'Tis the Season to Get Creative: The Joy of Holiday Shoots
With the holiday season just around the corner, I couldn't be more excited to share why we love them so much at Dowell & Co.! Brands and photographers alike get to let loose, think big, and create unforgettable moments that leave a lasting impression. I also have been called "Chris Kringle" to my face, so I might be a little partial to the season.
Mark as Santa.
Think Like an Elf: When Gunner Kennels asked me to help them create something special my mind instantly went to the ultimate symbol of wonder: the snow globe. I had never made one before, but I knew it could be done. Inspired by the classic aesthetic of a red vintage truck with a Christmas tree, Gunner Kennels and I worked together to fabricate a mini kennel that would fit our small-scale ride. After losing a LOT of water to the studio floor, we had success!
A Real Sleigh Ride: Admittedly, holiday shoots can get a bit chaotic. There is nothing like running from store to store searching for 1/12th scale moose mount, or following someone home because they were driving the PERFECT vintage red Chevy pick-up truck, but getting to open an email after the clients get the deliverables makes it all worth it!
The final snow globe - in motion.
Creating Timeless Holiday Memories: Creating a holiday lodge inside of a Gunner Kennel was also not without its challenges, but I will never forget what it felt like to see weeks of work come together! Who knew that doll furniture came in so many different sizes! We used renderings to put the client's mind at ease as we built our cabin wall by wall. From the custom stone fireplace, working chandelier, and Christmas decor, this cabin tested our crafting abilities to the max. In the end, we pushed through and had a tiny, cozy cabin complete with a flickering fire in the fireplace.
As we gear up for the holiday season, remember that holiday shoots aren't just about meeting deadlines—they're about making dreams come to life. It's a time to collaborate and pour the spirit of the season into every shot. Let's dive into this festive season with creativity, fun, and the determination to make it truly memorable! 🎄✨
The Gunnel Kennel cabin - during a light snow.
And a special shout out to Alonna Morrison at Gunner Kennels for being an incredible creative partner and to my incredible wife and the "Co." in Dowell & Co, Mindy Taliaferro, NCIDQ, for taking on the role of head elf and helping me space plan and build all the props shown here!
Pointing Christmas trees.