Last October Varient, a media company, contacted me about playing the part of a landscape photographer in an up and coming TV commercial they were developing for 123RF. 123RF is a stock photography agency that hired them for their Create & Inspire campaign. Their goal was to use real artists to play the part of their creative occupation. I was thrilled for the opportunity, though nervous about being in front the camera.
The filming took place throughout various locations in Portland, Oregon, including Multhomah Falls. I never knew there were so many people that let their homes be rented out for television and movies!
Varient brought their own team of professionals but also hired people in Portland who were experienced in media production as additional crew. This Portland crew had done movies and TV shows throughout the Pacific Northwest. They all seemed to know each other from other jobs. There were PA’s (Production Assistants), a Make-Up Artist, Craft Services (provided food on the set), Productions Designers and a videographer doing behind the scenes footage and interviews.
The cast consisted of a videographer, little girl, graphic designer, landscape photographer and drummer. All the cast were actually playing the part of their professions, except the little girl. The little girl ended up being cut out as 123RF wanted real creatives playing their parts. She was a hired actor.
Not only was I hired to be a part of the cast, but I was hired to be the Still Photographer and shoot behind the scenes footage during the three days of filming and participate in video tutorials for the campaign. Needless to say the days were busy and long.
I learned a lot during this assignment about working on a production set. It was an amazing experience, one that I won’t soon forget. The team and the other professionals involved were great people to work with. There was a ton of talent involved that just blew me away!
When it comes to photography, I have learned to be open to the possibilities. When you are open to try new things there will be opportunities that can come your way never before imaged.
Watch the behind the scenes video!
For more video footage & photos, visit 123RF.
Professionals involved worth mentioning:
- Danny Erb, Film Director
- Gina Resnick, Creative Director
- Eric Cook, Production Executive
- Tyler Jensen, Set Designer
- Powell Robinson, Videographer
Matt Mastrantuono of Blurred Lens – Matt did behind the scenes videos and tutorials.
Make Up Artist, Kim Donohue
Jade Harris, Set Design & Wardrobe
Valerie Brogden – Percussionist, Drummer
Josh Doll – Graphic Designer
Brandon Bondehagen – Videographer