A visual storyteller is a professional who creates narratives primarily through the use of visual media. The story may be told using still photography, illustration, or video, often enhanced with graphics, music, voice and other audio.

Career:Visual Storytelling

What was your motivation for taking this career path?

There has always been two things that have always been a passion for me: people and their stories. The medium of film, specifically, had those two things. I love the emotions it evokes, the ability to place me in someone’s shoes, and the call to action it demands. When I began looking ahead at my college career and deciding what I wanted to do, I chose to harness that “magic” of filmmaking. I had grown up writing scripts, editing videos, and creating stories to make sense of the world around. I could pour what I felt and what I believed into something for the world to see. In the end, it was clear to see that my story was being written to pursue a career in art.

What do you do on an average day?

Being an artist allows me to explore various mediums of storytelling. Whether it is filmmaking, photography or producing a podcast, I’m constructing stories every day. My daily activities include connecting with people, building relationships with them, and creating a foundation of trust and comfort to share their story openly. I edit videos regularly, and produce a podcast for the North Pacific Union called, “Filling the Gap.” The podcast explores the topics and issues we face every day, but don’t always address or talk about. Through the power of vulnerability and storytelling, we hope to fill the gaps in our churches, communities, and within ourselves.

How do you express your faith through your art?

The reason I am so passionate about storytelling is because of Jesus’ example. He told parables—stories—that connected us all to one another and to him. We have spent 2000 years studying, believing and applying these stories to our everyday lives. I believe that stories are what gives us empathy and understanding, but also the power to change for the better. Jesus’ story changed our world, and I believe each of us have a story capable of doing the same. God has given me talents to make that change in the world by helping others share their stories.

Education: Andrews University

B.F.A. in Documentary Film, minor in history

EMPLOYER: North Pacific Union Conference

Nina Vallado

Visual Storyteller