Dennis Manarchy was raised in Rockford, Illinois. He grew a love for photography at an early age and won a scholarship to Rochester Institute of Technology. Upon graduation he was fortunate to serve an apprenticeship for legendary photographer, Irving Penn. It was a highly disciplined and uncompromising environment. Penn became simultaneously a mentor due to his amazing talent and meticulous nature, and a nemesis because it took years for Dennis to break from his influence and develop his own style.

Dennis was drafted in the army in 1968. After serving as Lieutenant in the Vietnam War, he returned home disillusioned. He met a Lumbee Indian chief in a North Caroline bookstore, and after sharing his story he was invited to move in with the Tribe. Dennis spent 6 months readjusting while immersing himself in their daily life. It was a pivotal experience.