I am a self-starting non-fiction filmmaker with 8 years of comprehensive experience across the full spectrum of video production. I specialize in delivering end-to-end production services, often working as a solo operator to bring stories to life through impactful video content. My work spans branded, political, and advocacy campaigns where I produce, shoot, and edit platform-specific videos, ensuring that visuals align with clear messaging goals. I thrive in coordinating all aspects of production under tight deadlines with a focus on emotional and narrative clarity.…

Shelby Zoe Coley

I am a self-starting non-fiction filmmaker with 8 years of comprehensive experience across the full spectrum of video production. I specialize in delivering end-to-end production services, often working as a solo operator to bring stories to life through impactful video content. My work spans branded, political, and advocacy campaigns where I produce, shoot, and edit platform-specific videos, ensuring that visuals align with clear messaging goals. I thrive in coordinating all aspects of production under tight deadlines with a focus on emotional and narrative clarity.…

Available to hire

I am a self-starting non-fiction filmmaker with 8 years of comprehensive experience across the full spectrum of video production. I specialize in delivering end-to-end production services, often working as a solo operator to bring stories to life through impactful video content.

My work spans branded, political, and advocacy campaigns where I produce, shoot, and edit platform-specific videos, ensuring that visuals align with clear messaging goals. I thrive in coordinating all aspects of production under tight deadlines with a focus on emotional and narrative clarity.

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Work Experience

Video Producer, Camera Operator, Editor at ShelbyWorks
July 31, 2025 - August 13, 2025
Produced, shot, and edited platform-specific video content across branded, political, and advocacy campaigns for clients such as Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez for Congress and MediaJustice. Managed all production aspects including research, scheduling, and resource coordination to deliver accurate and timely videos. Captured live moments, interviews, and behind-the-scenes footage focusing on emotional and narrative clarity. Directed talent, managed technical equipment, and delivered polished edits under tight deadlines.
Consulting Story Producer - Documentary at "TimeHunter"
April 30, 2025 - August 13, 2025
Collaborated with directors to shape narrative structure and thematic through-lines. Developed and refined voice-over scripts to enhance emotional and narrative clarity. Advised on integrating staged and vérité scenes to maintain tonal and narrative cohesion. Provided editorial feedback on cuts to strengthen pacing, clarity, and character development. Tracked story arcs and visual motifs throughout production.
Camera Operator, Gaffer - Documentary at Shipibo Conibo Center of NY
December 31, 2024 - August 13, 2025
Operated camera and lighting equipment to capture interviews, vérité scenes, and B-roll. Worked closely with director and director of photography to frame shots and plan lighting. Adjusted camera settings and movements in real-time to match tone and environment. Directed lighting crew and maintained safe, consistent setups across multiple locations. Troubleshot technical issues and managed media workflows efficiently.
Camera Operator - Documentary at Various
October 31, 2023 - August 13, 2025
Operated cameras for interviews, vérité, and B-roll footage on multiple documentary projects including "TimeHunter," "The First Wave," and "She's Revolutionary." Collaborated virtually with directors and DPs to frame key story moments. Coordinated with other camera operators for cohesive coverage and adapted to changing environments and tones. Maintained and optimized cinema-level equipment and troubleshot technical issues.
Cinematographer - Branded Content at Girls Write Now
October 31, 2021 - August 13, 2025
Set up and operated cameras for interviews and B-roll in an impact advertising campaign highlighting young female writers. Collaborated with directors and creative producers to create visually compelling story-driven shots. Managed exposure, focus, white balance, and frame rates across diverse settings. Selected lenses and controlled camera movement to complement the desired tone. Directed talent and troubleshot technical issues, designing mobile lighting solutions as needed.
Director - Branded Content at Patient Forward
October 31, 2020 - August 13, 2025
Managed end-to-end production of a cause-driven advertisement from concept through final delivery. Co-wrote emotionally resonant scripts with creative teams to meet campaign objectives. Directed crew and talent, capturing multi-angle footage efficiently under tight timelines. Edited videos focusing on narrative clarity, pacing, and emotional impact. Collaborated with messaging consultants to align visuals with advocacy goals.

Education

International Business at Howard University
September 1, 2013 - May 31, 2014

Qualifications

Add your qualifications or awards here.

Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment, Non-Profit Organization