Class allows students to simulate professional photoshoots

The Production Photography class offered in Rochester Institute of Technology’s School of Photographic Arts and Sciences (SPAS) introduces students to the storytelling side of photographic illustration. 

Led by senior lecturer Clay Patrick McBride, the course teaches the skills, concepts, preparation and teamwork required to successfully fulfill production-level photoshoots. For projects, students work in teams to simulate the professional production environment, McBride said.

This year’s final project, titled “La Famiglia,” highlighted the powerful community that guides SPAS. 

Students worked together in RIT’s stunning Northlight Studio to create a composite image that showcases SPAS’ close-knit faculty and staff. The subjects were photographed in small groups, with all of the photos then combining to make one cohesive image. Students also went on location to capture the final photo’s background, taken at Ox and Stone restaurant in downtown Rochester.

McBride said other assignments for the course include “recreating historical events, inventing futuristic scenes and creating believable period pieces — all with an emphasis on narrative solutions.”

Below are testimonials from students in this semester’s class, in addition to a behind-the-scenes video of the final project. 

Ellie Hughes, advertising photography 

"This final project for me is really what RIT and SPAS is all about: an all-hands-on-deck experience focused on teamwork, real career scenarios and a supportive community. I’m proud to have been part of this project and helped document the RIT family that I am so thankful for.” 

Candice Grimes Purtee, advertising photography

"The No. 1 thing I discovered from Production Photography was the depth of my own abilities. I learned I can make things happen in a short amount of time and work with others well. It connected my management/people skills with my artistry. It showed me where I fit in, in this industry. I also learned the importance of working together as a team and bringing together others’ skills to produce the best result." 

Joel Beckwith, visual media

“Production Photography has probably been the most valuable class I’ve taken at photo school so far. The skills I’ve learned through working in a team will definitely influence my future work and motivate me to hold myself to a higher standard.”

Jaemi Rowe, advertising photography

"Production Photography is a class that perfectly exemplifies why I enrolled to study photography. It taught me that there is so much more to a photo shoot than bringing a camera to set. For the final I got the chance to take on the role in the industry that I hope to professionally pursue. Working with such a great team, where everyone had a role that they committed to, was an exceptional experience that led me to be a part of the project that I am most proud of to date." 

Nina Salerno, advertising photography

“This class taught me so much about what it means to be a part of a team and doing whatever it takes to make it work. It helped me become more comfortable and confident as a photographer, as well as take on other roles like producer and re-toucher. I am truly grateful to have worked with all the talented artists in my class.”