As the lead project manager for a UN Client's Communication and Branding Strategy, I worked with a diverse team of 20 stakeholders, guiding them through the process of crafting a distinctive and impactful communication strategy and brand identity. This involved close collaboration to ensure alignment with the program's objectives and values. Leveraging my experience in project management, branding, communication, facilitation, budgeting, and quality control, I worked with the team to capture the essence of the program and what resonated with its target audience. I also worked closely with the client and strategists to devise an action plan, orchestrating the implementation of various communication channels, including social media campaigns, content development initiatives, informational videos, and a multimedia website. Through strategic planning and effective team management, the UN Client Communication and Branding Strategy was successfully established as a recognizable and influential brand within its sector, fostering enhanced engagement and visibility for the program's mission and goals.
As the curator for each image in the National Geographic issue titled "Your Genes," I ensured that every photograph met NatGeo's standards of visual quality and storytelling. Employing my expertise in photo curation, I applied my understanding of visual pacing, aesthetic coherence, and image quality to craft a narrative that flows throughout the publication. I prioritized originality and authenticity in the images chosen, aiming to enhance the reader's comprehension of the themes explored in the issue. Through my expertise in visual storytelling, I aimed to create a publication that offers readers insight into the world of genetics and human biology. This issue can be purchased on Amazon.
As a consulting photo editor for AARP Media, I had the privilege of developing editorial photography for the esteemed lifestyle publications AARP The Magazine and AARP The Bulletin - both of which have over 36 million readers. With a seasoned understanding of the publications' audience and editorial objectives, I played a pivotal role in shaping the visual narrative of several issues over the course of several years. My responsibilities encompassed a range of tasks, including pitching concepts, developing a curated list of talented photographers, assigning for and directing photo shoots both on location and in studio, and meticulously selecting images that best captured the essence of each story to ensure the desired outcomes were achieved. Additionally, I took on the role of producing supplementary documentary and BTS video footage, further expanding the multimedia offerings of the publications and catering to the evolving preferences of modern audiences. A dynamic range of genres were covered including fashion, travel, portraiture, conceptual, still and celebrity.
Throughout my tenure, I approached each project with a commitment to excellence and a dedication to meeting the high standards set by AARP Media. By leveraging my creative vision and collaborative approach, I contributed to the continued success and relevance of these publications, ensuring they remained at the forefront of visual storytelling in the media landscape. (credit: Sam Kaplan; Daniela Stallinger)
For this project, I spearheaded the production of a promotional video for the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES), overseeing the coordination of multiple teams for global coverage, ensuring comprehensive representation of the organization's work across various regions. Prioritizing clear communication among all creatives, I fostered collaboration and cohesion to seamlessly integrate diverse perspectives. Meticulous planning was essential to maintain consistency of style and message given the varied teams on the ground and different locations. Guiding the process, I led our team of creatives and editors to deliver combined on-location coverage, b-roll capture, and interviews thus crafting a narrative that effectively highlighted IFES's mission and impact. Working closely with the client, I facilitated the development of a script that guided the storytelling process and ensured alignment with IFES's objectives and messaging.
As the Consulting Photo Director at AARP VIVA magazine, I shaped the visual narrative a bilingual publication with over 3 million readers. It was my role to be the guiding force behind every photoshoot, from concept to execution. Emphasizing the diverse and colorful traditions and experiences of the Spanish-speaking American community, the imagery fostered a sense of belonging among readers from various backgrounds, while highlighting rich cultural contributions across art, music, cuisine, and literature. Through integration, the visual narrative of AARP VIVA resonated with the community while effectively communicating valuable knowledge and staying true to AARP's branding. Meanwhile, I had the distinct pleasure of collaborating with some of the industry's top photographers to capture icons such as Raquel Welch, John Leguizamo, Gloria Estefan, Juanes, Chita Rivera, and Eva Longoria - all memorable experiences. During my tenure, we won two Folio Awards (one of the most prestigious honors within the media industry) for Best Cover - the first ever for AARP - and Best Use of Photography. (Credit: Racquel Welch: Art Streiber; Juanes and Leguizame: Omar Cruz).
Heading a small team of creatives in the rebranding of the UN Client Forum's identity was a collaborative journey filled with creative exploration and strategic decision-making. My role encompassed various responsibilities starting with an analysis process to understand the essence of the UN Client Energy Forum and its target audience. This involved analyzing past branding elements, studying industry trends, and identifying key messaging priorities. With a clear understanding of the objectives, I facilitated brainstorming sessions to generate innovative concepts and visual representations that would resonate with the forum's stakeholders.
Once we established a direction, I we moved on to the development of brand assets, ensuring that they reflected the forum's values and communicated its mission effectively. This involved refining logo designs, selecting color palettes, and choosing typography that conveyed professionalism and modernity. Collaboration with graphic designers, copywriters, and marketing specialists was essential to ensure cohesion across all elements of the rebrand.
Throughout the process, open communication and feedback was my go to, fostering a creative environment where ideas could flourish. As designs took shape, we presented to stakeholders, incorporating their input to refine and finalize the branding elements. Attention to detail was paramount, as we meticulously crafted brand guidelines to maintain consistency in all future communications.
With the rebranding completed, my role shifted to overseeing its implementation across all event campaign materials. This involved coordinating with vendors, printers, and digital platforms to ensure a seamless transition. Regular checkpoints were established to assess progress and address any challenges that arose.
In the end, our efforts culminated in a refreshed identity that not only captured the spirit of the UN Client Energy Forum but also positioned it for continued success in the ever-evolving landscape of energy discourse. Through effective leadership and collaboration, we transformed a vision into reality, leaving a lasting impression on both the forum's attendees and the wider energy community.
I was commissioned to design a new identity for Nordic Bike Shows, an annual event located in Denmark that serves as a hub for the country's vibrant bicycle industry. The event brings together enthusiasts, professionals, and businesses alike, showcasing the latest innovations, trends, and products in the cycling world. With a focus on promoting sustainability, health, and active lifestyles, the Nordic Bike Shows event attracts a diverse audience passionate about all things cycling. The new identity I developed thus aimed to capture the dynamic energy while emphasizing the opportunities for networking within Denmark's bicycle industry. Through bold visuals, vibrant colors, and modern design elements, the identity reflected the spirit of innovation and community that defines Nordic Bike Shows.
Freelance Photography: Kiplinger's Magazine
As a freelance photographer for Kiplinger magazine, I had the exciting opportunity to contribute to their annual mutual funds and retirement issue by capturing on-location portraits. One particular assignment stands out as a memorable adventure taking me to South Dakota to capture subjects in unconventional locations reflecting the magazine's commitment to authentic storytelling and capturing the essence of each individual's story. My work was featured as two-page spreads and full page imagery.
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