We had the good fortune of connecting with Nicole, owner of Nicole Hartman Photo, LLC and we’ve shared our conversation below.” Thank you again so much for getting in contact with me and making this interview a reality. I’m looking forward to seeing it posted!

Hi Nicole, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I started my own business because I knew it was the next step for me on my photography path. I have been creating photographic art for over six years and will forever find thrill in being behind a camera. Being able to take one’s love and make it a career is a rare opportunity. The creation of my business has made me feel more empowered and on track with my photography.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Art has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. My family has always been submerged in creativity, which has allowed me to explore my artistic side. I was given a Cinderella-themed point-and-shoot camera for Christmas when I was only five. My parents told me I could never stop taking photos. Throughout middle school, I made a photography Instagram and started to discover how much I really loved taking photos. When I was about to start high school I was gifted my first DSLR Canon Rebel XS camera. I used this camera for everything and started taking photography classes. After graduating, I was trying to figure out whether I wanted to go to college or even where my life would take me. After reflection, I realized how sad I would be if I wasn’t going to be taking photos anymore. When I said this to my dad, he asked me why do you have to stop? He helped me explore different career paths which eventually led me to a commercial photography degree. Ever since I feel my passion has taken off. I started getting into galleries, got hired for my first job in photography, saw what the field is like, and now have a business in just over a year. I have also developed my style and realized I love to shoot multiple types of photography. Although my peers were niched into one kind of photography, I found my niche was the way I shoot. My youthful and moody style sets my work apart. It has been amazing seeing how far I can push myself and realize I could really make it in this field. Although it’s cheesy, you should always follow your dreams. I came close to straying from mine, and it would’ve been my biggest mistake.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Although Colorado is known for its outdoorsy sports and winter months, my favorite places to go are best during summer. The Denver Art Museum is a must when visiting. With over 70,000 different kinds of work, it could easily be a day-long event. Other landmarks are of course Red Rocks Amphitheater to catch a concert or to have a photoshoot. I also love being in the RiNo Art District. It is a space covered in different graffiti and makes a great location for walking around and discovering new art. Another place would be Historic Downtown Littleton. There are several cute boutiques and eateries that make it a great place to walk around and enjoy the day.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My high school photography teacher Megan Kling always pushed me to create and try new things. Without her encouragement, I wouldn’t have won awards like second place for Photoshop editing in the State of Colorado Photography Competition. Although I thought my work wasn’t good enough, she entered me in the competition anyway and it was the highest award I had ever received. It inspired me to enter my work into more galleries and continue photography throughout all of high school. An additional person that has helped me is Trish Sangelo. She was one of my professors that has helped me develop my skills, and ultimately aided me in getting into the fooLPRoof Contemporary Art gallery in the RiNo Art District located in Denver, Colorado. Another great person that deserves recognition is my college professor Brad Bartholomew. Since starting my commercial photography degree, Brad has continued to support and challenge me in the best ways possible. He goes out of his way to take care of all his students and has made my experience at school worth it. He has found me multiple job opportunities, introduced me to future clients, and overall wishes me the best of success. I am so glad I met him and have had his help throughout my photography path.

Website: www.nicolehartmanphoto.com

Instagram: @nicole_hartman_photo

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-hartman-photo-llc

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