Today we’d like to introduce you to Christian Nelson.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Christian. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
From a young age, I’ve always had a love for film. I got my start in film at a young age, acting and helping direct plays for my childhood church. Then, while in high school, I started producing short films and other digital media under my own production company named ‘Reel Retro Productions’. Since that time, I have learned and gained knowledge from many business professionals and creative individuals in my home town of Austin, Texas, as well as in Dallas, San Antonio, Houston, and others. I have produced/worked on numerous award-winning short films in the role of Director, Composer, Director of Photography, Gaffer and Art Director. These enlightening experiences progress me as a filmmaker and as a person. I continue the journey of growth, reflection and passion through my love for imaginative ideas and artistic expression.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
A few struggles stick out to me. Firstly, while in high school, I originally wanted to pursue acting. However, at the end of my first year in theater, I was told by the teacher that I was not talented enough to continue theater. Disheartened, I decided to take a class to blow off in anything similar. I chose a film class, and that decision would forever change my life. So, ‘thank you’ mean theater teacher???
While developing my new direction in art, I decided to forge a path that leads me to college. I graduated and started community college with the plan to transfer to my dream college: Columbia College Chicago. I applied, waited, received a response, and was accepted. I did not go. Due to my families financial standing and some other unfortunate circumstances, I had to stop and rethink the direction of my life.
Angry, and truly Depressed, I calmed my mind and emotions and told myself one thing: “If I can’t go and learn about the film at this place, I will do the same thing through my works in my home town. Again, that decision would forever change my life.
Please tell us about your company.
Reel Retro Productions, established in 2008, is a digital media company dedicated to the creation and formation of imaginative ideas and artistic expressions. Our focus is on narrative film, documentaries, music videos and cinematic promotions. Through this company, I offer services as a Director, Composer and Director of Photography, in addition to Gaffing, Sound Design and Photography.
Not only do I compose music for the film, but I also DJ and produce LoFi Hip-Hop and House music, all under the name Khris Paradise. I have had the honor of performing live for private and public events like SXSW and build a brand around my own musical ideas.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
My imagination and welcoming nature are two of the most important factors for my success so far. Keeping an open mind and sense of discovery is paramount when working alongside numerous different and diverse persons and personalities on film sets. Also, my determination in the face of defeat has shown strong as I look back on my journey so far. There have been too many occasions where I could have given up, but I did not. I find strength and solace in this realization as I continue forward.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.reelretroprods.com
- Email: contact@reelretroprods.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/cnelsonsays
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/christiannelson39
Image Credit:
David Romeo, Ashley Dang, Jason Winn, Marlyn Garcia
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