, which eventually led me to pursue a degree in visual arts. While I was in college, I discovered photography and instantly fell in love. The way light, color, and emotion all come together in a single frame—it just clicked for me. I ended up minoring in photography because I couldn’t get enough of it.
After college, I moved to the United States and began exploring photography more seriously. I took on different jobs, including working in theme parks, which gave me experience in fast-paced environments and helped me grow as an artist. But something deeper was calling me.
Eventually, I began traveling—and it changed everything. I spent time in New Zealand, where the landscapes were absolutely breathtaking, and later found myself in Oregon, one of my favorite places in the world. It was there, surrounded by mountains, forests, and the kind of beauty that stops you in your tracks, that I realized I wanted to become an outdoor wedding photographer.
Nature grounds me. It brings me home to myself. And combining that connection to the earth with my love for romance and storytelling felt like the most honest and beautiful path I could take. Weddings, to me, are the ultimate love story—and capturing them in wild, open spaces is more than photography. It’s art. It’s emotion. It’s connection. I feel honored every time a couple invites me into their day and trusts me to turn their love into something visual and lasting.
Eventually, I settled down in Florida, where I’ve been for the last two years. After years of traveling, I felt it was time to come back and pour all that I’d learned and experienced into serving couples here—especially those who, like me, feel most alive surrounded by nature.
That’s where I am today. Doing what I love most—creating intentional, emotional, and artistic wedding photography for couples who want more than just pictures. They want to feel something.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
No, it definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Being a business owner—especially as a photographer—means wearing so many hats. There are always things to manage, and it can feel overwhelming at times. But I’ve learned that those challenges aren’t really failures. Every time I felt like I was failing, it was actually an invitation to look at my business in a different way. It pushed me to shift my perspective and try something new.
But I’ve also learned that having a business means constantly evolving. You have to stay open-minded and be ready to ask yourself, “What’s the next step?” That’s what business is: learning how to grow and keep moving forward—probably all the way until you retire! So yes, there have been struggles. But they’ve been part of the journey. Every challenge has taught me something, and I honestly believe they were meant to be. They’re part of the road that shapes you.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m an outdoor wedding photographer who specializes in weddings for outdoorsy couples—people who feel most alive when they’re surrounded by nature. My style is known for its bold, true-to-life colors and artistic flair. I love capturing the vibrant energy of a wedding day in a way that feels both real and timeless.
My clients often tell me they love the energy I bring to their wedding day. I don’t just show up to take photos—I’m there to celebrate right alongside them. I laugh with them, dance with them, eat with them, and bring this upbeat, joyful energy that helps everyone feel relaxed and hyped at the same time. It’s like I’m one of their guests, fully present and invested in their joy.
That’s something that sets me apart. I know there are photographers who show up just to do their job, and there’s nothing wrong with that—but for me, it’s more than just a job. It’s an honor. I get to witness and capture one of the most meaningful moments in someone’s life—the moment they begin their journey as a married couple. That’s sacred to me. And I pour my heart into it every single time.
Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
One of my favorite childhood memories is tied to a beautiful tradition in Puerto Rico. There’s a belief that if you get wet in the first rain of May, you’ll become prettier—and the more years you do it, the prettier you’ll be. And let me tell you, it worked… because I’m beautiful!
Every year, my mom made sure we didn’t miss that first rain. My brother and I would run outside barefoot, racing through the neighborhood, getting soaked and laughing the whole time. We didn’t care about the mud or the puddles—we just loved it. It was such a freeing, joyful way to connect with nature. Even now, when I think about those moments, they bring me so much warmth. It’s a memory full of magic, movement, and pure happiness.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://mandystarphotography.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mandystarphotography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mandystarphotography018
- Other: https://www.pinterest.com/mandystarphotography/
Image Credits
@savjenkinz
@anthonynarducci20
@wildheron.events
@2birdsevents
@tbdjco
@femmeakoi
@cbkcatering
@delfaverooasis
@rtbweddings
@weddings_and_wellness_florida
Florist = @claudiaspearlflorist
Cake = @valhallabakery_stpete
Cellist = @lvalido_music
Make Up = @touchoftiabeauty
Food = @catheebradycatering
Venue = @hillhouseclermont
Video = @ashleykrugphotography
Minister = @weddings.by.kirk
