Month: November 2022

My strongest first impressions of the photo/video industry are the similarities in crossover to design, specifically in terms of what you’re capable of doing. The first example that comes to mind was our very first presenter, Paolo Tossolini. His work opened my eyes to using different means of equipment in unique ways that are unexpected and highly inventive. I’d heard of the Matterport system prior to his presentation and I’d only considered its use for housing and real estate purposes, but after seeing his work and hearing his perspective of generating ideas it completely changed the way I view possibilities in equipment/programs. It was great to see something that is typically used in one setting for other experiences that take you far outside of the box. This gave me the impression that opportunities are only limited if you make them that way, otherwise if you’re experimenting with ideas and keeping an open mind, possibilities can be unlimited; it’s really changed  the way I approach many projects at this point. I felt it was also a great example of using both worlds of photo and design in a truly unique way. 

This past week was my first week of narrative filmmaking and it opened my eyes to the world of video for the first time. I was surprised by what I learned: each camera angle serves a specific purpose of drawing the viewer in and telling a story in order to evoke emotion and comprehension. And now it’s challenging me to approach these projects in the same manner which is a whole new adventure.  It’s exciting because I can tell that I’m already taking this knowledge and starting to think in a completely new way for myself. Even when watching show and movies I can’t help but pay more attention to all of these elements. I don’t know how I’ll use this knowledge down the road but just having it will certainly benefit me at some point or at least give me better insight.  

Overall, what I’m finding is that there’s plenty of crossover in both industries. I didn’t think that this would be the case when I initially started the program because my mentality was that they’re two completely separate industries. Of course they still can be in some ways, but depending on my approach there’s a lot of crossover that can be highly inventive and almost untapped. I’m very much looking forward to seeing what challenges I’m able to overcome if I keep an open mind and consider the vast possibilities that could potentially include crossover of both realms in my work. 

Think Big: 

This is a principle that seems to come most naturally to me. I’ve always been somewhat of a dreamer and thinking big has never been an issue when I’m feeling properly supported. A recent example was thinking big on a project for school; at first the idea seemed unclear because it almost seemed like a big idea that might be “too big,” too complex and many minute details to figure out in order for the project to make sense. But once the smaller details were worked out the project began to thrive and take on an identity that really set it apart. I look back on this project and feel somewhat proud because it shows that thinking big can bring big results when there’s persistence and you’re able to maintain the vision when working out the difficult details. 

Deliver Results:

A recent example of delivering results was when I took on the role of Inventory & Delivery manager at my current job. Leading up to this, the coffee shop I work at seemed to be struggling with maintaining inventory and it became obvious to customers that this was becoming a regular issue. Not only were customers frustrated, but the frustration amongst the staff was becoming increasingly obvious, especially when being put in the position of dealing with customer backlash. Something needed to change, so I suggested that I take on the role, since then many of these issues have cleared up. The staff is much happier, as well as customers, and it sends a clear message that once a problem arises the willingness to solve that problem is there. 

Learn and Be Curious: 

This is a principle I value in many realms of my life and one that has gotten me through some tough times. Whenever I feel like learning and curiosity has left the room, I have also left the room so to speak. I lose purpose and focus all at once and feel completely lost. This has become a huge indicator for me when knowing when to move on and start anew, something that hasn’t come naturally. I was somewhat raised to tough it out and keep pushing through even if difficulties arise, which has led to some pretty terrible situations of feeling as if my entire identity had disappeared. I’ve come to realize that sometimes knowing when to move on is the best thing a person can do for themselves. If learning and curiosity is no longer present, then it’s time to move on. 

Frugality:

This would be the most difficult principle for me to adopt because I don’t currently believe frugality is something to strive for when being creative, especially if I were working for a multi-billion dollar corporation. I believe investment in time and money is key to building long lasting, high quality relationships in order to fully understand a customer base. Providing high quality products that are well thought out and that have long lasting impact, not only is beneficial for the customer, but also the surrounding environment.