Mentoring
SARAH TAYLOR, CCE
Mentor to emerging filmmakers + podcasters
About Me
With over 20 years of experience in film and television, I specialize in editing and story development. I’ve worked on feature films, documentaries, and series, with projects screening at festivals such as Sundance, TIFF, Tribeca, and CIFF. I’m passionate about mentoring emerging editors and filmmakers, helping them develop strong storytelling instincts, navigate post-production, and build sustainable creative careers.
I’ve also been podcasting since 2018 as the host of The Editor’s Cut (Canadian Cinema Editors) and Braaains. I’ve supported many budding podcasters as they’ve prepared to launch their own shows, and I’ve enjoyed producing programs of various genres from academic (University of Alberta) to financial (Best Practices).
Mentoring Services
I offer creative and practical support throughout the filmmaking process—from story development and structure to post-production strategy and final cut feedback. I can also advise on matters related to career development, funding opportunities, training and professional development.
In terms of podcasting, I offer mentoring to those interested in launching a podcast of their own, and here at Story Darling Studios, we have a comprehensive suite of offerings for those interested in podcasting services.
Rates
Hourly Consult (Zoom or in-person) $100
Sliding Scale
I offer sliding scale rates for independent creators, students, and underrepresented filmmakers. I believe in access to mentorship and support for all storytellers. Please reach out to discuss what works for your budget—we’ll find a path forward together.
Let’s Connect
sarah@storydarling.com
DALLAS CUROW, MA
Mentor to emerging photographers
About Me
Super quick version of how I got started:
As a second-generation photographer, creative work has been a part of my life since my early childhood. I got my first camera when I was three, then spent my kid time and tween years endlessly styling, directing and taking pictures of friends. I was the high school yearbook photographer, a photo editor at my University’s student newspaper, then I spent evenings and weekends moonlighting as a part-time photographer after clocking out of my day jobs for years. Finally, in 2013 I made the leap to full-time photography and never looked back.
My job is my dream come true. I’d love to help you pursue your dreams, too.
Mentoring Services
You’ve got questions, and I’m an open book. I offer support for aspiring and developing photographers, from choosing educational options to making decisions that help grow your career. I can also advise on specific tools, software, services.
I’ve learned so many valuable lessons along the way and love to pass along my knowledge, tips and tricks. Let me save you time and stress by addressing the topics that are currently challenging you the most.
Sample topics
How I shoot
How to find your style
My gear and accessories of choice
My editing and retouching workflow
Creating your own presets
Phone photography workflow
Planning and producing creative projects
All the systems I use to run my business
How I balance client work and creative projects
Creating structure and boundaries
How I approach social media and marketing
Creating a joyful client experience
Partnerships and collaborations
Balancing business and motherhood
Let’s Connect
dallas@storydarling.com
The Intensive Mentorship
This signature experience is designed for the aspiring or developing photographer who wants to significantly level up. We work together closely for a full year, fostering your creativity and skills as an artist as well as your vision and acumen as a creative professional.
In-person kick off session (3 hours)
Monthly virtual meetings (1 hour each)
Quarterly practice shoots in studio/on location (1 hour each)
Detailed review of your brand new portfolio at year-end
$3000
Creative Development Session
This 3-hour intensive session is the perfect way to connect, get answers to your biggest questions, and also get real experience shooting and editing with detailed, real-time guidance. We have coffee or tea, followed by a practice shoot that’s designed to address a current technical or creative challenge, then we process a few images from that very shoot to work through questions about editing or retouching by using the appropriate software (Imagen, Lightroom or Photoshop) and sharpen your desired skills.
Q + A coffee date
Creative practice shoot in studio
Editing and retouching lesson
$1000
Coffee + Creative Conversation
This is a creative consultation for anyone looking for assistance brainstorming about a creative issue. Perhaps you are trying to dream up your next personal project, want some feedback on an idea you’re working on, or a fresh set of eyes to audit your brand and provide creative guidance about next steps. We approach one issue per session, and I offer gentle yet direct and constructive feedback, unlimited ideas, relevant resources, suggested next steps, with zero gatekeeping.
We meet for coffee at The Creative Hive and chat.
$300 + GST / one hour
Q & A session (virtual)
We chat over Zoom about the question or issue that’s top of mind for you. This is an approachable and convenient option when you have a particular burning question. We can officially work through one principal topic per hour, typically, but I’m a fast talker so often we get through a lot! Bring a list of burning questions and we’ll see how much we can cover.
$200 + GST / one hour
Sliding Scale
I offer sliding scale rates for students and underrepresented photographers and creators. I strongly believe in equitable access to mentorship. Please reach out to discuss what works for your budget—we’ll make it work.