Mariana Pierce

Mariana Pierce looks to draw viewers in by telling a story with color, strong composition and raw moments of emotion. In her thirties, Pierce made the career change to wedding photographer and hasn’t looked back, saying photographing clients brings her unparalleled joy in life. “Wedding photography has taught me to be humble, respectful, observant and empathetic in every way.”

Pierce also lends some advice to other photographers in her industry: “Being true to yourself is the best thing a wedding photographer can do. If you are Mexican and your background is ringing church bells and long family tables with too many relatives, if you were surrounded by vibrant colors, loud laughter and intricate indigenous patterns—your style will reflect that. And you cannot mute the colors, silence the bells or change your style to fit another one. Wherever in the world you may shoot a wedding, your style will come through.”

Check out the official announcement of this year’s 30 Rising Stars of Wedding Photography, along with the editors’ observations on the list of 2021.