In this episode of Behind the Business, I sit down with Nicole Valkner, the heart behind Gulotta Imagery, to talk about the journey from picking up a camera as a hobby to building a photography business that captures some of life’s most meaningful moments along the Lake Michigan shoreline.

Nicole’s story isn’t just about photography—it’s about taking a leap into the unknown, trusting your instincts, and building something meaningful while balancing the realities of motherhood, family, and running her own business. From long summer days filled with back-to-back sessions to late nights spent editing, she shares the behind-the-scenes moments people don’t always see.

Raised between Southern California and Michigan and inspired by a family of artists, Nicole developed a style rooted in authenticity—capturing genuine laughter, connection, and the fleeting seasons of life we often wish we could hold on to just a little longer.

This episode dives into the beauty and challenges of running a mostly seasonal business, the power of community support, and why—despite the rise of smartphones—professional photography still matters.

Because in the end, these aren’t just photos, they’re memories you get to keep for a lifetime.