From a Whim to a Telly Award: Nicco Berry on Leaps of Faith and Creative Confirmation
- Jun 19
- 4 min read
At Rhythm Visions Production Company, we believe that art isn't just about the final product. Art is about the journey, the risks, and the quiet moments of confirmation that tell you you're on the right path. Recently, we had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with our own videographer and creative collaborator, Nicco Berry, for an honest, heartfelt conversation about his artistic journey.
Fresh off a Silver Telly Award win for videography and cinematography, Nicco is a man riding a wave of well-earned recognition. But as you'll hear in our full audio interview below, his story isn't just about trophies. It's about quitting a stable job to chase a whim, finding joy in the chaos of creation, and learning that sometimes, the best thing you can do is just show up with your camera and see what happens.
This is his story.
The "No Niche" Approach to Artistry
If you look up Nicco Berry online, you won't find a narrow lane. And that's exactly how he likes it.
"I think that's one of the things that's kind of like a downfall for me," he jokes early in the interview. "I don't have a niche. I kind of do any and everything."
But for Nicco, that versatility is a superpower and not a weakness. From conferences and music videos to intimate events and now documentaries, his goal is singular: make the viewer feel like they were there. "I think you'll kind of get a sense as if you're there," he explains. "Whatever I'm doing, you'll feel like you're at the event with me."
That immersive quality is what sets his work apart. Whether he's capturing a high-energy concert or a quiet moment of reflection, Nicco's lens invites you into the room. And for a self-described introvert who admits to having stage fright, being behind the camera is the perfect place to connect.
The Silver Telly Moment: A Confirmation Six Years in the Making
No conversation with Nicco would be complete without celebrating the massive win. Alongside CEO and Founder Renita Martin and team members Jules, Corey, Dana, Nicco recently took home a Silver Telly Award for their work on Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority's Safety First. Every Shift, Every Decision. But here's the kicker: he wasn't expecting it at all.
"I quit my job six years ago to chase a dream," he recalls. When he got the text about the win, he was scrambling to find the listing on the Telly website. "When I saw that it was for videography and cinematography… I almost cried."
For Nicco, the award wasn't just a pat on the back. It was a lifeline. "It just kind of really showed that I'm doing the right thing," he says. "Sometimes it gets worse… you know, the award is really, in a sense, like, alright, cool. Keep going."
This is the reality of the freelance artist life: moments of quiet doubts, the "maybe I should get a job" thoughts, and the moments of grace that pull you back from the ledge. The Silver Telly wasn't just a win for the team; it was a reminder that the leap of faith was worth it.
Overcoming Through Art: The Documentary That Hits Close to Home
Nicco's recent work on the Overcoming Through Art documentary created by our most recent Career Pathways cohort was more than just an editing gig. It was a mirror.
"Like, I just thought about this right now," he says, pausing. "It's kind of what I'm going through. Damn, sometimes I want to quit. But my heart is like, I can overcome this through my art."
The documentary, which explores how art has supported young people in their personal journeys, allowed Nicco to step into a mentorship role. He didn't just edit; he handed cameras to the students, had them mic people up, and encouraged them to ask the hard questions. Watching their progression from "laid back" to "arguing over ideas" and getting "mad if I didn't bring the extra camera" was the real reward.
"I think that's really cool," he says. "And for the audience as well as the students to see some of their work… I think that's going to inspire them, whether it's this or whatever they do decide to create."
The documentary is a testament to the power of community and the healing nature of creative expression. And for Nicco, it was a full-circle moment—a chance to combine his love for teaching with his passion for visual storytelling.
What He's Listening To Right Now
As we do with all our collaborators, we asked Nicco to pull back the curtain on his current playlist. His rotation is a vibe:
Curren$y and Larry June – "Always in my rotation. I used to live in the Bay Area, so when I listen to Larry June, it makes me feel like I'm there."
Petrel – "A legend in the DC area. I keep going back to that album."
Drake's Iceman – "Honestly, I haven't been a fan of his last three or four albums, but this one's cool. I can listen to this one."
And of course, Gracie's Corner – "If you know, you know."
It's a mix that reflects his eclectic, no-niche approach—from underground hip-hop to kids' music, he's always keeping it fresh.
The Takeaway: Show Up, Stay Loose, and Keep Going
Nicco Berry's journey is a reminder that artistry isn't about having all the answers. It's about showing up, trusting your instincts, and finding joy in the process even in rocky times. His work with Rhythm Visions Production Company, from the Silver Telly win to the Overcoming Through Art documentary, proves that when you pour your heart into what you do, the universe tends to take notice.
As he puts it, "It's cool. I get to say I won an award for doing something that I just started on a whim."
And honestly? That's the energy we all need to carry forward.
Listen to the Full Conversation
To hear Nicco's full interview—including his thoughts on mentorship, the DC arts scene, and what it really felt like to win that Telly—press play below.
Stay tuned for the release of the "Overcoming Through Art" documentary and follow Nicco's work at Berry Creative Studios (launching June 19th) and on Instagram @BerryCreativeStudios .
For more conversations with the artists and collaborators of Rhythm Visions Production Company, subscribe to our newsletter and keep checking the blog.
