Today we’d like to introduce you to Kiara Magee.
Hi Kiara, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Cameras and video equipment were always around in my family, but my personal journey into media began unexpectedly—through sports. I started as the Head Student Manager for the Alcorn State University Men’s Basketball Team, a role that taught me discipline, leadership, and attention to detail. My dedication led to an opportunity to return as a Graduate Assistant, where I quickly recognized a major gap: our team had little to no media presence.
Determined to change that, I began capturing photos and videos on my iPhone. But it didn’t take long for me to realize that the quality didn’t reflect the vision I had in mind. That changed one day when one of our coaches, Coach Smith let me borrow his camera. What seemed like a small gesture ended up sparking something big—it was the moment I discovered my creative eye. I started shooting everything I could, learning how to tell stories through visuals and sharpening my craft day by day.
As my skills evolved, so did the opportunities. I had the chance to photograph artists like the late Rich Homie Quan, LightSkinKeisha, and Nardo Wick during our campus Spring Fest, and I was selected to join the media team for the HBCU All-Star Game LLC.
In my second season as a Graduate Assistant, I leveled up again—this time with a Canon Rebel SL1 gifted to me by my dad. I produced player interviews, game recaps, and original content that brought real visibility to our program. I returned to cover Spring Fest, capturing shots of Boosie Badazz, and was honored to be invited back for a second year with the HBCU All-Star Game.
After everything I experienced and built, I came back home to Nashville, TN. I worked, saved up, and invested in my own professional camera—the Sony A7III. Now, I’m focused on growing my brand, refining my creative voice, and seeking out new opportunities in the city.
While I got my start in sports, that’s not where I plan to stay. My passion lies in storytelling—whether through photography, videography, or content creation—and I’m ready to bring that vision to life across music, culture, lifestyle, and beyond.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road—but every obstacle has taught me something valuable and pushed me to grow both creatively and personally.
One of the biggest early challenges was not having access to professional equipment. I had the ideas and the drive, but I was shooting content on my iPhone while trying to compete in a space where high-quality visuals matter. I learned to be resourceful—doing the best I could with what I had, until Coach Smith let me borrow his camera. Later, my dad gifted me a Canon Rebel SL1, which helped me take things to the next level. But even with better gear, I had to teach myself everything—editing, shooting, storytelling—all through trial, error, and long hours of practice.
Balancing responsibilities as a Graduate Assistant was another challenge. I was managing team logistics, staying on top of grad school, and carving out time to create and edit content—all while building a vision from the ground up.
Since returning home to Nashville, the path hasn’t gotten any easier. I’ve applied to countless jobs in media—roles I knew I could thrive in creatively—but I’ve been overlooked time and time again. I’ve made it to first-round interviews, only to never hear back from recruiters. And often, I’ve felt passed over simply because I don’t have a degree specifically in media, film, or communications—even though I’ve done the real work, built a strong portfolio, and proven my skills in the field.
But those rejections haven’t discouraged me—they’ve motivated me. I saved up, invested in my own Sony A7III, and kept creating. I’m still pushing forward, still building my brand, and still striving to make my name known in Nashville and beyond.
While I got my start in sports, I know my passion and my purpose go far beyond that. I’m a storyteller—and I’m just getting started. I just need someone to believe in me and give me a chance.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a creative content producer and visual storyteller based in Nashville, TN. I specialize in photography, videography, and digital content creation—particularly in capturing live moments, through a cinematic and authentic lens. My work focuses on telling real stories, and creating emotional connections.
Currently, I work part-time as a Fan Services Representative for both the Tennessee Titans and the Nashville Predators, where I get to stay close to the energy of live events and sports culture. I also work full-time as a front desk receptionist, balancing my professional responsibilities while continuing to build my creative brand on the side.
I’m most known for my ability to capture energy and emotion in the moment. I focus on bringing out the raw, human side of each story.
What I’m most proud of is how far I’ve come. Being self-taught, I started shooting on my iPhone with no formal training—just a passion to create and a willingness to learn. Since then, I’ve taught myself the craft, invested in professional equipment like the Sony A7III, and built a portfolio that reflects consistency, growth, and purpose.
What sets me apart is my journey. I didn’t come through a traditional media or film program—I came through sports, service, self-motivation, and hustle. That background gives me a unique edge: I know how to work under pressure, adapt on the fly, and create meaningful content with whatever resources I have.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
My biggest advice for anyone just starting out is: start with what you have, stay consistent, and don’t wait for permission. It’s easy to think you need all the best gear or a perfect setup to get started, but what matters most is your eye, your effort, and your willingness to keep learning.
Another thing I’d say is: don’t be afraid to figure things out on your own. A lot of what I’ve learned came from trial and error, watching YouTube tutorials, and just putting in the reps. You won’t have all the answers at first—and that’s okay. What matters is your ability to stay curious and keep improving.
One thing I wish I knew earlier is how much your network matters. As my papa has always tell me — it’s not what you know, it’s who you know. Talent will get you far, but relationships open doors. Talk to people, show up, follow up, and support others in your space. You never know who’s watching or who might remember your name when an opportunity comes up.
Lastly, understand that rejection is part of the process. I’ve applied to media jobs, made it to interviews, and been ghosted or overlooked because I didn’t have the “right” degree—even though I had the work to back it up. It’s frustrating, but it also made me more determined. If you believe in your vision, keep pushing. Someone will see it—and when they do, it’ll be worth it.
You don’t have to follow the traditional path to succeed—just stay true to your voice, put in the work, and keep showing up.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://0620vzn.myportfolio.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/0620vzn/?igsh=M3dqb3V4eG40ajI0&utm_source=qr
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kiara-magee-m-s-4139ab253/
