This project is a great example of how in the creative process, perseverance can lead to a more effective final product. The video is a Mount Holyoke College giving appeal to young alumnae. In the video, Mary Lyon, who is like MHC's mascot, comes back from the grave and appears all over campus. She pronounces some of the advice she is best known for, in addition to a new piece of advice: to take the 175th Challenge! For young alumnae, it was a priority to use humor because giving can be a touchy subject (many alumnae still have college debt). This piece showcases my off-beat, yet heartfelt sense of humor. 

The video had many incarnations, including the draft below.

The four-month process that eventually led to the "She's Back" video was challenging. Key to working through these challenges was listening closely to feedback and bringing to life ideas that were innovative, yet fit within the look and feel of Mount Holyoke College. The result is a piece I feel is clear, succinct, and resonant with the target audience.

In honor of the start of the Year of the Snake in the Chinese calendar, I thought I'd write about a shoot I did recently with these fabulous creatures. 

Mount Holyoke College's Pagan and Wiccan Collective brought Serpentessa to the College for an event called "Serpents in the Labyrinth." The opportunity to work with the "21st Century Snake Priestess" was irresistible. Participants received an orientation outlining respectful handling the snakes, walked the labyrinth with the snakes, and were led in meditation while draped in snakes. We were invited to do a photo shoot in the last hour of the 5 hour event.

Because the shoot was just for fun, I didn't bring my lights—something I regretted upon entering the room. Aside from helping dramatically in the poorly-lit room, the snakes probably would have appreciated the lights' warmth. 

The general agreement among participants was that the event was "a once in a lifetime experience." For me, I hope it isn't the only time I get to shoot snakes. Though the overall vibe in the room was a gentle and peaceful one, the attention of a snake is something not easily forgotten. At one instance, a boa made right for the camera. Although I'm neither unfamiliar with nor afraid of snakes, the experience was unnerving. 

Client: Knack: the art of clever reuse. 
Location: Signature Sounds Parlor Room, Northampton, MA
Gear: Canon 60D HDSLR, Canon XH-A1s

Knack is about community, creativity, sustainability, and education, making a perfect Pioneer Valley venture. I'm excited to be producing a video for Knack to kick off their crowd-funding campaign. This piece will help raise the money necessary to find a permanent home for this great start-up. 

We had the pleasure of shooting at Signature Sounds' Parlor Room, which is a concert venue/multi-use space (it hosted Knack's Holiday Pop-Up Shops in November and December). The big windows, handy shoji screens, and awesome red walls made a nice backdrop to the shoot. 

Amber and Macey's enthusiasm for Knack as well as the amazing visuals to work with made for solid material. In addition to Macey and Amber, I worked with Emily and Guy, two local artists who embody the Knack spirit, using at least 75% upcycled materials (materials that would otherwise end up in a landfill).  With the help of my lovely assistant, Lauren, the morning was productive as well as fun.