Spotlight: Clint Davis for GM Energy

BY 20 September 2024

Charleston, South Carolina-based photographer Clint Davis recently completed a project for GM Energy. GM Energy is a subsidiary of General Motors that focuses on the development and delivery of energy solutions, especially in the areas of electric infrastructure and renewable energy. The brand aims to leverage its expertise in electric vehicles and battery technology to create a comprehensive ecosystem that supports the transition to a more sustainable and resilient energy future. To debut the GM Energy brand, the client brought on the Dentsu Creative agency and Clint to help capture stills and video for its launch campaign.

This project began thanks to an agency producer from Dentsu Creative who appreciated my strong track record of past work. This was GM’s launch of their venture into energy solutions, covering everything from home to commercial business. The brand aimed for natural, energetic, and sleek imagery.

A photo that captures headlights piercing through the darkness, with a faint streak of red light illuminating the left side of the scene.

Given my extensive experience with automotive and industrial clients, this project was a perfect fit for my skills. The client wanted my signature style, so there was no pressure to adopt a different look.

A photo of two electric vehicles parked side by side in a parking lot, next to a GM Energy power bank.

Preplanning

There was a month of preproduction between Clint, the client, the agency, and the production company leading up to the shoot day.

I collaborated closely with the agency (Dentsu Creative) and my producer (Ink & Oranges) to discuss locations and the required level of grip and electricity on set. Location is always my top priority for any shoot, and we were fortunate to have an amazing and thorough scout to assist us.

A lot of planning went into this shoot, and naturally, there were some nerves. However, all that preparation led to a smooth operation once we began. Nearly 60 people would be on set for the photoshoot, ready to make it happen.

A photo of a man about to plug in a charger in the car dramatically lit with a red tail light.

To satisfy GM Energy’s shot list, Clint and the team needed to secure three separate locations, all of which would need permits due to the size of the crew.

A photo depicting a car parked in front of a brick building, with two workers wearing helmets walking nearby.

A behind-the-scenes photo featuring Clint Davis and his team on set.

For this project, time was the biggest constraint, and locations were the most challenging aspect. We needed residential, commercial, and industrial settings. In the short 4-week planning timeline, we found three excellent spots to capture the shots the client needed, but it was down to the last moment. Despite the pressure, I believe a commercial photographer should be able to make any location work within reason. Every job has challenges, and maintaining a calm and confident demeanor is essential.

A photo showing a parked electric vehicle in a modern residence.

A behind-the-scenes photo showing where a parked electric vehicle was parked in a modern residence.

The Photoshoot

The shoot took place in October 2022. With a team of 60 on set, Clint found himself at the center of the sizeable production.

This was one of my larger jobs where I directed motion while also shooting stills. With more crew on set, I learned to spend less time looking through the lens and more time engaging with the client. Unlike spec work where I focus on getting as many shots as possible, I was more like a host overseeing the production. This shift made having a trusted second shooter who shares your vision immensely important.

A photo depicting two workers wearing helmets next to a parked electric car.

A behind-the-scenes photo depicting two workers wearing helmets next to a parked electric car.

The talent was very easy to work with. While they weren’t THE main focus of the imagery, it was important to provide them with options for holding props, body posture, and facial expressions. Connecting with the talent before shooting helps build a good rapport.

A gif that captures headlights turning on and piercing through the darkness.

Some shots involved an imaginary product that would be added in post-production, which wasn’t a significant challenge. It just required a bit of imagination!

A photo showing a red rear light positioned next to a power bank.

On a final note, Clint shared a seasonal memory from the GM Energy project.

This shoot took place around Halloween, and my girlfriend sneakily packed a small pumpkin in my luggage before I left for the airport. It brought a big smile to my face.