Kayla Rocca: The Power of Kindness, Connection, and Creative Grit

Toronto-based photographer Kayla Rocca shares how loss, resilience, and persistence shaped her creative path—from theatre student and Drake Hotel server to shooting Hollywood Reporter’s TIFF portrait studio and campaigns for Netflix, Airbnb, and Roots. We talk about how art became her therapy, the importance of networking with kindness, and how she built a career on trust, teamwork, and genuine curiosity rather than ego. Key Takeaways Grief can be a catalyst. Picking up a camera during loss became Kayla’s path to healing—and ultimately, her career. Say yes before you’re ready. Shooting everything early on taught her lighting, storytelling, and adaptability faster than any course. Kindness compounds. A simple follow-up email to an old connection led to her dream job at TIFF 10 years later. Teamwork builds confidence. Lighting techs, stylists, and digitechs aren’t background players—they’re creative partners. Drop the ego. Confidence comes from curiosity and collaboration, not knowing it all. Learn to price without fear. Knowing your worth changes how you show up, negotiate, and create. Follow your fuel. Shoot what excites you most—whether that’s celebrities, stories, or beauty—it all starts with passion. Loved this conversation? Subscribe to Artist Date wherever you listen to podcasts. Share this episode with a photographer or creative who’s ready to take bold steps in their career. Follow @nicoleromanoffphoto and @artistdatepodcast on Instagram for behind-the-scenes insights and more! Sign up for the weekly newsletter here! Watch on YouTube — click here to watch and subscribe!