Conversations with Danielle Tolson

Today we’d like to introduce you to Danielle Tolson.

Hi Danielle, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Absolutely! So, as cliché as it sounds, I was that kid in school who was always taking pictures of my friends. Any creative photo shoot idea I had, they were up to model for it. I also had a lot of friends in bands, so they let me get creative with their band photos. That’s when I really learned that I loved collaborating with and photographing people! I later went on to receive my BFA in Photography in Boston.

From there, I kind of did it all for a while. I worked in darkrooms processing film, spent time in print labs, worked as a digital archivist focusing on long-term preservation of photographs, maps, and blueprints, photographed musicians, clothing lines, real estate, you name it. And all of that ended up being such a gift because it gave me this really well-rounded foundation. I learned how to adapt, work in different environments, and tell all kinds of stories through images.

Right after I graduated college, I was offered the opportunity to second shoot a wedding, and I immediately fell in love with it. There was something about being part of such an important day in people’s lives that just clicked for me, and I knew I wanted to make this my career.

Eventually, I took the leap and started my own photography business. Once I moved to Colorado, I found myself gravitating toward elopements and micro-weddings. I realized I really enjoyed helping couples with more than just photography. Like helping them figure out logistics on where to stay, find locations, deal with permits, all that planning stuff. It all just kind of naturally evolved into where I am now!

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Definitely not! Like most creative careers, it’s been a mix of really exciting highs and some pretty challenging seasons. In the beginning, the hardest part was realizing I had to learn how to run a business, not just take great photos. There’s so much behind the scenes that nobody tells you about when you’re starting out. Marketing, finances, communication, contracts, the list goes on. A lot of it was just trial and error, and honestly, I made plenty of mistakes along the way.

There have also been slower seasons, moments of burnout, and the occasional wave of imposter syndrome. It’s so easy to compare yourself to others in this industry, especially with social media constantly in your face. That can really get in your head if you let it.

What’s helped me through those times is staying connected to why I started in the first place. Working with amazing people and creating something meaningful for them. Focusing on my couples, building genuine relationships, and continuing to learn and grow has made the road feel a lot steadier over time.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m an elopement and micro-wedding photographer based in Colorado. A big part of what I do goes beyond just showing up with a camera. I help couples plan their day from the ground up. Whether they want to camp the night before and hike to an alpine lake for sunrise vows, or find a unique Airbnb where they can celebrate with their closest people and have a ceremony in a nearby national forest, I’m there to help make it happen. I take the time before their wedding day to really get to know them individually and as a couple, so their day ends up being as unique and true to them as possible.

My work is very story-driven. I’m always paying attention to those in-between moments. The hugs, the nerves, the laughter, the quiet glances. But I also love being able to guide couples through more composed moments without it feeling stiff or awkward. A lot of people choose to work with me because they want that blend of candid storytelling and beautiful portraits, but without feeling like they need to know how to pose in front of a camera. I can guide them through it all and make it feel natural and relaxed.

What I’m most proud of is how much of my business has grown through referrals and repeat clients. When someone comes back for anniversary photos or sends their friends my way, that means *everything* to me. I think what sets me apart is that I genuinely enjoy the whole process and being there as a steady presence throughout the day, not just the photography part.

What do you like and dislike about the city?
What I love most about Denver is how easy it is to balance city life with the outdoors. You can grab coffee, work for a few hours, go for a short hike in the mountains, and make it back to the city in time to catch a show or grab dinner with friends. Having that kind of access to nature is a huge part of what drew me here and what keeps me inspired creatively. I also love how creative this city is. There are so many people, spaces, and events that feature art and artists of all kinds. It’s really a magical place.

What I like least is probably how expensive it’s become over the years. A lot of the neighborhoods that used to feel more local and laid-back have changed pretty quickly, and the cost of living has gone up with that. It’s still a great city, but it definitely feels different than it did when I first moved here.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.danielletolson.co/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danielletolsonphoto/