We had the good fortune of connecting with Nicole Domanico and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nicole, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Honestly, an extremely toxic and dehumanizing job that pushed me to burnout. I put in my notice and don’t regret it. I want to feel in control of my life and passionate about what I do. Even if I am not wildly successful, I know it will lead to more expansive opportunities. Life is too short to spend the majority of your weeks miserable and thinking small.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a portrait and lifestyle photographer located in Colorado Springs. I am most excited for introducing Tintype photography into my practice. It is something I have been working hard at understanding for the past year and a half and am finally at a place where I feel confident in my abilities and will be offering it soon!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
So this is perfect timing as I have a friend coming to visit in May! For places to eat and drink, I have listed; Monse’s Papuseria, The Burrowing Owl, Shame & Regret, 300 Days of Shine, and Ice Cave Cider House. For activities/adventure, I have listed; Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Great Sand Dunes National Park, Manitou Springs, any hot springs, and Garden of the Gods. I also have various trails listed and pre-covid, I would highly recommend a concert at Red Rocks Ampitheater.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would say my education. My first photography instructor, Art Hand at McHenry County College was an incredible teacher and really inspired me. Additionally, all of the staff at University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee’s Peck School of the Arts is amazing. They have helped me fine tune my skills and find my voice with art.

Website: www.portraitobscura.com

Instagram: instagram.com/portraitobscura

Facebook: www.facebook.com/portraitobscura

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutColorado is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.