Taking a peek into our latest string of fall '24 projects, we began this shoot with a clear vision: to create a concept that seamlessly fused futuristic aesthetics with modern design, using LED lights and a meticulously arranged grid. The goal was to craft imagery that not only pushed the boundaries of light and form but also served commercial purposes beyond the camera—a concept meant to resonate on a larger stage. As with any ambitious project, what seemed straightforward on paper quickly turned into a complex puzzle that stretched our creativity and patience to the limit.
The aim was to blend light and form in a way that felt both cutting-edge and strategically aligned with the intended outcome. But soon enough, it felt like we were trying to solve a puzzle where the pieces kept changing shape. Setting up the grid presented its own challenges. We intentionally used the floor for this, as it provided a stable and expansive surface, easier than adjusting tables or other setups. This approach allowed us to create a wide, intricate layout that demanded precision. However, as someone who stands six foot three (6'3"), spending hours hunched over, arranging each element with care, soon became a test of endurance. My hamstrings and lower back had plenty to say about it—none of it good. 😂
Balancing the lighting was another challenge. Working with long exposures—8 to 15 seconds each—meant we needed consistent and controlled lighting throughout the entire exposure. Using strobes wasn’t an option here; their short bursts of light wouldn’t have provided the continuous illumination necessary for the look we were aiming for. Instead, I feathered constant light into specific areas, carefully adjusting the intensity and angles to ensure the LEDs retained their vivid glow without overpowering the entire shot.
Then there was the matter of the LED strips themselves. The layout required that we cut and reassemble the strips in a way that was not only wired correctly but also concealed from view. This involved a lot of careful planning and on-the-spot adjustments to keep the wiring out of the frame while maintaining the structural integrity of the design. It was like trying to hide the seams in a finely tailored suit—essential for the final look but challenging to execute under the time constraints.
And then there was the ladder. With a top-down perspective being essential for the shot, I found myself balancing on the very edge of a ladder, trying to keep steady while capturing those long exposures. It’s one thing to maintain focus on the technical aspects—like ensuring the lighting and composition were perfect—but doing so while teetering on the brink added an extra layer of challenge. The long exposures required absolute stillness, which is easier said than done when you’re trying not to wobble or, worse, take an unintended dive.
On top of that, focusing on the monorail, inserting the film holder, and removing the dark slide—all crucial steps—introduced potential vibrations, since the camera is at a 90-degree angle. Each movement had to be as smooth as possible to avoid any unwanted shifts in the frame. Despite the physical strain and the precarious balancing act, there was a moment when everything clicked. The lights aligned, the grid held its shape, and we finally saw the concept come to life. But, as always, the real test was yet to come: the shoot itself. With everything in place, the pressure was on to make sure that the final images captured the essence of the original vision. It wasn’t without its hiccups—let’s just say the lights had their own ideas about when to shine—but through quick thinking and teamwork, we pulled it off.
The shoot had its fair share of hurdles, but that’s just part of the gig. In the end, the images speak for themselves—unexpected, challenging, and somehow exactly what we were aiming for, even if the path there wasn’t what we planned.
We’re not ones to dwell on what’s done, though. There’s always another concept around the corner, another challenge waiting to keep us on our toes. But for now, we’ll take a moment to appreciate this one before diving into whatever comes next. Keep an eye out for the final images.
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