Conversations with Connor Nelson

Today we’d like to introduce you to Connor Nelson. 

Hi Connor, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Hi, my name is Connor Nelson, I am a filmmaker from Winter Park, Colorado. I started filming at the very young age of 9. Throughout my early career, I used film to capture myself and my friends’ skiing. I became a professional skier and put the camera down for some time. After my ski career, I decided I wanted film back in my life so I packed up my life and moved to Chicago to study film at Columbia College Chicago. Currently, I am working on commercials and documentaries. I am in the middle of a feature-length documentary about the East Troublesome Fire that devastated Colorado in 2020. 

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The road has definitely not been smooth. After my ski career, I fell down the wrong path, abusing drugs and alcohol. I had to pick myself up from that which was not easy but it taught me a lot about myself and what I am capable of doing. I am now 4 years sober with the intent of keeping it that way. Covid was another big setback, but I believe it was a struggle for everyone. 

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I specialize in music videos, commercials, and documentaries. My creative process always starts with my clients and the creatives I surround myself with. I believe a strong connection between clients and myself is the key to making the best work. For my music videos, I try and bring my and the artist’s life into the project. Sometimes this takes months to build the right story that is impactful. Most of the work I see in the music video field doesn’t share a message. I feel it is important that all films share an important and impactful message. My documentary work is solely based around Wildfires at the moment. I have met so many wonderful people working on my film “Troublesome”, I am excited to release it this summer of 2022. 

Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs, or other resources you think our readers should check out?
It’s hard to say this but Instagram has been my biggest tool for learning. It helps keep me connected with other creatives where I can watch their work. This helps me with ideas and keeps me in the loop with the most current progression in film. 

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @the_air_Hunter
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/connor.nelson.923
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8Sr_sWfJS0YwoS-MDIfIAg

Image Credits
Connor Nelson.