So much has happened in the world since my last newsletter in August. I hope you find ways and time for self-care. Here’s a recap of what’s been cooking at the Curious Captures Photo studio and with me, filmmaker/photographer Nika Belianina.
Halloween
Halloween brought tons of fun and cuteness to the studio! We decked out the space with haunted decorations, dressed up in costume, and gave away candy to visitors. It was a wonderful way to connect with clients, neighbours, and our community!
Did you know that you can rent our Curious Captures studio for your photography needs? It’s affordable and easy. Just drop us a line at info@curiouscaptures.com and let’s chat.
Head On Photo Festival
Australia’s Head On Photo Festival has been running since 2004, celebrating all forms of photography. Drawing over 400,000 visitors, the festival showcases the work of more than 900 Australian and international photographers through innovative exhibitions in galleries, outdoor public spaces, cafes, and projections.
I’m thrilled to be a semi-finalist in this year’s landscape category with my work Divided by Salt, photographed on the world’s largest salt flat—Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia. Seeing this place was one of my dreams coming true, and it sure did not disappoint. This marks the premiere of my photography on the continent, though a couple of my comedy films have previously screened at Australian film festivals. Are you currently in Sydney? Be sure to check it out!
Creative Photography Workshop
My 6-week Creative Photography workshop at Workman Arts in Toronto is off to a fantastic start! Teaching this class and helping others explore the world through a creative lens has been an incredibly rewarding experience. There’s nothing like seeing people discover new ways to express themselves through photography.
For those looking to expand their creativity, I’ll be launching an online Magical Realism Masterclass soon! Treat yourself or a loved one to this journey into creativity, where you’ll gain inspiration and plenty of ideas to experiment with new techniques. Stay tuned for details or reach out via email info@curiouscaptures.com and join us to add a unique dimension to your photography journey!
At the Curious Captures studio
Recently, I had the pleasure of photographing an incredible group of musicians in the studio, capturing their unique energy and style. The highlights from the shoot: one photo album cover for Sam Broverman and a portrait turned cover of the magazine of Simone Denny! It was an inspiring experience to work with such incredible talent and bring out the unique personality of each artist through my lens.
Here’s a friendly reminder that the Holiday Season is upon us and it’s the perfect time to capture the warmth and joy of Christmas with a festive photoshoot at Curious Captures Studio! Whether you’re looking for family portraits, couple shots, or a solo session, our studio is ready to bring your holiday vision to life with beautiful backdrops and holiday props.
Book your Christmas-themed session today and create memories you’ll treasure for years to come! Spots are limited, so don’t wait—reserve your session now and let’s make this season unforgettable.
Film news
In film news, I was honoured to serve as a juror for documentary films at the Directors Guild of Canada this year. And next week, tune in to Fear Thy Neighbor for the “Get Off My Property” episode which I directed. It is full of unbelievable twists. You can also catch “Intimidation Tactics”, my previous episode on CTV or Discovery+. I had such a blast directing both of these episodes! Thank you Cream Productions for having me. Here’s this season’s trailer:
A few inspirations
While preparing for the self-portraiture chapter of the Creative Photography workshop, I discovered the artist Ziqian Liu and was immediately captivated by her nuanced, gentle imagery. As a self-portrait artist myself, I appreciate her evocative yet elusive style, her subtle color palette, and her creative play with shapes and forms. I’d love to hear your thoughts on her work!
An art zine you didn’t know you needed
Andrea Carson Barker and Janos Kereszturi Toth launched the 4th edition of the Untitled (The Public Art Zine) in Toronto this September. It is a first of its kind and a very much needed magazine about public art in the city of Toronto. A beautiful and very carefully constructed edition features Q&A with various artists and Business Improvement Area specialists.
To get your copy, get in touch with @andreacarsonbarker now.
Last but not least
To wrap up, I want to thank you all for being part of this creative journey with me. Here’s to a season of new ideas, connections, and beautiful captures, no matter what the news outlets tell us. Here’s Above the Horizon photograph, which I made at Toronto Beaches this October. Let it remind you of the endless possibilities waiting to be discovered. Wishing you warmth and wonder in the days ahead and hope to see you soon at the Curious Captures Photo Studio!
Yours truly,
Nika Belianina
Hey Curious,
I always look forward to your newsletters.
I can't wait to see what's next in your amazing journey Nika.
clark