Artist Date

Laura Woodward: From Newsroom to Wedding films, and the Art of Storytelling

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.
 
Why Listen?
Discover how Laura balances a full-time career in journalism with running a successful wedding videography business.
Gain insight into the differences and similarities between storytelling in news and wedding films.
Learn how trends in wedding videography have evolved and why Laura embraces a more candid, upbeat style.
Hear Laura’s approach to editing, color grading, and structuring a compelling wedding film.
Get behind-the-scenes insights into working with photographers, capturing emotion, and storytelling through video.
Find out Laura’s aspirations for the future, from working on larger productions to making more self-serving creative projects.
 
Key Moments & Takeaways:
- "It’s a full-circle moment." Laura shares how she started filming weddings using a CTV news camera and how her gear has now surpassed what she once used for journalism.
- The Art of Balancing Two Careers: Laura explains why she continues to pursue both journalism and wedding videography, despite the intense workload.
- "Your first shot should be like a first date." Laura applies the principles of news storytelling to wedding videos, ensuring an engaging and emotionally compelling experience for the viewer.
- From Cookie Cutter to Unique Stories: How Laura transitioned from making slow, dramatic wedding films to a more authentic, candid, and fun storytelling approach.
- Super 8 & Trends in Videography: Why Laura started shooting Super 8 film and how she navigates industry trends while staying true to her creative style.
- "Shoot to edit." Laura’s biggest tip for videographers: think about the edit while shooting to ensure a seamless and compelling final film.
- Advice for Couples Booking a Videographer: What to look for in a wedding video and how to choose the right storyteller for your big day.
- Paris Photoshoot with Delaney: Behind the scenes of Laura’s recent creative project in Paris, working with models and capturing dreamlike footage.
 
Connect with Laura:
- Website: [lovelauravideos.com](https://lovelauravideos.com)
- Instagram: [@lovelauravideos](https://www.instagram.com/lovelauravideos)
 
Follow & Subscribe:
If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Artist Date and leave a review! Follow Nicole on Instagram at @nicoleromanoffphoto and check out more episodes featuring creatives sharing their journeys.

Aaron Sinclair: The Process of Filmmaking

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

Lisa Christoffel: The Art of Fine Art Photography

In 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!
 

Claire Friesen: Embracing Imperfection and Creativity

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

Delaney Denham: Chasing Light and Living Fully

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:
Delaney's Journey into Photography
From nursing and kinesiology studies to picking up a camera during COVID-19.
The influence of a friend who encouraged her to buy her first camera.
Travel and Destination Photography
Shooting weddings across Italy, New York, and Las Vegas.
How sharing travel photos on Pinterest unexpectedly led to international bookings.
The Emotional Power of Imagery
Delaney's approach to making photos feel cinematic and authentic.
Finding inspiration from films and capturing emotion through composition and space.
The Struggles of Being Single as a Photographer
The unique experience of photographing love stories while seeking your own.
Vulnerable moments of longing and living vicariously through clients.
"Sometimes I’m capturing the very thing I long for, and it’s both beautiful and bittersweet." – Delaney Denham
Creative Growth and Breaking Out of Comfort Zones
The importance of trying new styles, playing with lighting, and breaking creative boundaries.
Lessons from workshops and how different photographers see the same scene uniquely.
Lessons in Self-Worth and Artistic Confidence
Overcoming the pressure of social media validation.
Embracing imperfections and finding joy in the creative process.
Standout Quotes:
"Why do we need a reason to travel? You can just travel if you want to." – Delaney Denham
"I want my photos to make you feel something." – Delaney Denham
"Out of all the photographers in the world, you want me? That’s a gift." – Delaney Denham
"Being single and photographing love—sometimes you’re capturing the very thing you long for." – Delaney Denham
"Sometimes I’m capturing the very thing I long for, and it’s both beautiful and bittersweet." – Delaney Denham
"Better today than I was yesterday. Better tomorrow than I am today." – Delaney’s personal mantra
Resources & Links:
Follow Delaney on Instagram: @delaneydenham
Delaney's Website: https://www.delaneydenham.com/
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.

Carey Shaw: Finding Your Creative Balance

Episode Summary:
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.

Tonya Wanner: Finding Your Unique Voice in Dance Photography

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

Bob Deutscher: The Art & Craft of Food Photography

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

Jocelyn De Moissac: Creating Connection Through Creativity

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.  
 
They discuss the value of connection in photography, how Jocelyn balances family life with a busy career, and the lessons learned from stepping outside her comfort zone. Jocelyn also reveals her passion for creating meaningful moments, her foray into ceramics, and her thoughts on embracing creativity at every stage of life.  
 
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:  
Jocelyn’s journey from hairstyling to photography and what inspired her creative evolution.  
The importance of creating a comfortable environment for clients during shoots.  
How Jocelyn balances her roles as a photographer, ceramicist, and mom.  
The challenges of running a photography business and the lessons learned along the way.  
Why Jocelyn caps her shoots to prioritize quality over quantity.  
Her thoughts on aging as a creative and embracing personal evolution.  
Jocelyn’s experience with publishing her own magazine and what’s inside.  
 
Key Quotes:  
“I’ve learned to lean into what makes me happy and be with the people that bring joy into my life.”  
“Find your tribe. It’s so important to connect with like-minded people who inspire and uplift you.”  
“The moments you capture—whether it’s bedtime routines or a wedding day—are the little things that become the most cherished memories.”  
 
Resources Mentioned:  
Jocelyn’s Instagram: @demophotostudios
Jocelyn’s ceramics: @klae.ceramics
Jocelyn’s magazine: Available in hard copy on her website https://www.demostudios.ca/
 
Follow Nicole:
Nicole’s Instagram: @nicoleromanoffphoto
Artist Date Podcast: @artistdatepodcast
 
If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and follow Jocelyn on Instagram for more updates on her work in photography and ceramics. Don’t forget to check out her magazine for a deeper dive into her creative world!

Alicia Marie: Empowering Self-Love Through Boudoir Photography

In this episode of Artist Date, I sit down with Alicia Marie, a boudoir photographer whose work goes far beyond the camera. Alicia has built a career around empowering women to embrace their beauty, vulnerability, and individuality. From her early days as a high school teacher to creating a thriving photography business in Saskatoon, Alicia shares how she stumbled into boudoir photography and turned it into a platform for celebrating self-love.  
We discuss the challenges of working in a field that often faces societal backlash, the power of creating safe spaces for women, and how Alicia has developed her signature moody, natural-light style. Whether you're a photographer looking to break into boudoir or someone curious about the transformative power of this art form, Alicia’s insights will leave you inspired.  
What You'll Learn:  
How Alicia got her start in boudoir photography (including her very first shoot in her bedroom!)  
Why creating a safe, judgment-free space is essential in boudoir photography.  
How Alicia collaborates with her long-time makeup artist, Kelsey, to build trust and confidence with clients.  
The importance of understanding and celebrating different body types in posing.  
The role social media has played in growing her business and breaking down barriers in the boudoir industry.  
How Alicia deals with societal backlash and embraces her role as an advocate for women’s empowerment.  
Why education and mindset are crucial for photographers looking to work in boudoir.  
Resources and Mentions:  
Follow Alicia on Instagram: @aliciamphoto and @aliciamphoto_boudoir
Explore Alicia’s work on Patreon: Alicia Marie Intimate Portraits  
Makeup artistry by Kelsey Ray: @kelseyrae_mua
Connect with Nicole:  
Follow on Instagram: @nicoleromanoffphoto @artistdatepodcast
Website: www.nicoleromanoff.com
Subscribe & Review:  
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps us bring inspiring stories like Alicia’s to more creatives like you.