Photography
Photography & Video
Photography
Subjects
Our photography embodies the Gaels spirit and how the people of Saint Mary’s create the community. We capture individuals up close and from various angles to show them engaged; dynamic movement conveys a sense of action and involvement. Subjects are seldom directed to look directly at the camera, allowing for a more authentic and candid portrayal. In the composition of images, we incorporate negative space to accommodate type and graphic overlay.
Look & Feel
Our imagery focuses on what makes SMC special, emphasizing the genuine moments and a sense of place. We aim for bright, bold, sunny, and colorful visuals that maintain a natural look without being overly saturated. We avoid situations with poor lighting, cluttered background, or lack of dynamic action, such as dim fluorescent lighting during lectures.
Goals
The ultimate goal is to show rather than tell, capturing someone in their element, doing research in the lab, or working in an environment that reflects their character, rather than merely presenting them receiving an award. We also highlight the interaction between faculty and staff with students, favoring action shots over stagnant, posed photographs.
Learn more about Photography Project Guidelines and Requests here:
Brilliant Wide
Wide photography emphasizes unique landscapes and interior spaces that define the Saint Mary’s College experience. Whenever possible, incorporate engaged individuals or groups interacting with their surroundings, allowing space for movement and visual storytelling.
Dynamic Detail
In detail photography, prioritize human engagement with active poses and lively movement. Offer glimpses of the behind-the-scenes Saint Mary’s lifestyle, capturing its energy and vibrancy.
Engaged & Diverse Subjects
Subject photography may feature individuals or groups actively engaged with their environment or one another. Avoid direct gazes at the camera to maintain authenticity and spontaneity.
Composition & Cropping
The “Rule of Thirds” stands as a fundamental guideline in photography. Envisioning the image divided into thirds horizontally and vertically, placing points of interest along these lines or at their intersections, enhances the viewer’s natural interaction with the photo. Even if a photo has poor composition initially, applying the “Rule of Thirds” during cropping can significantly elevate its visual appeal.
Visual Variety for all Platforms
All shoots will contain a variety of images that will work in horizontal, square, and vertical formats. Photography is guided by the intended publishing platform, while also taking special care to capture a variety of images for secondary uses. Subjects appear different sizes in each frame (wide, medium, close-up) to work seamlessly with various platforms and to allow for text/graphic overlays.
Video
Video serves as a powerful and compelling medium for communication and storytelling, regardless of the audience, message, purpose, or platform. To optimize your video communications and leverage the recognition and affinity for the Saint Mary’s brand, follow these guidelines.
Define Your Goal
Start your video project by using a creative brief to clearly define your objectives, identify your audience, and establish a strategic focus.
Leverage Our Brand Assets
Incorporate our brand attributes and key messages thoughtfully through imagery and visual storytelling. Utilize our graphic elements to add energy and strengthen brand recognition throughout the video.
Be Concise
Keep your videos short and impactful to maximize viewer engagement. Precision in storytelling will maintain audience interest. Use footage to convey emotions and visuals, and use text to supplement the message when necessary, avoiding overwhelming the viewer with both at once.
Quality is Clarity
Ensure your video is easy to see and hear for maximum impact. Utilize equipment like tripods, external microphones, and lighting kits for better results. Even when shooting with a smartphone, explore simple techniques to optimize your work and enhance overall quality.
Learn more about Video Project Guidelines and Requests here: