Hey, what's good, fam?
Today, I gotta share something special with you. A chapter of my life that's all about creative exploration, exhilaration, and gratitude. We're talkin' about the Super Rugby final, a moment that took my creativity to new heights and something I'll remember forever.
When I started out on this journey as a videographer, a photographer, a content creator, I never thought I'd be amongst the exhilaration and intensity of the Super Rugby final in Hamilton, New Zealand. The clash between the Waikato Chiefs and the Canterbury Crusaders. But there I was capturing moments at one of the biggest sporting events in NZ. In this blog post, I want to take you on a journey through my lens as I attempted to encapsulate the spirit of this thrilling event.
I had two tasks which they entrusted me with. The first was to create a one-minute hype video to be played on the big screen within the stadium to kick off things off. This was both an honour and a nerve-wracking experience. The video would set the tone for the entire stadium, igniting the crowd's excitement and anticipation. I knew I had to craft a piece that would captivate the hearts of the fans and create an electric atmosphere. With excitement running through me, I set out to create a visual piece that would resonate with every spectator.
Before I begin the edit I like to select a song, this helps me visualise how the video will pace and look. So I thought, to get everyone excited and a song that would cater to all audiences and demographics 'We Will Rock You' by Queen could be the one. An anthem which I envisioned feet stomping, crowd cheering and everyone singing along.
But then it was suggested to me to go something a bit more recent, upbeat, more electronic dance to get the crowd out of their seats and get them moving. So I went with 'Move Your Body' by Ownboss, Sevek. When I was walking around the field before kick off, I could hear a song playing which sounded familiar. I look up and there on the big screen was my video! It was a crazy and surreal moment.
The other task and one of the highlights of my role was photographing the crowd as they arrived at the stadium. Witnessing the sea of supporters decked out in their team colours, face paint, and jerseys was a sight to behold. The energy in the air was electric, and you could sense the unwavering dedication and passion of the fans, especially the home crowd.
As I clicked away, I really wanted to encapsulate the anticipation and excitement etched across their faces. The families coming together waving their team flags, ladies dressed in wigs to match their favourite team colours, lads on a boys experience yelling out the team mottos, kids getting their face painted and so much more. I couldn't help but smile and be full of energy as I was racing around the stadium capturing these precious moments before they disappeared into their seats.
Once the game began, my focus shifted to the stands, where the energy hit a whole new level. As I was walking around the edges of the field I could see the crowd erupted with every try, tackle, and bone-crushing hit. The symphony of cheers, chants, and roars echoed through the stadium, creating an electrifying atmosphere that surrounded both players and spectators alike.
It was a challenge to freeze these moments in time, to capture the passion and raw emotion that unfolded before me. Yet, with each click of the shutter, I knew I was preserving memories that would be cherished for years to come.
Then it came to the on field medal presentations. I was lined up right next to other 'professional photographers', the likes of the Gettys, Photosport, Sky Sports and others. It felt like I was in a movie. I've watched this moment happen so many times on tv, I never in my wildest dreams thought I'd be amongst it all and I was just waiting for someone to come and tap me on the shoulder and ask me to get out of the way. But it never happened.
As they presented the trophy and the confetti shot into the air I had a massive smile across my face while my camera fired off frantically, capturing the moment. It was unreal!
Now, as I sit here and reflect on this journey, I can't help but feel a deep sense of gratitude. Grateful for the opportunity to be part of something so monumental, grateful for the trust placed in me as a content creator and photographer. Yet, there was also a touch of anxiety, a desire to do justice to the magnitude of the event. To push the boundaries of my craft, and to inspire others with my work.
The Super Rugby final in Hamilton was an unforgettable experience that tested my skills as a photographer and content creator. From crafting the hype video to capturing the essence of the crowd's energy, it was a whirlwind of emotions and an incredible opportunity to document such a prestige sporting event.
My tip for anyone waiting to be in this position is to create, every day so you're ready when you get the call up. Put your content out there, on your social channels, anywhere that you're able to. When it's good enough, the right people will see it and come knocking.
Until next time, fam.
With gratitude and creativity
We go again
Stacy x