Hi, my name is Chris Stelly, and I’m an award-winning graphic designer, video producer/editor, and WordPress developer in Nashville, Tennessee.
My journey into the television industry began at the young age of 12. Fueled by my passion for creativity and storytelling, I found myself eagerly delving into the realm of videography with a hand-me-down 8mm Handycam. Together with my friends, I shot amateur skateboarding videos, utilizing every opportunity to experiment and learn the intricacies of the craft.
As I grew older and developed a deeper understanding of my passion, I eagerly sought opportunities to enhance my skills. With a thirst for knowledge, I enrolled in weekend classes at the local public access cable station. These classes provided me with valuable insights into the technical aspects of shooting and editing video, equipping me with the fundamentals necessary to embark on a career in the industry.
My affinity for graphic design burgeoned around the same time I discovered my penchant for videography. It was during this pivotal period that I picked up a copy of Photoshop 3.0, which served as my portal into a realm brimming with creative possibilities. I was immediately captivated by the power and versatility that digital design offered. I realized how much I enjoyed mocking up ads and designing logos.
In the present day, I am proud to reflect on the vast array of experiences that have shaped my television career. From my earliest days in the tape room and behind the studio camera, to master control, I have worked in many roles that constitute the complex world of local television. My journey has not been limited to the technical aspects alone, as I have also had the privilege of immersing myself in the creative side of the industry. As a commercial producer, I have been given the opportunity to conceptualize and bring to life captivating advertisements that seamlessly weave a narrative and resonate with viewers. Moreover, my time as a promotions manager has allowed me to craft engaging campaigns that drive excitement and anticipation for forthcoming programs and events.
Throughout my career, I have embraced every challenge and seized every opportunity to contribute to the success of the stations I have been a part of. The diverse nature of my experiences has truly enabled me to cultivate a comprehensive understanding of the inner workings of local television. In fact, this understanding has led me to assume unconventional roles such as being a fill-in secretary, stepping up when needed and ensuring the smooth operation of the station. The richness and breadth of my experiences in local television have instilled in me a deep appreciation for the collaborative and dynamic nature of the industry. Every day brings with it new challenges, and with each challenge comes an opportunity to push the boundaries of creativity and innovation.
Moving forward, I am eager to continue exploring the multifaceted landscape of the television industry and contribute my versatile skillset to further propel its evolution. From capturing inspiring stories behind the camera to crafting compelling narratives in front of it, I am committed to making an enduring impact and continuously pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the ever-evolving world of television.
In my spare time, I enjoy road trips and archiving local television for my YouTube channel, Channel 37. I also volunteer with Nashville Roller Derby as video coordinator and assistant marketing director. Additionally, I’m part of audio/video staffs at several fandom conventions across middle Tennessee and central Kentucky. Collectively, these endeavors provide me with a diverse range of outlets to express my passion for capturing and presenting visual narratives. Every moment spent in these pursuits brings me fulfillment and immeasurable joy.