Little Tog Feature | Nikola Veins

This month we sat down and interviewed one of our Little Togs in the Big Tog/Little Tog program through the membership program to find out more about her and the mentorship program.

Q: Tell us a little about yourself.

A: My name is Niko and I am from New Hampshire, USA. I am a middle school Technology Coach currently on extended leave to be home with my babies. I picked up my camera after deciding not to go back to teaching as a way to keep me busy and have a hobby that was for myself.   I use a Canon 6D mark ii and switch between a 50mm and 35mm lens. I consider myself a documentary/lifestyle photographer but explore different genres all the time. 

Q:How did you learn about the Big Tog, Little Tog program?

A: I learned about the tog program through my Hello Storyteller membership. 

Q: How did you select your Big Tog? 

A: My Big Tog is Aly Ahern and I chose her because of her ability to create beautiful portraits of her kids and her use of light in her images. 

Q: What does your Big Tig/Little Tog relationship look like?

A: It consisted of lots of feedback on current images and helping me decide what types of lenses and gear works best for me.  Also how to shoot in low light and create that golden haze in outside images.  Aly sent me many helpful videos of herself editing images that I sent her to show me her editing tips as well as constructive feedback on how to get better images in camera.  She’s the best. 

Q: What have you gained by having a Big Tog?

A. I have gained so much knowledge and skill as well as confidence knowing I have someone to run questions by anytime and not feel embarrassed.  

Q: What would you tell someone that is considering joining the Big Tog, Little Tog program?

A: I would say to do it! What’s lacking in many courses you purchase is that it is not custom to your needs or skill level or even goals.  The Big Tog/Little Tog program allows you to customize what you get from your Big Tog based on what you want to achieve.  

Q: Would you recommend this program?

A: I would definitely recommend it for all the above reasons and more. Make sure you look at the feeds of each possible Big Tog and find one that aligns with where you envision yourself as a photographer. 

Q: Tell us a fun fact about yourself!

A:  I do most of my editing on my iPhone in LR mobile!

We loved interviewing and learning more about Niko and hope you did too. You can see more of her work on Instagram. If you are interested in having a Big Tog, and are a current Hello Storyteller member, contact Angie Mahlke; if you are not currently a member and would like to have a Big Tog, please register for the membership, and then reach out to Angie.

If you’d like to see the full list of Big Togs that are currently offering the mini-mentorships, you can find the list here.