The Virtual Mentorship Program with Monika Deviat Photography will return for 2027!
Requirements
Requirements for the program are as open as possible for nature photographers. A goal that has consistently been important to me is helping to build diversity and visibility of diversity in photography. I’d love to work with someone who is building their business, is interested in putting themselves out there (speaking/educating/etc.), is authentic and adds something unexpected or unconventional to the industry. A passion for night photography would be a bonus.
This is one of the ways I give back to the incredible photography community that has supported me on my journey and my way to help empower different voices and perspectives.
Ideally two mentees will be chosen providing there are good fits. One spot is reserved for a Canadian Photographer currently residing in Canada. If the mentees are interested in attending group workshops, they will receive a discounted rate on certain workshops as a perk of the mentorship program.
“My mentorship with Monika Deviat over the past year has been truly unforgettable. She has given me an incredible behind-the-scenes look at the world of photography, transforming the way I approach both the artistry and business aspects of photography. Monika’s guidance pushed me beyond my limits, challenging my skills and inspiring me to succeed. Her mentorship has not only elevated my confidence as a photographer but has also sparked a bold new vision for my future as I’m now seriously considering photography as a full-time career, and it’s all thanks to her support, guidance and encouragement. I strongly feel this mentorship has elevated my photography on every level.”
– Jonathan Gillingham, 2024 Mentee
“My one-year mentorship with Monika Deviat was transformative for both my photography and personal growth. Monika’s guidance in goal-setting and accountability kept me focused and motivated throughout the year. She encouraged me to be introspective and reflective, helping me align my personal values with my brand identity in a way that felt authentic and meaningful.
Monika’s generosity in sharing her knowledge was invaluable—whether it was navigating the business side of photography, refining technical skills, or elevating my editing techniques, her mentorship provided a comprehensive foundation for growth.
I’m truly grateful for this mentorship and would recommend Monika to anyone seeking to take their photography and creative journey to the next level.”
– Carmen Therriault, 2024 Mentee
“My mentorship with Monika Deviat over the past year has been truly unforgettable. She has given me an incredible behind-the-scenes look at the world of photography, transforming the way I approach both the artistry and business aspects of photography. Monika’s guidance pushed me beyond my limits, challenging my skills and inspiring me to succeed. Her mentorship has not only elevated my confidence as a photographer but has also sparked a bold new vision for my future as I’m now seriously considering photography as a full-time career, and it’s all thanks to her support, guidance and encouragement. I strongly feel this mentorship has elevated my photography on every level.”
– Jonathan Gillingham, 2024 Mentee
Working with Monika over the past year has been one of the most transformative experiences of my photography journey. When I joined her mentorship, I was looking to learn skills that would help me build a photography business, but what I gained was far more meaningful than I ever expected.
Her guidance helped me grow as a photographer and artist in so many ways, such as, building confidence in my vision to understanding the business essentials that support a sustainable career in nature photography. She offered invaluable insight into the industry, marketing, and social media, always breaking things down in a way that felt approachable and empowering.
But the greatest impact came from her ability to help me uncover my own creative vision. Through many self-reflection exercises, thoughtful conversations, and honest feedback, she helped me identify what I truly value as a nature photographer and where I need to focus my energy to grow both artistically and professionally. She helped me to recognize my potential, trust my instincts, and embrace the parts of my work that feel most authentic.
She also showed me the importance of community and how much we can learn from one another, and how much stronger we are when we share, connect, and support fellow photographers and artists.
I am deeply grateful for her mentorship, her generosity, and her belief in me. This past year has shaped not only the way I photograph, but the way I see myself as an artist. Monika has helped me lay down a foundation for my photography business ideas that I will continue to work on and develop. I couldn’t have asked for a better mentorship, and I feel truly lucky to have had the opportunity to learn from her. Thank you so much Monika!!
– Alisa Peckham, 2025 Mentee
As my mentorship with Monika comes to an end, I am thankful for all the insight, encouragement, and support I have received over the past year. With her direction and guidance, I have a clear plan of where I want to take my photography business. Being able to reach out for advice, critique, or simple questions has been a valuable component of my growth this past year. Monika’s support as a mentor and friend has increased my confidence in all areas of photography, particularly the speaking aspect. The consistent questions, conversations, and encouragement have made me feel confident in the direction I am taking my business, and I look forward to putting the information I have learned into effect moving forward.
–Tracey Halladay, 2025 Mentee
About Monika’s Journey
My journey in photography was not a typical one. I did not see myself represented when I first started in night photography. The lack of representation didn’t deter me – I spent a lot of time in male-dominated fields like physics, heavy metal and the oil and gas corporate world. Though, I wonder if there had been a more diverse representation in my favourite genre of photography, would I have started this sooner? It was challenging to find inspirations in photography or a mentor that could help me with what I wanted to do. Luckily, I have some fantastic friends that I was able to discuss ideas with, and I did find a few people who were willing to answer my questions and give me some great advice. I hope to make someone’s journey and progress a little easier and help motivate them to keep pushing forward.
2026 Applications have closed. Thank you to all who applied!
Deadline to Apply: Jan 22, 2026
Mentee Announcement: Jan 27, 2026
Take your time with the application. I genuinely want to get to know you – your goals, your challenges, your story. Be honest, be open, and don’t hold back on details. The more thoughtful your answers are, the better I can understand if this mentorship is the right fit for you.
The form will not save your answers. It is recommended to write your responses in a document where you can save your work and then copy the answers into the form below.
To ensure a focused experience, those participating in a similar mentorship program during 2026 are not eligible to apply.