Some ideas begin with a spark, but others may take more time to kindle… Are yours smoldering just beneath the surface?
Founded by Nicole Smolen, SMOLDER® is a creative studio specializing in design and photography. It’s a place for emerging artists, innovators, and creators of every kind.
Nicole’s background gives her a unique approach to each endeavor. More on that below…
ABOUT NICOLE
When Nicole’s not designing or photographing, she’s probably reading, writing, or exploring local coffee shops and bakeries.
Welcome! I'm so glad you're here. My name is Nicole Smolen, and I'd love to help bring your unique story to life.
As a filmmaker, I've championed stories that raise important questions and challenge viewers to look beneath the surface. In addition to top-tier commercials and music videos, I've produced several award-winning films, many of which debuted at acclaimed festivals—ranging from Palm Springs and Tribeca to Cannes. Besides being certified in AVID Media Composer, I specialize in Movie Magic Budgeting/Scheduling, Final Cut Pro, Google Workspace, and the Adobe Suite.Through the years, I've worn many different hats: actor, production assistant, coordinator, unit production manager, producer, director, writer, and casting director.
My foray into photography began in the college darkroom, where I spent hours dancing to curated playlists and watching images magically appear on Ilford photo paper. Loading, shooting, developing, and printing require patience... This art form reminds me to take risks and trust the process. Aside from film and digital photography, retouching and editing are also part of my toolkit.
While working alongside innovative artists and filmmakers, I developed an eye for graphic design. From pitch decks and logos to business cards and signage, I've designed for production companies, tufters, ceramicists, makeup artists, real estate developers, hardware stores, and music festivals.
What story do you want to tell?
What does it mean to smolder?
One definition of smolder is to burn slowly with smoke but without towering flames. This word is also synonymous with “glow” or “burn,” but this studio takes it a step further.
In the context of creativity, smolder means sparking ideas that catch fire. And these ideas aren’t temporary trends… Instead, they’re more akin to embers. They have longevity, blazing brightly for all to see.
Our mission? Make your visions a brilliant reality.
(Moreover, my last name—Smolen—happens to be related to smolder. What a fun coincidence!)
