The Vision

My work with Tangerine Paddle started with a spec shoot where I offered to shoot for trade in hopes that if they were satisfied with the images, we could collaborate on future projects. Thankfully, after that spec shoot, the CEO was interested in hopping on a call to review the gallery and explore future work together. During our conversation, I asked about their target audience, learning that their main buyers were middle-aged women (45+), with a smaller male customer base. Their Instagram feed was also predominantly female-focused, so we decided it would be a smart idea to bring in some age and gender diversity in terms of the models to help Tangerine's prospective customers envision themselves with the paddles. So... we booked a paid shoot and the results were better than expected.

Two athletes resting on bench with colorful pickleball paddles and gym bags by palm trees.
Person in coral activewear playing paddle ball on outdoor court.
Athletic couple in matching blue activewear holding colorful pickleball paddles on an outdoor court.

The Planning

To kick things off, I did model scouting, location planning, and athletic clothing brand partnerships in accordance with the CEO's budget she mentioned they allocated for this shoot. I organized a call to present a variety of models to the CEO that align with her target market. I recommended adding more diversity in the shoot to showcase a broader range of customers. The CEO was enthusiastic and sent me 12 paddles, 2 bags, and a mood board for poses, which I would creatively interpret for the shoot. In preparation, I pulled together all the necessary elements, including securing a content creator and an assistant to help. I incorporated my creative expertise while keeping the brand’s vision front and center, using some of their pre-existing photos for inspiration but also adding my own unique spin.

Athlete in royal blue workout set resting on bench with striped pickleball paddle and gym bag.
Three athletes in sporty outfits holding colorful pickleball paddles pose on outdoor court with palm trees.
Close-up of blue and white striped tote bag being organized on outdoor bench.
Two people in athletic wear walking on an outdoor tennis court holding paddles.

The Execution

On the day of the shoot, everything and everyone worked together seamlessly. The props and models, combined with the mood board, allowed for both structured and organic moments during the session. The CEO had provided the equipment needed, and the chosen location perfectly suited the vibe we wanted to create. In addition, I was also working with another brand, LSKD, who had provided a large amount of activewear for the shoot. I organized all the clothes and ensured everything was styled to align with both brands' aesthetic vision. The collaboration with LSKD went incredibly well, and I look forward to working with them again for future releases. Working with 2 brands is a win,win,win scenario and I try to do that whenever possible on sets. Each brand gets plenty of exposure from the models, team on set, myself, and the other brand's social media accounts and we all grow our professional relationships.

Athletes playing pickleball on outdoor court surrounded by palm trees.

The outcome

The final images exceeded expectations, perfectly combining the brand’s current aesthetic with the fresh, diverse concepts I was able to introduce. Each shot captured a balance between the brand's signature style and the new creative direction, elevating the overall visual appeal. I'm thrilled with how the final gallery reflects both innovation and consistency, offering something familiar yet refreshingly different for the audience.

Athlete in light blue tank top sitting with striped pickleball paddle against white wall.
Athletes with pickleball paddles posing on brick steps with palm trees in background.
Athlete in green leggings playing pickleball on outdoor court with palm trees.
Group of athletes posing with pickleball paddles on brick steps under palm trees.
Athletes practicing pickleball on an outdoor court with palm trees in the background.
Person in teal athletic wear sitting on court with striped paddle and white sneakers.
Athletic person in light colored tank top and shorts playing on outdoor tennis court.

BRand Recognition

Tangerine brand athletic wear advertisement with palm trees in background.
Colorful striped paddle and bag accessories displayed against neutral background.
Athletes playing pickleball on outdoor court with palm trees.
Athletes carrying pickleball gear while walking past chain link fence.
Athletic wear model poses with pickleball paddle against tropical palm tree background.
Close-up of colorful beach tennis paddles with floral and striped designs against blurred outdoor background.
Collection of colorful beach paddle product photos arranged in grid layout.