Artist Date with Nicole Romanoff: Conversations on Creativity, Courage, and Photography

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.”

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:

Connect with Nicole:  

Instagram: @artistdatepodcast and @nicoleromanoffphoto

Join the Artist Date Community:

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In this heartwarming and vulnerable conversation, photographer Kass Donaldson 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:

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Connect with Kass:

Join the Artist Date Community:

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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.

“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.”

Instagram: @eymeric.widling

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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.

“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:

Book Mass Studios:

Follow @artistdatepodcast on Instagram for behind-the-scenes moments, guest quotes, and creative inspiration.

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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.

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."

Loved this conversation?

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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.

“Some of my favorite work came from going against what I thought I needed to do.”

“Creativity is a muscle. You have to keep exercising it, even when inspiration is low.”

“If the idea started in my brain, I can probably execute it more clearly too.”

“Just because you don’t fit in one box doesn’t mean you’re not an artist. You might just be multi-passionate.”

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.

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  

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

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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.

Key Points:

Travel and Destination Photography

The Emotional Power of Imagery

The Struggles of Being Single as a Photographer

Creative Growth and Breaking Out of Comfort Zones

Lessons in Self-Worth and Artistic Confidence

Standout Quotes:

Resources & Links:

Loved this episode? Share your biggest takeaway on Instagram and tag @artistdatepodcast and @delaneydenham! If Delaney’s journey inspired you, don’t forget to subscribe and leave us a review. Your support helps us keep bringing you heartfelt conversations with incredible artists.

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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:

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.

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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:

 Key Takeaways:

 Key Quotes from Tonya:

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