Curtis Institute of Music
Studio and Event Photography for Curtis Institute of Music
This studio and event photography project captures the Curtis Institute of Music, a premier conservatory based in Philadelphia. The images and videos created for their marketing team needed to convey a clean, classical feel while reflecting the discipline and artistry of the students.
Studio Photography Approach
The goal was to create a series of portraits that present Curtis students in a professional and refined light. At the same time, the imagery needed to reflect the classical identity of the institution.
To achieve this, I worked closely with my assistant Erin to create a relaxed and collaborative atmosphere. Although the studio lighting setup was elaborate, it remained focused and efficient. As a result, students felt comfortable, especially given their experience performing on stage.
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- Benoit Gauthier, conductor
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- Benoit Gauthier, conductor
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- Benoit Gauthier, conductor
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- Christian Jeon, tuba player
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- Christian Jeon, tuba player
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- Christian Jeon, tuba player
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- Alexandra Cooreman, violinist
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- Alexandra Cooreman, violinist
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- Alexandra Cooreman, violinist
Event Photography in Performance Settings
Working across multiple studio setups and concert settings presented logistical challenges. Therefore, additional time and support were needed during shoot days, including bringing on an extra assistant.
To prepare, we collaborated on mood boards during pre-production meetings. In addition, my familiarity with many of the students reduced setup time and helped us move efficiently.
Ultimately, the studio portrait sessions were completed in just a day and a half. Meanwhile, performance coverage was captured alongside live events. The final collection delivers both polished studio work and dynamic event imagery, supporting Curtis Institute’s marketing and storytelling efforts.
Studio and Event Photography Production Process
Working across multiple studio setups and concert settings presented logistical challenges. Therefore, additional time and support were needed during shoot days, including bringing on an extra assistant.
To prepare, we collaborated on mood boards during pre-production meetings. In addition, my familiarity with many of the students helped reduce setup time and allowed us to move efficiently.
Ultimately, we completed the studio portrait sessions in just a day and a half. The final collection delivers both polished studio work and dynamic event coverage, supporting Curtis Institute’s marketing and storytelling efforts.
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- A student performs in a masterclass with Yuja Wang.
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- Yuja Wang leads a masterclass.
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- A student plays an organ during a recital at the end of a one-week organ intensive at Curtis.
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- Classical guitarist and Curtis alumna, Jiji, hugs her former professor after performing at the Kimmel Center.
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- Curtis symphony orchestra students take the stage at the Kimmel Center.
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- Curtis symphony orchestra students take the stage at the Kimmel Center.
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- Conducting fellow, Benoit Gauthier, leads the Curtis Symphony Orchestra at the Kimmel Center.
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- Classical guitarist, Jiji, performs with Curtis Symphony Orchestra at the Kimmel Center.
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- Vocalists at the Curtis Institute of Music rehearse for an upcoming performance. | Photographed for Curtis on Tour
