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Colorado-based lifestyle photographer Ken Redding was recently hired by David Miles of Milesbrand for their latest campaign for Neal Communities, a high-end community development group based out of Southwest Florida. Ken has worked with David on numerous projects and even won some awards for them, so naturally, he jumped on the opportunity to work together again.
The objective was to photograph two different communities with two separate target demographics. Grand Palm, representing the 55-65 age group and Boca Grande, representing those under 50 who have kids. Ultimately Ken’s images were to be utilized by the company for collateral, direct mail pieces, sale center wall art and additional advertisements.
The shot list went through a number of approvals with the client, and at one point the process was even postponed due to changes. With all the talent requirements and specific demographics, Ken believes it may have been one of the longest productions he’s been a part of, however, everything was well worth it in the end.
Once the shoot was entirely cast, planned and approved, Ken flew in from Denver and met with his producer, Kevin Gregory. They spent the next two days tech-scouting and nailing down the specifics. For good measure, they did a final walk-through of everything with Art Director, Eric Aluise and the Neal Marketing Director, Leisa Weintraub.
The look we were asked to go for was an animated, short focus feel. I shot primarily in natural light, occasionally using one octabox for fill or as a primary light source. I tried to keep things looking as natural as possible and conveyed that feeling to my talent who were good with natural interactions.
In production, the first shot tends to set the tone for the days to come. Just to turn the heat up a bit on an already thorough shoot, Ken learned the first scenario shot would be of Neal Communities Founder and former Florida State Senator, Patrick Neal. Talk about pressure to impress on day one! Ken knew right off the bat he needed to get him in and out relatively quickly and efficiently.
…we arrived a couple of hours early to get everything set with my lighting and test shots so when Patrick Neal arrived all we had to do was step him into position and direct him a bit.
And that he did, flawlessly.
Mr. Neal was a really great guy, and I got along with him perfectly. I think Leisa was relieved and could see, at that point, how I liked to work.
It didn’t stop there, though. Ken went above and beyond, delivering 50% more for the final library than asked for. An image that wasn’t even compulsory ended up being one of the client’s favorites.
I spoke with Eric…he told me everything worked perfectly and, more importantly, the client loved the images, up and down the chain of command. I received an email from Leisa…saying she “liked working with me.” As a photographer on a production shoot, it’s important to establish and hold a fun and positive atmosphere on set.
This seamless production not only strengthened the relationship between client and agency but between photographer and producer and that, of course, is the goal.
See more of Ken at kenreddingphotography.com