Saving Curious Captures
And How You Can Be Part of It
We all face challenges - moments that push us to retreat, rethink, or rise to the occasion. Have you ever had to fight for something you deeply love? That’s where I am now and, frankly speaking, I suck at asking for help. But my beloved Curious Captures studio needs you to stay alive.
The new year brought a big hurdle—my studio’s landlord is significantly raising the rent, giving me two months to decide: leave or find a way to stay. This space has become a vital part of my creativity in just 1.8 years, and I can’t imagine letting it go. It has helped me connect with my neighborhood by hosting art openings and workshops. It has given me space to build art installations (like a human-sized nest) and has pushed my skills to a new level. It has also captured many customers’ happy smiles.
Can you help me keep my studio?
Here’s what your help can do:
· You’ll be supporting an artist’s creative journey
· With 15+ years in photography, 20 in film, and 30+ exhibitions worldwide, I offer top-tier professional photography services
· You’ll get discounts for referrals!
· You’ll be the first to see my new work, get the behind-the-scenes insights, inspirations, and early exhibit announcements
· Good karma will come your way for supporting a woman-owned business!
What my clients say:
Brad, family portraits: “We have gotten our family portraits done the past two years with Nika at Curious Captures. She is a lot of fun to work with - especially with our two young daughters, and we've been very happy with the editing.”
Martha, branding session: “Love my branding photos! Nika understood my message and personality. She made the process fun and made sure I was comfortable throughout the photoshoot.”
Laura, writer’s portrait: “Great experience from start to finish- helpful and creative around setting up the shoot and the individual pictures - I was very happy with the results - also great on the business side”
How you can help:
· Refer friends and colleagues to the Curious Captures for photography
· Book a headshot session (take $50 off by mentioning this post/newsletter!)
· Schedule a Valentine’s-themed shoot with a family or a loved one (including pets)
· Follow @curiouscapturesstudio and @lifeasnika on Instagram and share my work on socials
· Bring a friend to my group exhibition at the Elaine Fleck Gallery on March 6th
· Rent Curious Captures studio for your photo or film needs
· Sign up for a workshop or class (see more below)
· Give Curious Captures a (good) review on google
Phew! No money requests. I did good, right?
Your support means the world to me!
You can book your spot here
Exclusive preview
As a thank you, here’s an exclusive preview of my latest art photo.
This character was created, embodied and designed by the talented Ksenia Ivanova - @iguanaksu It took her eight years from the initial idea to the shoot day to bring it to life, and I felt so honored that she chose me to capture it. We spent a wonderful day together with our helper, Tania, from makeup to costuming to an outdoor adventure (dogs loved us in a nature ravine!) and a studio session. Stay tuned for more images—this is just the first sneak preview! Behold, The Thread of Life
Group show at the Elaine Fleck Gallery in March
From March 6th to the 27th, a selection of talented artists will be curated into a group exhibition alongside featured gallery represented artists at the Elaine Fleck Gallery in Toronto’s West End. I invite you to come and bring a friend to the opening.
Opening Reception on Thursday March 6th, from 7-9 pm, 1351 Queen Street West, Toronto, Canada
Beloved Hybrid Photography Workshop is back!
Back by popular demand, this workshop is inspired by renowned artists like Danny Bittencourt, Amy Friend, and Karl Ohiri (making waves at MoMA!). I reveal the secrets of shooting for hybrid photography and a variety of techniques to apply onto an existing photograph to make something new out of it. During the class I will guide you through this exciting and no skills necessary hands-on experience with printed samples and materials.
Group limit to 12 people, ages 10-110
Date: March 1, 2025, 2-4 pm
Duration: 2-2.5 hrs
Price: $100 and includes all materials. Secure your spot here
Thank you for being part of my journey. Your support, whether through kind words, referrals, or simply following along, means a lot to me. I truly appreciate you taking the time to read this and for any way you choose to help.
Wishing you creativity, joy, and inspiration in your own journey. Let’s keep making the world a more beautiful place—together.
Sincerely,
Nika Belianina
film director/photographer
I will always be a fan of the wonderful home you created for art and community.
I'll look at several ways to support.
peace,
Clark