Establishing Shots #6: Nia Chin

Welcome to Establishing Shots, an interview series where we turn a spotlight towards the diverse talent that comprise QuickFrame’s Maker Community, emphasizing the personality and artistry behind some of our top video content makers.

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Today, we’re talking with Nia Chin,  a member of QuickFrame’s Maker Community and founder of Studio Chin LLC, a vehicle that amplifies the human experience through impactful branded videos that stimulate people to different ways of thinking.

Her work landscapes the visual, performing, and literary arts with playful imagination and timeless values. She’s a sweet-tooth prairie fairy who loves an epic dance party and all-things comedy.

Tell us a little about yourself!

I am a multifaceted artist based in Maryland. After many years of exploring my talents, I decided to become a professional freelancer. The bedrock of my life has been rooted in the Arts (acting, dance, piano, music composition, and video creation) all of which encompass my life as an artist. It’s the only thing that feels like home.

Where did your journey as a content maker begin?

I initially began working with people in the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Area to create and repurpose home videos (anniversaries, milestones, time capsules) and small business establishments that needed rebranding and development videos, and graphic design (flyers, social media carousels).

More recently, I’m nurturing my experience in concept development and writing. As it turns out, high-quality writing beats high-quality design. I’ve also collaborated with local production companies and expanded my expertise into the commercial world which has been highly rewarding.

What piqued your interest in the industry?

Having made videos at leisure when I was younger, I found it nearly seamless to transition into a video editing career. I have a love for storytelling, so I’m also piqued by future opportunities to direct and produce. I think emerging media and technologies have completely reimagined the next wave of thought leaders and how art and video makes us feel. Somehow, I plan to be a part of that movement.

Do you think there are any benefits with being a person of color in the video industry?

Undeniably. No industry can be future-proof without understanding how racial and cultural differences shape society. I’m an advocate for inclusivity across the board – if you can see it, you can be it. Having people of color in the video industry challenges everyone to rethink the norms of representation.

Do you think there are any complications that arise from being a person of color in the video industry? How have you overcome them?

When people choose prejudice over open-mindedness, complications arise. Normalizing people of color in the industry is probably the biggest challenge. Sometimes racial differences need to be recognized and accommodated for a certain project or audience. However, defining a maker or project primarily based on race can also reshape and limit the entire experience. As a Black woman, I manage these challenges through transparency and intentionality in diverse spaces.

Is there anyone that has been especially inspirational to you?

I hold a high regard for Filmmaker Barry Jenkins, Director Greta Gerwig, YouTubers Marques Brownlee (aka ‘MKBHD’) and Daniel Schiffer, and nearly every ad created by Apple, to name a few.

For any non advertising work you do (narrative, documentary, music video, etc) where do you draw inspiration?

Color and music really help me visualize; a Pixar movie is like a face-lift for my sandbox. While I’m not big on surprises in my personal life (lol) I want my work to be equally surprising and satisfying. Even when I’m able to appreciate another maker’s work, I’m compelled to think about it from a different angle. Inspiration is everywhere.

What advice would you give to a videographer, producer, writer, or anyone else who wants to follow a similar path as you?

This industry is tough. The rewards for being a freelancer can be amazing, but nothing happens overnight. I would advise aspiring makers to grasp as much as possible and think outside the box; establish personal style; pursue projects that are relatable; and above all, be professional, kind, and set boundaries.

It can be difficult to balance your personal aesthetics within the vision of a brand. Remaining authentic can strengthen your voice and skillset. Channel that strength from absorbing knowledge and receiving rejections. Lastly, find your tribe; they will help you grow and you’ll need each other in good times and bad.

If there is anything else you would like to share about yourself, your experience, or something/someone that inspires you?

One of my goals in 2023 is to level-up my social media presence. I’ve invested a lot into successfully enhancing digital platforms for customers. My relationship with social media is super healthy because we give each other space! Still, I owe it to myself to explore some new landscapes.