As we wrap Season 1 of Artist Date, we’re closing out with a deeply grounding and thoughtful conversation with Calgary-based photographer, writer, and creative entrepreneur Jonathan Zoeteman. A Canon ambassador and co-founder of the creative community Socality and House A31, Jonathan shares insights on burnout, creative flow, and why the long game matters more than ever in our fast-paced world. In this episode, Nicole and Jonathan dive into how staying connected to curiosity, rest, and rhythm can help us avoid burnout and build more meaningful creative lives. From his first photo of a future NHL goalie to hosting large-scale community events with Canon, Jonathan’s journey is a testament to following your passion, building community, and staying true to yourself—without rushing the process. What to Expect: Jonathan’s early beginnings in photography and creative community building The origin and evolution of Socality and the power of in-person creative experiences Reflections on burnout, sustainability, and building “recovery systems” as a creative Writing on Substack and using personal reflections as creative practice The difference between creative output for validation vs. curiosity Becoming a Canon ambassador and the value of loyalty and long-term vision Why the “slow burn” is often the most rewarding path Key Quotes: “What are the things we need to do in life that bring us back into the flow, keep us in that river—which is where we're most creative, where we're most aligned?” “Photography found me. I never said I wanted to be a photographer. But looking back, I realize the signs were always there.” “You can’t live a meaningful creative life long-term without solving your own problems first.” “Creativity isn’t rocket science. It’s showing up, making something, shipping it—and doing it again.” Connect with Jonathan: Instagram: @jonathanzoeteman Substack: @jonathanzoeteman Socality Events: @socality Stay Connected Want more conversations like this in your inbox?📬 Sign up for the Artist Date Newsletter: Artist Date Newsletter Sign Up 📸 Follow us on Instagram: @artistdatepodcast Thank you for joining us for Season 1! We’ll be back in September with a brand new season full of honest conversations, creative truth-telling, and stories to inspire your next big leap. Until then, take time to rest, refill your creative well—and maybe even go on a few artist dates of your own.

Today on Artist Date, I’m joined by Seattle-based family photographer Gabriella Iazzetti—a storyteller with a laid-back, editorial eye and a deep love for documenting honest connection. Originally from Brazil, Gabby opens up about her journey as an immigrant and how motherhood inspired her to turn her lifelong love of photography into a thriving business in the U.S. We dive into the power of embracing imperfection during family sessions, how she builds trust with clients, and her approach to capturing emotion through film, Polaroids, and minimal direction. Gabby also shares how her background in advertising and photojournalism continues to shape her intuitive and emotion-first workflow. Whether you're a family photographer looking to refine your client experience or someone who loves slow, thoughtful conversations about art, this one is full of wisdom and warmth. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN: Why Gabby leans into imperfection and spontaneity in her sessions How her son taught her to let go of “perfect” and embrace the moment Practical ways she supports families during shoots, including wardrobe and location guidance Her film photography process (and favorite Polaroid camera!) The transition from agency life in Brazil to creative entrepreneurship in the U.S. Why she believes photographers should stop copying others and start connecting more deeply KEY QUOTES: “My son taught me to take pressure off kids and just let them be.”“Sometimes the photo tells you it needs to be black and white.”“I want families to feel like they don’t have to perform. I want them to just be.”“The best photos happen when clients feel calm and connected—not when they’re trying to pose perfectly.” CONNECT WITH GABBY:📸 Instagram: @iazzetti.photos🌐 Website: www.iazzettiphotos.com MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Speedy Photo Lab (Seattle) Sony A7IV with 24-50mm lens Vintage Polaroid cameras from eBay Phil Chester Presets (Daydreamer + Editorial Pack) CALL TO ACTION:Loved this episode? Be sure to subscribe, rate, and leave a review to help more creatives discover the Artist Date Podcast. Follow along on Instagram @artistdatepodcast for behind-the-scenes content and weekly episode drops. New episodes every Tuesday!

In this episode of Artist Date, I’m joined by Adam Reiland, a Regina-based photographer who has made the leap from weddings and portraits into the world of commercial photography. We talk about the quiet pivot moments that often happen behind the scenes—the shoots that reignite your spark, the risks you take when you decide to shift your focus, and the inner permission you have to give yourself to evolve. If you’re a photographer considering a pivot into commercial work—or just craving a deeper creative connection to what you do—this is a must-listen. Key Quotes: “That one shoot cracked something open—it felt like I had finally created something that looked like what I wanted to be doing.”“There’s a difference between work that pays and work that pushes you forward. I’m learning to make room for both.”“You can’t step into a new chapter if you’re still clinging to the one that’s no longer serving you.” What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How Adam made the transition from portraits and weddings to commercial/editorial photography What to pay attention to when you're craving a shift in your career Why making space for creative projects can open doors to new opportunities How to overcome the fear of inconsistency when your style or niche begins to shift Lessons from working with brands and the importance of saying no to the wrong work Connect with Adam:Instagram: @adam_reiland_photographyWebsite: https://www.adamreiland.com/ Connect with Nicole:   Instagram: @artistdatepodcast and @nicoleromanoffphoto Join the Artist Date Community:Enjoyed the episode? If you loved this conversation, please subscribe to Artist Date, leave a review, and share this episode with your fellow creatives! The next episode drops on Tuesday, June 3rd at 12:00 a.m. CST. Don’t forget to sign up for the weekly newsletter for exclusive content and be the first to learn about the latest episodes! Organize your creative business with the tool I swear by – get 30% off HoneyBook at nicoleloveshoneybook.com

In this heartwarming and vulnerable conversation, photographer Kass Johnson shares how she captures emotion-rich wedding days by leading with empathy, ditching rigid shot lists, and leaning into the unique energy of every couple. From the candid chaos of Super 8 film to the calming rituals that help her manage anxiety, Kass walks us through her process, mindset, and journey of growth over the last 10 years in business. You’ll walk away with a better understanding of how to trust your gut, create authentic client experiences, and build a business that supports both your passion and peace. Key Quotes:“The more pressure you put on yourself, the less joy you get to feel.”“You're photographing people's lives happening—but you have to make sure you're living yours, too.”“People don't want perfection—they want to feel something when they look at their photos.”“If I heard someone say to themselves what I say to myself, I’d tell them to stop being so hard on themselves.”“Let your thoughts go. Blank slate of mind. That’s how you shoot more creatively.” What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How Kass uses film, digital, and Super 8 to tell dynamic wedding stories The power of emotional awareness in client relationships Why she avoids copy-paste shot lists and leads with intuition instead Her exact tips for calming anxiety before a shoot How hiring an assistant changed everything for her business and mental health The subtle magic of observing people and letting the moment unfold Connect with Kass:Instagram: @kassdonaldsonWebsite: kassandradonaldson.com Join the Artist Date Community:Want more creative inspiration in your inbox? Be the first to know about new episodes, tools, and resources for photographers and creatives. Sign up here! https://nicoleromanoff.myflodesk.com/artist-date-podcast-signup Organize your creative business with the tool I swear by – get 30% off HoneyBook at nicoleloveshoneybook.com

There’s no one way to build a creative career—and this week’s guest proves that beautifully. On this episode of Artist Date, host Nicole Romanoff sits down with Calgary-based architecture and interiors photographer Eymeric Widling, whose unconventional path into photography took him from journalism school, to the world of car culture, and eventually into designing magazine-worthy interior images. Whether you’re an emerging photographer, a creative stuck in comparison, or someone exploring your own niche, this episode is a masterclass in following your instincts and trusting your evolution—even when the path isn't linear. We explore: Why Eymeric left journalism and fell in love with image crafting over image capturing How photographing tuner cars became the perfect training ground for lighting interiors The difference between shooting for architects, builders, and interior designers His exact tools, tilt-shift lenses, and behind-the-scenes editing process Why he avoids trends, sticks to what works, and chooses to slow down This isn’t just about shooting beautiful spaces—it’s about building a career that reflects who you are. Key Quotes: “There are so many different ways to get from A to Z—and the best way is probably not the one someone else took.” “I think of what I do as crafting images, not just capturing them.” “What works for someone else’s business, gear, or style doesn’t always translate. Know yourself, and build from there.” “My clients aren’t just hiring me to take a photo of a room. They’re hiring me to show how that room feels.” “Sometimes the best frame isn’t the perfect view—it’s the perfect story.” Connect with Eymeric Widling Instagram: @eymeric.widlingWebsite: eymericwidling.com Stay in the Creative Loop Get behind-the-scenes updates, creative lessons, and early access to upcoming episodes by signing up for the Artist Date newsletter: Sign Up Here! Follow along on Instagram at @artistdatepodcast Artist Date is available wherever you get your podcasts. If this episode inspired you, forward it to a friend or creative peer—it’s a reminder that there’s no formula, just your own unique way forward.  

In this episode of Artist Date, I'm joined by Calgary-based fashion photographer Eluvier Acosta—co-founder of Mass Studios and a rising force in editorial photography, with features in L’Officiel, Schon, and campaigns for brands like Hillberg & Berk. Eluvier’s journey into the world of fashion photography didn’t follow the traditional path—and that’s exactly what makes his story so powerful. From washing dishes after a layoff to landing features in major magazines, he shares what it really takes to build a career without connections, big budgets, or shortcuts. We dive deep into how to pitch editorials, create work that stands out, build a community around your craft, and stay true to your vision—even when the industry feels impossible to break into. If you're a photographer dreaming of seeing your name in print, building a studio, or simply wondering if you have what it takes, this episode will remind you: you don't have to rush, copy trends, or wait for permission. You just have to start. In this episode, you’ll learn: How Eluvier transitioned from the oil and gas industry to editorial fashion photography Why collaboration and community are key to sustainable creative growth The real strategy behind pitching to magazines (and why rejections are part of the process) How to create authentic editorials that resonate with editors Why slow growth builds stronger careers—and how to trust your own timing The story behind building Mass Studios into a creative hub for photographers in Calgary Key Quotes: “Most of the time, it’s not about being the best. It’s about being brave enough to hit send.” “You don’t always need to create a persona—sometimes you just need to make your subject feel seen.” “Success isn’t a sprint—it’s a slow bloom. You water the seeds, you show up, and eventually the right people will find you.” “The moment you try to do it all yourself is the moment the quality of your work suffers. Let people shine at what they do best.” “We’re so obsessed with rushing success, we forget why we started creating in the first place.” Follow Eluvier Acosta:Instagram: @eluvieracostaWebsite: eluvieracosta.com Book Mass Studios:Studio Website: massstudiosintl.com Stay Connected: Follow @artistdatepodcast on Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments, guest quotes, and creative inspiration. Want more? Sign up for the Artist Date newsletter to get episode drops, resources, and creative insights delivered straight to your inbox. Save 30% off on HoneyBook:www.nicoleloveshoneybook.com

Signup for a Flodesk trial and save 50%: nicolelovesflodesk.com Toronto-based dance photographer Aidan Tooth never set out to go viral — but after picking up a camera during the pandemic, she grew a TikTok following of over 35,000 and racked up more than 2 million views on her creative dance photography videos. That online visibility opened major real-world doors, landing her partnerships with brands like Samsung and helping her carve out her own standout space in the competitive world of dance photography. In this inspiring conversation, we dive into how Aidan transitioned from dancer to photographer, how she built her audience from scratch, and the lessons she learned about trusting herself, standing out, and turning passion into lasting opportunity.Whether you're building your photography career, growing your brand online, or navigating a creative pivot, this episode is packed with real, actionable insights. Key Moments from the Episode: (1:29) Aidan’s dance background and how the pandemic sparked her photography career (7:00) Learning photography through self-portraits during lockdown (10:42) How she directs dancers and why her dance training gives her a unique edge (18:02) How landing a brand deal with Samsung changed her career (23:30) Dance photography trends and standing out without comparison (26:38) Her editing process, favorite lighting gear, and shooting style (30:26) Struggles with imposter syndrome, burnout, and setting boundaries (34:50) Going viral on TikTok and the unexpected impact on her career (38:10) Aidan’s top advice for creatives just starting out (39:06) Her vision for the future and exploring new creative directions   Favorite Quotes: "Photography was always something I wanted to do, but I never had the time to dive into it — until the world stopped." "Every shoot teaches you something new — the key is just to keep showing up." "Being comfortable in front of the camera is number one — you can tell when someone truly feels at ease." "You don't need to reinvent the wheel. If it’s working and it feels like you, keep going." "Saying no has been one of the hardest but most important things I've learned to do." Follow Aidan Tooth: Instagram: @aidan.tooth TikTok: @aidantoothphotography Website: www.aidantooth.com Follow Artist Date: Instagram: @artistdatepodcast Follow Artist Date: Sign up for the Artist Date Newsletter Call to Action: Loved this conversation?It would mean so much if you subscribed, left a review, or shared this episode with a friend who needs a little inspiration.Tag us when you listen — we love hearing what stood out to you!

Signup for a Flodesk trial and save 50%: nicolelovesflodesk.com On this episode of Artist Date, I’m joined by the brilliant and multi-talented Laura Bainborough of @laurajoyphotography, who is not only a seasoned lifestyle and commercial photographer, but also the founder of Gemini Productions — a venture dedicated to creative direction and set design. We dive into Laura’s artistic journey, including the emotional moment that pulled her toward photography, how she builds imaginative visual worlds for her clients, and the creative practices she uses to stay inspired. From commercial shoots for KY Jelly and Bootlegger to pitching fashion-forward editorial concepts, Laura shares openly about pushing past creative blocks, embracing multi-passionate pursuits, and redefining what “your style” can look like. If you've ever felt boxed in by your own aesthetic or unsure how to expand into new creative offerings, this one’s for you. IN THIS EPISODE, WE TALK ABOUT: The powerful moment that made Laura leave interior design for photography How she built her business and took the leap into full-time freelance work The difference between inspiration and imitation — and the importance of credit Why she resists “niching down” and loves working across styles and moods How her new venture, Gemini Productions, blends art direction and set design Exercises to build your creativity like a muscle What art direction really involves — and how it adds value for brands Laura’s vision for sustainable fashion campaigns and dream editorial shoots KEY MOMENTS: 00:00 – Introduction: Embracing multiple styles & following creative intuition 02:10 – Laura’s pivot from interior design to full-time photography 04:30 – A box of her grandmother’s photos that changed everything 06:45 – A humbling lesson in imitation and the power of giving credit 08:30 – Creating during COVID and unexpectedly hearing from an artist’s studio 11:00 – Why she avoids niching down and how it helps her thrive 14:00 – The pressure of having “a consistent style” on social media 17:00 – Commercial campaigns: KY Jelly, VEET, Bootlegger 20:50 – What art direction actually is — and who it’s for 24:40 – Building imaginative sets and creating visual “worlds” for brands 26:30 – Laura’s creative rituals: palette prompts & fake brand campaigns 30:00 – Nicole shares a spring-themed shoot idea inspired by their convo 32:00 – Maris Jones, Chapel Rhone sets, and creative direction goals 33:40 – Laura’s big goals for the next 5–10 years KEY QUOTES: “Some of my favorite work came from going against what I thought I needed to do.”– Laura Bainborough “Creativity is a muscle. You have to keep exercising it, even when inspiration is low.”– Laura Bainborough “If the idea started in my brain, I can probably execute it more clearly too.”– Laura Bainborough “Just because you don’t fit in one box doesn’t mean you’re not an artist. You might just be multi-passionate.”– Nicole Romanoff CONNECT WITH LAURA: @laurajoyphotography @gemini_productions FOLLOW NICOLE AND THE PODCAST: @nicoleromanoffphoto @artistdatepodcast SIGN UP FOR THE PODCAST NEWSLETTER: Be the first to know when an episode drops  If this episode sparked something in you, share it with a fellow creative or leave a review — it helps more photographers and artists discover the show. Thanks for listening, and as always: stay curious and follow your creative instincts.

Signup for a Flodesk trial and save 50%: nicolelovesflodesk.com In this episode of Artist Date, I’m joined by Toronto-based branding photographer Shannon Willis—a true expert when it comes to crafting meaningful, story-driven brand imagery. Shannon gets real about her journey from corporate life to full-time photography, what it actually means to be a branding photographer, and the thoughtful process she brings to every shoot. She dives deep into how she creates an intentional, supportive experience for her clients—from pre-shoot discovery calls to personalized playlists and editing workflows using tools like Capture One, Evoto, and Photoshop. We also talk about imposter syndrome, trusting your instincts, and why niching down might be the biggest gift you can give your creative business. Whether you're a photographer, a creative entrepreneur, or someone who wants to show up more confidently in your work—this episode is full of insights that will leave you feeling inspired and ready to elevate your brand. What You’ll Learn: How Shannon transitioned from the corporate world to full-time photography Why niching down in your business creates clarity (and attracts dream clients) Her intentional branding shoot process—from first call to final delivery The tools she swears by to edit quickly and beautifully How she builds deep trust with clients (and why referrals fuel her business) Why your personality is your superpower as a creative  Favorite Quotes: “Branding is about every sense—sight, sound, even smell. It’s the full experience.”   “It’s not about the perfect pose. It’s about making people feel seen.”   “You have to show what you want to be hired for. If you're dreaming of branding work, go create it.”    “I’m not here to slap a preset on and call it a day. Everything I do is intentional.” Let’s Stay Connected! ✨ Follow Shannon on Instagram: @shannonwillis.ca   🎙 Follow the podcast for more inspiring convos: @artistdatepodcast 📸 Hang out with me on Instagram: @nicoleromanoffphoto   Loved this episode? Share it to your stories, tag us, and leave a review to help more creatives discover the show!

Signup for a Flodesk trial and save 50%: nicolelovesflodesk.com In this international episode of Artist Date, Nicole sits down with the wildly talented Joyce Charat, a French-born, LA-based fashion and beauty photographer making serious waves in the commercial and editorial world.   Together, they dive into: Joyce’s journey from skateboarding videographer to full-time fashion photographer   How she transitioned from film school to discovering a love for Photoshop   The highs and lows of pitching major clients (and how to do it well)   Her lighting preferences, favorite modifiers, and go-to gear   Building a portfolio that aligns with your dream clients   The real talk on pricing, licensing, and quoting commercial jobs   Her jaw-dropping shoot with a giraffe in Kenya (yes, really)   Why she believes every photographer should be doing test shoots   Editing, retouching, and what makes or breaks an image in post   Staying creatively inspired, avoiding burnout, and what’s next for her career Whether you're dreaming of shooting fashion, refining your lighting skills, or figuring out how to land those top-tier clients, this conversation is packed with wisdom, transparency, and inspiration.   Follow Joyce Charat:   Instagram: @joycevisuals Website: joycecharat.com    Love this episode? Share it on social and tag us @artistdatepodcast + @nicoleromanoffphoto to let us know your biggest takeaway.

Signup for a Flodesk trial and save 50%: nicolelovesflodesk.com Emma Brown of Emma Victoria Photography joins me to chat about creating timeless, candid images, shooting 30 weddings a year while raising a little one, and her take on trends like off-camera flash and the film resurgence. We also dive into the balance between posing and prompting, how she stays inspired, and the challenges of running a photography business solo.   Highlights include:   Emma’s laid-back lifestyle and newborn session approach   Her gear of choice and favorite lenses   Thoughts on second shooters and client relationships   Where she finds inspiration and what she’s working toward next 👉 Follow Emma: @emmavictoria.photo  🌐 Visit: emmavictoriaphotography.com   🛠️ Tools we love:   Use my affiliate links to get exclusive deals:   HoneyBook – the CRM that saves your sanity  Repurpose.IO – the easiest way to post content across every platform   📬 Stay connected!   Follow [@nicoleromanoffphoto](https://www.instagram.com/nicoleromanoffphoto) and [@artistdatepodcast](https://www.instagram.com/artistdatepodcast)   Sign up for the weekly newsletter: Here!

In this episode of Artist Date, host Nicole Romanoff sits down with journalist and wedding videographer Laura Woodward for a conversation about storytelling, balancing multiple careers, and finding her unique style in videography. From shooting her first wedding with a CTV broadcast camera to filming over 100 weddings, Laura shares insights on creativity, trends, and what truly makes a compelling story—whether it’s a news report or a wedding film.

Signup for a Flodesk trial and save 50%: nicolelovesflodesk.com In this episode of Artist Date, host Nicole Romanoff sits down with filmmaker and photographer Aaron Sinclair to discuss his creative journey from music to filmmaking, the challenges of independent film production, and his latest feature film, The Wild. Aaron shares insights into the filmmaking process, the difference between cinematography and videography, and how storytelling through visuals and music continues to shape his work.   They also dive into the intricacies of editing, directing, and navigating film festivals, along with the creative highs and inevitable struggles of bringing a project to life. Whether you're a filmmaker, photographer, or simply a lover of cinema, this episode is packed with valuable insights and inspiration.   Key Moments & Takeaways: - (00:00) Introducing Aaron Sinclair: The first filmmaker to appear on Artist Date, Aaron talks about his creative background and how he transitioned from music into film. - (02:27) Cinematography vs. Videography: Aaron breaks down the differences and why the term "cinematic photography" is a bit of a misnomer. - (09:31) From Music to Film: How Aaron’s love for music and sound design influenced his approach to filmmaking. - (17:26) Film Inspirations: Aaron reflects on how Mulholland Drive and other abstract films influenced his visual storytelling. - (22:18) Writing The Wild: How a short film concept evolved into a full-length feature, written in just one week. - (31:45) The Challenges of Indie Filmmaking: Wearing multiple hats in production, editing, and promotion. - (40:57) The Film Festival Circuit: What it takes to get an independent film into major festivals and the challenges of breaking into the industry. - (55:29) What’s Next? Aaron talks about his next feature film and the future of his filmmaking career.   Memorable Quotes: “Cinematography is about creating a world within the frame.” “The hardest part of directing is realizing the more hats you wear, the less directing you actually do.” “Writing The Wild came in a flow state—it was one of those rare times where the story just poured out.” “If you want to make films, just start. You have to be bad at it first.”   Where to Watch & Connect with Aaron: Watch The Wild: thewildmovie.ca Instagram: @aaronsinclair.film Website: aaronsinclairfilm.com   Enjoyed the episode? If you loved this conversation, please subscribe to Artist Date, leave a review, and share this episode with your fellow creatives! Follow Nicole on Instagram at @artistdatepodcast and @nicoleromanoffphoto

Signup for a Flodesk trial and save 50%: nicolelovesflodesk.com n this episode of Artist Date, I sit down with the incredibly talented fine art photographer, Lisa Christoffel of Lisa Catherine Photography. Lisa’s work has a timeless, editorial feel that evokes emotion and elegance. We talk about her journey into photography, her love for film, the balance of motherhood and entrepreneurship, and the process of building a luxury brand. Lisa shares her thoughts on workshops, getting published, and what’s next for her—including taking over Belle Lumière Magazine!   Key Moments & Takeaways:   Lisa’s transition into fine art photography and how she fell in love with film.   Her go-to cameras and film stocks (and why she stockpiled Fuji 400H!).   The evolution of her style and how she built a luxury photography brand.   The importance of investing in education and workshops.   Her thoughts on aging in photography and why experience is invaluable.   The reality of being a wedding photographer while balancing a family.   Her approach to editorial and commercial work.   The big news: Lisa is taking over Bellumiere Magazine!   Memorable Quotes:   "You want to share what you want to keep shooting and you want to shoot what you love."  "If you don’t believe in yourself, who will? You just have to go for it. The worst case is a no—but if you don’t try, you’ll never know."  "Experience is priceless. The ability to anticipate moments and know what’s going to happen before it happens is something that comes with time."    Where to Find Lisa Christoffel:   - Website: lisacatherinephotography.com   - Instagram: @lisacatherinephoto - Bellumiere Magazine: Stay tuned for updates on Lisa’s new role!    Connect with Artist Date Podcast:   - Instagram: @nicoleromanoffphoto @artistdatepodcast - Subscribe & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a rating—it helps more creatives discover the show!      New episodes drop every Tuesday. Thanks for tuning in!  

Signup for a Flodesk trial and save 50%: nicolelovesflodesk.com What if your most imperfect photo was your most powerful one?     In this inspiring episode of Artist Date, Nicole sits down with Claire, the creative force behind Doxa Photography, to dive deep into the magic of embracing imperfection in art. Known for her emotionally rich wedding and family photography—shot primarily on film—Claire shares how burnout led her to rediscover joy, curiosity, and creativity through analog photography.     This conversation touches on vulnerability, chasing connection over perfection, and finding beauty in everyday moments. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just beginning your creative journey, Claire’s insights will inspire you to let go of fear, embrace the flaws, and create from a place of authenticity and heart.     Highlight Reel: Must-Listen Moments   (04:36) — How burnout led Claire to fall back in love with photography through film.   (13:59) — Embracing imperfection: Why your "mistakes" can make your art stronger.   (25:48) — Claire’s strategy for landing international gigs through simple outreach.   (36:46) — Capturing raw, unposed family moments that feel real and intimate.   (52:51) — Hosting creative retreats that focus on rest, art, and community.     What You'll Learn:   - Claire’s journey from hobbyist to full-time photographer   - How embracing imperfection reignites creative passion   - Practical tips for incorporating film photography into weddings   - Building genuine client connections through vulnerability and trust   - Strategies for staying creatively fulfilled outside of client work   - The importance of rest and retreat for long-term creative growth     Memorable Quotes:    "The best photograph is the one that you took. Sometimes there isn’t a chance to go back." – Claire    "If you’re afraid you’re not good enough, get better. Practice. You are capable of so much more than you think." – Claire    "I want to capture the kind of photo you can smell, taste, and feel—one that truly brings you back to the moment." – Claire     Connect with Claire:   Instagram: @doxaphotography  Website: www.doxaphotography.com   Connect with Nicole:   Instagram: @nicoleromanoffphoto @artistdatepodcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@nicoleromanoff Website: www.nicoleromanoff.com and www.artistdatepodcast.com

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of the Artist Date Podcast, host Nicole Romanoff sits down with lifestyle and wedding photographer Delaney Denham for an intimate conversation that weaves through creativity, vulnerability, and the unexpected paths life takes us on. Delaney shares her journey from pursuing healthcare to finding her true calling behind the lens. The two dive into the challenges of being a single creative while capturing love stories, the magic of travel photography, and how embracing vulnerability has shaped Delaney’s art and life. Get ready for laughter, personal reflections, and actionable insights for every creative soul.

Signup for a Flodesk trial and save 50%: nicolelovesflodesk.com In this episode of Artist Date with Nicole Romanoff, we sit down with Carey Shaw, a talented photographer and emerging filmmaker with a unique perspective on storytelling through imagery. We dive deep into the creative process, the struggle to balance personal projects with paying work, and the ongoing challenge of setting boundaries as an artist.    From her beginnings in pinhole photography to documenting art exhibitions and tackling editorial work that often doesn’t pay but fuels the passion, this conversation is a must-listen for photographers and creatives navigating their artistic journey.   What You’ll Learn in This Episode:  How Carey Shaw transitioned from fine arts studies to a full-time career in photography. The challenge of balancing commercial work with personal creative projects. Why setting boundaries with clients is crucial for long-term success. The impact of social media on self-image and how it affects portrait photography. Technical insights into documenting art exhibitions and shooting in challenging lighting conditions. The reality of editorial photography and why it’s often a passion project rather than a money-maker. The importance of passive income streams like stock photography. Why embracing your unique artistic style is key to attracting the right clients.   Quotes to Remember: 📸 “The work that inspires us is what attracts the paying work." – Nicole Romanoff 📸 “Shooting what you love will always shine through in your work." – Carey Shaw 📸 "It’s okay to say no. And sometimes, saying no is the most powerful thing you can do." – Carey Shaw   Links & Resources: 📍 Check out Carey Shaw’s portfolio: careyshaw.com 📍 Follow Carey Shaw on Instagram: @careyshaw 📍 Learn more about stock photography with Stocksy: https://www.stocksy.com 📍 Connect with Nicole on Instagram: @nicoleromanoffphoto 📍 Follow Artist Date on Instagram: @artistdatepodcast Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a fellow creative!    This podcast was recorded and edited by S.J. Kardash of Full Color Studios in White Space Studios.

Signup for a Flodesk trial and save 50%: nicolelovesflodesk.com In this episode of Artist Date, I'm joined by my longtime friend and incredibly talented photographer, Tonya Wanner. We dive deep into her journey from working as an insurance broker to becoming a sought-after dance photographer, capturing the essence of dancers in a way that sets her apart in the industry.  Inside This Episode: Tonya’s unexpected transition into photography while on maternity leave The pivotal moment that led her to focus on dance photography How she found her unique style capturing dancers in the in-between moments The power of saying “yes” early on and how she learned to set boundaries The importance of lighting and how it shapes the art of dance photography Her experience learning from world-renowned dance photographers at the Pada de Dance Conference The growth of her business and the evolution of her team Overcoming physical challenges and pivoting her approach to shooting What’s next for Tonya, including mentoring other photographers and expanding her reach  Key Takeaways: Follow Your Instincts: Tonya shares how listening to her gut led her to make bold career moves that ultimately shaped her success. Embrace Change: From switching careers to adapting after an injury, she proves that growth often comes from the most unexpected places. Collaboration Over Competition: The power of community, mentorship, and trusting the right people in your industry.  Key Quotes from Tonya: "I wasn’t looking for the perfect jump or pose—I was drawn to the in-between moments that told the real story of the dancer." "Stepping into the unknown is terrifying, but it’s where all the magic happens." "Lighting isn’t just about visibility—it’s about shaping the emotion and movement in a photo." "I had to pivot, learn to let go, and trust my team—growth is never a solo journey." "The best marketing is showing the world what you’re most passionate about." Where to Find Tonya: Instagram: @TonyaWannerPhotography Listen & Subscribe: Tune in to Artist Date every Tuesday for inspiring conversations with creatives who are making waves in their industries. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts! And follow us on Instagram, @artistdatepodcast

Signup for a Flodesk trial and save 50%: nicolelovesflodesk.com In this episode of Artist Date, I sit down with Bob Deutscher, a talented food photographer based in Saskatoon. Bob shares his journey from discovering his creative side in childhood, including his early fascination with cameras and time at a fine arts school, to building a thriving career in commercial food photography. We talk about the challenges of self-teaching, the balance between artistry and craftsmanship, and the unique aspects of photographing food for brands like Co-op. Bob also dives into his creative process, from pre-shoot planning to editing, and shares valuable advice for aspiring food photographers.   What You'll Learn: How Bob transitioned into food photography and built a successful niche career The value of embracing new challenges with confidence and learning through hands-on experience. How he and his wife built a dedicated food photography studio The blend of artistry and craftsmanship in commercial photography Bob’s approach to lighting, composition, and editing in food photography The realities of working with commercial clients and delivering on their vision His dream projects and future aspirations   Memorable Quotes: “A true artist is someone who creates purely for themselves. I think of myself more as a craftsman with an artistic touch.” “Shooting food is the best kind of photography—you get to eat it afterward!” “I love the challenge of delivering a client’s vision and pushing myself beyond what I thought was possible.”   Connect with Bob Deutscher: Instagram: @bobdeutscher   Stay Connected: Follow Artist Date on Instagram: @artistdatepodcast Follow Nicole on Instagram: @nicoleromanoffphoto

In this inspiring episode of the Artist Date Podcast, Nicole sits down with Jocelyn, a talented photographer and ceramicist from Saskatoon, to dive into her creative journey spanning 15 years. From her beginnings as a hairstylist to building a thriving photography business, Jocelyn shares how she transitioned into photography during a pivotal life moment, developed her signature style, and embraced her multifaceted creative identity.