Capturing the Energy of Commencement
When GUS Medical Schools reached out about covering their commencement events in Providence, Rhode Island, I knew it would be one of those memorable projects that blends storytelling, emotion, and logistical precision.
From the start, our goal was clear: document the celebration of achievement for the graduating class and share it with both immediacy and long-term value. Over two days, my team and I set out to capture not only the key moments with photography and video, but also the emotions, connections, and energy that make commencements so special.
Day 1: Portraits, Testimonials, and B-Roll of Providence
Our first day focused on pre-event content — filming testimonials from students, alumni, and staff and taking portraits for use across social media and future marketing materials. These conversations gave us an authentic glimpse into the heart of their community. We also spent time capturing b-roll footage of the Providence area. These scenes add a sense of place to the story and ground the visuals in the city where these graduates built their dreams.
Day 2: Commencement Day
This is where the magic happens. With a three-person team, we covered video and photography from multiple angles — the ceremony, speakers, and all the candid moments in between. We didn’t just capture people walking across a stage. We told the story of joy, pride, and reflection.
At times, after the event winds down, I may step in to gently direct a subject to repeat something they just did — maybe from a better angle or with a little more breathing room to capture the emotion. It’s a blend of photojournalism and commercial lifestyle photography. I’m not asking anyone to strike a pose. Instead, I’m tuning in to the real emotions and helping those moments live a little longer so the camera can catch what the heart already feels.
It’s not just about getting a shot of the podium. It’s about spotting the personalities, the subtle expressions, and the emotional connections. A graduate holding up a photo of a loved one. A quiet tear in the crowd. The laughter shared after the ceremony when people are embracing and celebrating together. These are the moments that matter.
My background in photojournalism — from years of working with newspapers and magazines — deeply informs how I approach these kinds of events. I’ve spent decades capturing authentic moments, reading the energy of a space, and documenting stories as they unfold. But I’ve also taken those skills into commercial and lifestyle productions, where I work with actors and models to create visual campaigns for businesses. At a live event like this, I’m wearing both hats. I begin with my photojournalist instincts, capturing the raw, emotional truth of the moment. Then, I’ll switch gears when needed, stepping in as a producer and director to help shape scenes that might benefit from a little guidance. It’s not about staging — it’s about ensuring we walk away with strong visuals that tell the story fully, even if it means recreating a moment to make sure it lands.
From Shoot to Screen: Fast Turnaround and Future Use
After the event, I quickly edited and released select photography for social media coverage, allowing the school and its community to share in the celebration. The final videos were produced and delivered shortly after the event, providing the school with polished content that will serve both as a memory and a marketing tool for years to come.
Why I Love This Work
There’s something powerful about working with a team where everyone is focused on the same goal. On projects like this, we’re constantly communicating, supporting each other, and balancing precision with spontaneity.
That’s the real art behind live event production. You go in with a plan, but you have to stay alert. You watch for what’s unfolding and be ready to move when something unexpected happens. It’s very different from a controlled studio shoot. You need instinct, timing, and the flexibility to adapt.
And I love every minute of it.