I have always loved hearing and sharing people’s stories. When I was 8 years old my mom bought me a digital tape recorder and I would go up to strangers in stores asking them to share their life stories. A few years later this progressed into filming on a Flip Camcorder.
My love of video journalism really blossomed in 2015 when I created a brand “Bringing Smart Back” at 15 years old. Bringing Smart Back was an educational YouTube channel, website, Instagram and Facebook page making fun and educational videos for children. During the 5 years that I created content and ran the brand I interviewed many people in the community sharing their skill and knowledge on various topics and vocations; firefighters, local cotton gin, hot air balloons, the crew of the touring Columbus Ships and was recognized by Alpha Omega Publications as one of the “10 Instagram Accounts Homeschoolers Should Follow” as well as marketing deal with Molly Green Magazine and GreatProducts.com.
In 2018 I began making photo and video content for my new brand Princess Keilee. For these photos and videos I used local locations to create whimsical and magical content.
In 2022 I became the Social Media Manager and Content Creator at Decatur Morgan County Tourism! With this position I’m able to share fun lighthearted videos about local attractions, trails, and events but also share important history and moving stories in our community.
There are many reasons why I love video journalism. One of the main reasons is that it allows me to visually tell a story in a way that words alone cannot. I can capture the emotions, expressions, and actions of the people involved in a story, bringing it to life in a way that engages and connects with audiences on a deeper level.
Video journalism also allows me to be creative in my storytelling, using techniques such as music, editing, and visual effects to enhance the narrative and draw viewers in. I enjoy the challenge of finding unique angles and perspectives to tell a story in a compelling and impactful way.
Another reason I love video journalism is the power it has to inform and educate, as well as to provoke thought and inspire action. Through video journalism, I can shine a light on important issues, give a voice to the voiceless, and show others a perspective they may have not considered.
Video journalism is a powerful tool that allows me to combine my passion for storytelling with my desire to create meaningful and impactful content.
One of my favorite forms of video journalism is storytelling through interviews.
With Decatur Morgan County Tourism and The Princess Theatre Center For The Performing Arts I’ve had the opportunity to meet incredible people and share their stories!
Local History:
Daylan Woodall, Pastor of 150 year old First Missionary Baptist Church In Decatur. He shared about the church’s history and its invaluable stained glass.
Frances Tate, the founder of CEOTA “Celebrating Early Old Town with Art” discussed the impact of the historic Scottsboro Trail and the upcoming Scottsboro Boys Museum.
Inspiring Community Leaders:
Lauren Cantrell, a Theatre Instructor at Alabama Center For The Arts told her story of growing up participating in local theater companies to becoming a local theatre mentor.
Jen Dicarlo, the Managing Director at the Princess Theater shares her love for this iconic landmark in our community and introduces herself as the new Managing Director.
Cindy Small, local author, artist, survivor and self proclaimed “Grand Mistress Of Kitsch” shares her story of being displaced after Katrina, her battle with cancer and the inspiration behind her art.
Kim Mitchell, Executive Director at the Carnegie Visual Arts Center tells about the social impact of local Carnegie Carnival Mardi Gras events.
River City Mom, a locally woman-ran resource for parents in the community. COO Lindsey Barron discusses the benefits of River City Mom.
Performing Artists:
Charles Esten, comedian and actor known for his roles in “Who’s Line Is It Anyway”, “Nashville” and “Outer Banks” disuses his new album and upcoming performance at the Princess Theatre.
Sean Of The South, A southern author, musician and storyteller tells why he loves The Historic Princess Theatre
Suzy Bogguss, Country Music Singer and Songwriter shares her story making a career in Country Music and her latest album “Prayin’ For Sunshine”.
Goldpine, an Americana duo shares their story, discusses their most recent a album “Two” and promotes their show at the Princess Theatre.
Bankstreet Players “Diary Of Anne Frank” cast interview. The McMahan family; Mother Melissa and two daughters Anna Kate and Madeline share what it’s like portraying these historic figures and preforming alongside family.
Steve Trash, Magician, Performer and Environmentalists shares his live long love of magic and passion for science!
Russell Mefford, local musician shares his musical journey.
Tyler Merritt, Author, Speaker and Activist speaks about his book “I Take My Coffee Black”.
Sons Of The East, an Australian Folk Band discusses their first U.S tour, their music, explains Australian phrases and learns a little bit about American southern sports.
Community Highlights:
American Cruise Line Riverboat Cruises stop in Decatur for half a day of shopping, exploring and discovering local history and charm.
Pickleball in Decatur. Keilee Terry catches up with local pickleball ballers to showcase the fun, social and healthy benefits of this widely growing sport.
Easton visits the Historic Train Depot. Young train enthusiast Easton traveled hours with his father to visit local Decatur Train after seeing the location on VirtualRailfan.com
Highlighting the new Bike Share Program in Decatur.
Local Location Videos:
Sonny Side Alley
Bates Farm
Hidden Rivers Farms
Point Mallard Water Park
Carnegie Visual Arts Center
Don’s Mercantile
Frazier Park
Local Event Videos:
River Clay Fine Arts Festival
Wheeler Wildlife Refuge’s Festival Of The Cranes
Alabama Jubilee Hot Air Balloon Festival
Dia De Los Muertos
The Enchanted Forest Of Decatur
2023 DMCT Annual Awards Ceremony
