So Much More

Baybeblue had always dreamed of starring in a music video. Her mother, Cyndy, said “She enjoys watching music videos on YouTube and swaying to the rhythm. The healing properties of music bring her joy.”

One artist Blue felt particularly connected to was Candice Russell, who had also experienced challenges with her health. When Blue first met Candice, a contestant on season 11 of American Idol, it was an instant connection.

The agency I was at, Visual Aid, was approached by Make-A-Wish Oregon. There was no hesitation. We got to work right away crafting a story that could accommodate Blue and help her shine bright!

The story was a collaboration working with James Allen, executive director of Visual Aid. We had to schedule around other client work in progress, Blue’s schedule, the weather, and availability of shooting locations. The final scene, shot at Washington Park, was the result of weeks of effort spreading the word, calling for extras, and enlisting the help of additional crew.

Blue taught me that it’s more rewarding to have one person watch a video a million times than to have a million people watch a video one time.

Client
Make-A-Wish Oregon

Agency
Visual Aid

My roles
Story Development
Volunteer Coordination
Cinematography
Post-Production

Creative Contributors
James Allen — co-producer, cinematography
Ryan Stiles — cinematography
Jonny Long — aerial cinematography
Casey Currey-Wilson — editing

What went well
Blue loved the video and watched it several times every day. Can’t get better feedback than that!

Make-A-Wish said it was one of the most creative projects they’ve seen.

What I learned
Ask for more help. Especially when you share a vision, it inspires others to contribute what they can.

If you want 200 extras to show up, try to get 400.

To be grateful for the things I take for granted.