Valentina Nicole The artist

Hi, I’m Valentina Nicole — a Milwaukee-born artist, self-taught photographer, and lifelong creator with a foundation in graphic design from the Art Institute of Wisconsin. My love for art began with drawing portraits and exploring digital design, and over time, that passion naturally evolved into photography.

A few weeks after I left my 9–5 job to pursue art full-time, I found out I was pregnant. Suddenly, I was growing two dreams at once — my son and my creative career. That season was filled with excitement, nerves, and so much transformation.

I didn’t have a photographer for my baby shower, and the day I planned to take my maternity photos, I went into labor. Missing those keepsakes made me realize the importance of capturing life’s real, fleeting moments with intention. That understanding shaped the way I photograph — with empathy, artistry, and a deep respect for the story behind every image.

As my career grew, I expanded into photographing weddings as well. I love the rawness of real moments, the laughter, the tears, the quiet in-betweens — and I approach them the same way I create art. Every photographer’s eye is different, and mine sees real life as something to transform into art pieces. I’m not just taking photos; I’m creating visual memories that feel alive.

Even while developing my photography, I never let go of my fine art roots. I still paint and draw portraits, and honestly, photography became my way of creating the images I would want to draw — just in a much quicker process. (Because let’s be real… taking the picture is way faster than spending 20 hours shading a nose!)

My website is a home for all of my creative expressions — fine art, photography, and everything in between. Whether you’re here to book a session or commission a custom piece, we’re collaborating. We’re creating something meaningful together. And that collaboration — that shared spark — is what makes this work so special and so much fun.

I’m honored to turn your moments, your story, and your vision into lasting art.