
Nicole Close is a Halifax-based First Assistant Director and Filmmaker. Originally from Vancouver, B.C. she now lives on the east coast of Canada in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia. A self-proclaimed mermaid touched by breast cancer, Nicole is the founder of the Saltwatercure Fund. Her connection to the ocean and love of surfing were integral to her treatment and healing, and they continue to shape, influence, and inspire her filmmaking.

Nicole was one of 5 finalists for the CBC Pitch This! at Women in Film and Television Atlantic (WIFT-AT) – Making Waves 2025 conference. Nicole pitched Saltwater Cure; a short film about surfing, cancer and radical acceptance.



Nicole received the 2024 Directors Guild of Canada (DGC) Impact Award in recognition of outstanding service and leadership to the production community at large for her work with the Saltwatercure Fund. Through this fund Nicole raises money for Nova Scotians with breast cancer and offers peer support.
Behind the scenes

Photo credit: Michael Tompkins


THREE LITTLE WORDS – DYI Short Doc (August 2023) on Lake Banook with the Halifax Bosum Buddies, Julie Martel (Subject)

Morgana McKenzie(DOP), Stephanie Burbano (Production Designer), Amelia Moses (Director), Nicole Close (1st AD) @RILEYSMITHPHOTO