Creator Spotlight: Nicole, a multi-creative and badass filmmaker, discusses her incredible filmmaking journey as well as her various artistic endeavours.

If you’ve watched all of Season 1’s episodes of PEEKER by Madeaux and wondered who was behind the video’s production and editing, you’ve come to the right place. I got to speak with Nicole, who produced and edited all of these episodes, and I had a great time talking about the beautiful art of filmmaking.

As we peeled back the layers of Nicole’s life, from passion to life and money, it became clear to me that Nicole not only creates beautiful content but is also an amazing person.

Please enjoy!

Who is Nicole?

Nicole is a multi-creative, or someone with many creative talents but a passion for filmmaking. She is a video creator, freelancer, and Pan-Atlantic University film student.

Oh, that’s interesting; I’d like to learn more about other creative abilities; could you share a few examples?

I used to be a performer, so I can sing and dance. I also write poetry and prose. I may be rusty at this, but I also draw and paint, so I’m good with colours, which explains my design talent. This may seem unrelated, but it’s worth mentioning: I’m an athlete as well, having participated in a variety of sports but focusing on basketball and track.

What is one interesting fact or attribute of your personality that most people are unaware of?

I’m a badass cook 😁 and I love cooking. It is one thing that truly gives me joy.

How did you get started in filmmaking?

It all began in 200 level. I still had no idea what I wanted to do with my life 😅 But I attended this photography class and everything changed. Held a DLSR camera for the first time and I just had this spark. Everything felt natural and as days progressed, I fell more in love with video than photography. And here we are today.

Just the mere art of telling stories with the camera is fascinating. As well as evoking emotion with visuals.

Which of your projects do you consider mind-blowing?

I don’t think I’ve created anything mind-blowing YET (emphasis on the ‘yet’) but I think the project I’m pretty proud of so far is Madeaux’s Peeker Season 1. I produced and edited all the episodes and they all had an amazing reception. It was hectic but worth it. I had fun.

Do you consider filmmaking and everything you do a business?

I have to. It’s how I make a living. Asides from making social media content which I mostly do for fun, when doing gigs or working on projects, I always have the business cap on, so apart from making good visuals, I could make good visuals that would sell.

How long have you been managing this business?

I started freelancing early this year actually but went into it fully in August.

What’s the most money you’ve made from freelancing?

500K

What is your perspective on money and how do you manage money?

I’m still trying to figure that out 😂 but I’m heavy on saving at least 15–20% of any income. Sometimes I’d save up to 50%.

When you are not filming or schooling, what are you doing?

Cooking and watching/studying movies 🙂

What future do you envisage for the Nicoleelvina brand?

If God wills, I see it growing into an empire that would be central to beautiful African storytelling

How do you use Fidia?

I use Fidia for my portfolio and invoicing 😊. The invoicing feature’s been the best.

Why is the invoicing feature your favourite?

It makes transactions easier for me. Also makes my invoices look modern and professional. The payment feature also hastens the process as well as the reminder feature. Overall, just makes life easier for me and also makes my clients take me seriously 😅. Because people don’t take freelancers seriously. With that invoice, I could also put my logo which adds to the professional look.

Any final words for those interested in becoming a filmmaker or owning a creative business like yours?

Be patient and don’t give up. Let passion drive you first. If you’re looking at this industry as a get-rich-quick scheme, then you’re in for a BIG surprise 😂.